Is there anything bolder than poaching the top employee of your direct competitor? It is like stealing someone from their partner. Aside from the potential controversy in the industry, you may be subject to lawsuits. But, you can remain in the shadows while pursuing your ultimate goal.

Amidst the great resignation, companies are becoming desperate to keep their prized employees. So if you move too soon, you might come to your office with a summons on your table. That is why you have to be more careful as you come closer to your target. Below are some great tips for doing it in your most subtle way.

Check First If They Are the Real Deal

You don’t want to absorb someone else’s trouble. This is why executive recruitment agencies do background checks on their target employees. Even if their current roles match the job you want to offer, they may not be what you are looking for. Chances are, they are not what they seem since CVs do not tell how employees do their job.

Watch cultural differences closely, especially if they are from another state or country. Company culture matters if they have been working there for an extended period. Assess if they can get accustomed to your company’s shared goals and values. If that is so, then you may have found gold.

Be Subtle About Your Intentions

The art of courtship and seduction does not only apply to lovers. If you think you have found the right employee for your company, slowly approach him. Do it as subtle as you can. Tempt him with your compensation package, company culture, and other perks.

You still have to keep your distance, though. Show your intent to get him, but avoid looking too desperate. With that, you can convey that you want to hire them, and it can be a loss for him if he refuses. This subtlety can help you negotiate with them.

Beware of Legal Consequences

Companies need an employee to sign a non-compete agreement upon hiring. As such, they cannot work for a direct competitor immediately after their resignation. So before you let them jump ship, review first the legal consequences you might face. Are the ones you are eyeing worth the legal trouble?

Even so, you can avoid litigations or at least reduce your competitor’s claim. Once the employee tenders their resignation, allot a short interval before hiring them.

Except for personal items, all their things must be left or returned to the former employer. Do not take chances even if the materials are from their clients in their previous work. With that, you can limit their claim and capacity to sue you.

Sure, employee poaching can be illegal. But what can you do if they are perfect for the role? It is part of the competition and fine at some point.

Tap Into Their Egos

In the corporate world, a professional wants recognition. Going into his resume and commending his achievements can boost his ego. Show why you think he is a great addition to the company and fit your shared goals.

Yes, it sounds cliché, but it still works, especially for those looking for the big thing in their employers. You can use your competitor’s shortcomings and your target’s disappointment to lure him. But as mentioned before, do it as subtly as you can.

Inspire Them

You may inspire an employee by sharing your incredible adventures in the company. It includes your struggles and how the company helped you overcome them. You may also tell how you started from scratch before rising on the corporate ladder. Competitive compensation, promotion, and inspiring experiences are some common yet effective ways.

Take Care of Your Current Employees

Believe that retaliation also happens on a company level. Competitors might do the same by stealing your prized employees. Indeed, you do not want to lose your prized employee in exchange for your target.

Given this, you have to show that you value your employees. Treat them well so your competitors cannot find loopholes. Small perks can boost their morale and loyalty to your company.

The competition is tight across all industries. That is why it is unacceptable to see employees being stolen by competitors. Someone once said that the world would never be fair, so you must learn to play dirty at times. It may look unethical, but some circumstances need you to breach your limits. In the same way, poaching employees is intriguing but getting to be acceptable.