6 tips for government agencies who want to hire students and other early career candidates for education roles

In the quest to attract the brightest minds to education roles, we’ve gathered insights from founders and presidents among other experts. From highlighting impactful education roles to showcasing growth, discover the top six pieces of advice for government agencies looking to recruit college students, recent graduates, and others early in their careers.

• Highlight Impactful Education Roles
• Build University Partnerships
• Offer Robust Mentorship Programs
• Create Hands-On Internship Opportunities
• Emphasize Educators’ Societal Influence
• Showcase Growth and Impact Opportunities

Highlight Impactful Education Roles

As a founder with 12 years of experience in the migration and education industry, I would advise large governmental agencies looking to recruit college students and recent graduates for education jobs to focus on emphasizing the meaningful impact of these roles. In my experience at KBA Global, we’ve found that young professionals are increasingly driven by a desire to make a positive difference in the world.

To attract this demographic, agencies should highlight how education jobs contribute to shaping the future of society and improving individual lives. They could showcase specific programs or initiatives that have tangible benefits for students and communities. For instance, we often emphasize how our work in international education fosters cross-cultural understanding and personal growth.

Additionally, agencies should consider offering structured mentorship programs and clear career progression paths. We’ve observed that recent graduates are often looking for opportunities to learn and grow professionally. By demonstrating a commitment to their development, agencies can position themselves as attractive long-term career options.

Lastly, leveraging digital platforms and social media to communicate these opportunities and showcase the agency’s culture can significantly boost engagement with this tech-savvy generation. We’ve found that a strong online presence helps us connect effectively with young talent interested in education and migration careers.

Shambhu Kadel, Founder, KBA Global

Build University Partnerships

One piece of advice I’d give to such a government agency is to build strong partnerships with universities and colleges. Establishing relationships with academic institutions allows for direct engagement with students through career fairs, workshops, and guest lectures. It’s important to create internship and mentorship programs that provide real-world experience and a clear pathway to full-time employment. 

Additionally, showcasing the benefits and career growth opportunities within the agency can attract top talent. Highlighting stories of young professionals who have thrived in the agency can make the roles more relatable and appealing.

Jaswant Singh, Owner, Acadlog Private Limited

Offer Robust Mentorship Programs

One piece of advice I would give to a large governmental agency looking to recruit college students and recent graduates for jobs in education is to create a robust mentorship and professional development program.

Young professionals are often looking for opportunities where they can grow and advance their careers, so offering structured mentorship and ongoing training can be a significant draw. Highlighting these opportunities in your recruitment materials and during campus visits can show potential recruits that you are invested in their long-term success.

Additionally, leveraging current young educators to share their positive experiences and growth within the agency can make your organization more appealing. By focusing on career development, you can attract motivated individuals who are eager to make a meaningful impact in education.

Grant Aldrich, Founder & CEO, OnlineDegree.com 

Create Hands-On Internship Opportunities

I believe one crucial piece of advice is to focus on creating meaningful internship and mentorship programs. These programs should offer students hands-on experience in the field, exposure to various roles within the education sector, and guidance from experienced professionals. By providing valuable, real-world experience and fostering connections between current employees and potential recruits, the agency can attract top talent and give students a clear path to full-time employment after graduation.

Go where Gen Z and Millennials are. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok to showcase your agency’s investment in these mentorship programs, share success stories of young educators, and post informative content about career opportunities. This interactive approach allows students to connect with your mission and explore available positions.

Shawn Boehme, Director of Sales, PanTerra Networks

Emphasize Educators’ Societal Influence

Emphasize the immense impact they can have on shaping the future. Make it clear that by choosing a career in education, they are not just taking a job but committing to a lifelong journey that will influence and inspire the next generation. Highlight the unique opportunity to mold young minds, promote innovation, and leave a lasting legacy. This sense of purpose and fulfillment sets a career in education apart. Graduates are seeking meaningful and fulfilling work, and by showcasing the vital role they can play, you will attract top talent to your agency.

As someone who has been in education for years, I know firsthand the educators’ significant impact on society. It is a noble and rewarding profession that has revolutionized my life and countless others. By emphasizing this aspect, your agency can be an attractive employer to young professionals. Remember, it’s not just about finding a job; it’s about making a difference.

Meg Tibayan, Co-Founder, Bright Sprouts

Showcase Growth and Impact Opportunities

Based on my experience, I’d advise governmental agencies to highlight the opportunity for impact and growth in education roles. Emphasize the chance to shape young minds and contribute to the future. Additionally, offer mentorship programs and professional development opportunities tailored to aspiring educators. By showcasing the importance of education in building strong communities and providing avenues for career advancement, agencies can attract top talent passionate about making a difference in students’ lives.

Josh Ladick, President, GSA Focus