In an ideal job market, you’d have qualified candidates lining up around the block for the chance to work at your company. Instead, the majority of Hawaii employers are facing the exact opposite: a limited supply of applicants with the right skills, experience, and personality.

And when someone qualified does come around, that person generally has a couple of job offers already on the table. This means employers are faced with the challenge of staying competitive and winning over the most qualified candidates.

The good news is that candidates today want more than just a huge paycheck (though a fair salary certainly plays an important role in a job offer decision). Jobseekers also want to know what a company can provide in terms of things like career development opportunities, company culture, and office environment.

Here are four ways your company can win over top talent.

Ask what motivates the candidate.
Every candidate will have a unique set of needs, so what they’re looking to gain out of the position. Don’t beat around the bush. Ask questions like, “What are you looking for in a company that you don’t currently have?” or “What are your most important criteria when choosing your next role?” Once you better understand what the candidate is seeking in an employer or position, you have the opportunity to discuss and reinforce how your company can meet those needs.

Emphasize purpose.
Candidates want to walk into a position fully understanding not only what they will be doing, but why and how it will make a difference. Clearly outline the purpose of the position and discuss advancement opportunities as well as any anticipated challenges. Highlight what’s meaningful about the position and how the company as a whole is making a difference in the community or within the industry. Being completely transparent in this way is a great strategy for building trust between your company and the candidate.

Work together as a team.
Don’t make the mistake of adopting an “us” versus “you”attitude with the candidate. Instead, treat your applicant as an equal and view the process as a “negotiation.” This provides the candidate with a feel for what it’s like to work as part of your team and makes them feel wanted and valued.

Give the candidate time.
At the end of the day, you want to hire someone who wants to work for your company. Accepting a job offer is a big decision, so allow the candidate enough time to make the right decision. Pressuring the candidates for an immediate answer won’t sit well, and chances are, he/she will decided to go somewhere else.

Remaining competitive in today’s job market takes work. By catering your recruitment strategy to the individual needs of each candidate, you’ll be better equipped to win over the top talent you need.