Job Postings, Pina Coladas, and Getting Caught in the Rain

What can hiring athletic trainers learn from the 1970's song "Escape (The Pina Colada Song)" by Rupert Holmes?

Addressing the Lyrical Message

The lyrics to Escape tells the story of two lovers. The opening verse introduces a male narrator who is, quite frankly, bored with his current relationship.

Amid his restlessness, the narrator responds to a newspaper ad. The author of the ad is very specific about what they are looking for in a partner and new lover. We find out in the chorus that the ad author is looking for someone spontaneous with an affinity for a particular tropical drink.

The man responds to the ad and meets up with the anonymous lady at a bar. There he discovers that the mysterious lady was, in fact, his partner whom he was bored with at the beginning of the song. Thus, the meaning behind these lyrics becomes quite redemptive. The two characters learn that they actually have more in common than they thought. Then they seemingly begin to learn to love each other all over again.

"If you like Piña Coladas, and getting caught in the rain

If you're not into yoga, if you have half a brain

If you like making love at midnight, in the dunes of the cape

I'm the love that you've looked for, write to me, and escape"

HR may have troubles if your AT job posting is this direct, but the point is that in the song the partner was advertising exactly what they are looking for in the other person. No generic descriptions, honest communication and transparency on what attributes they desired in the partner they were searching for.

To address if job postings are possibly being selfish/one-sided, the candidate search is about creating a relationship, a posting should signal/speak to both parties. The reason that the song lyrics resonated with the narrator is that it was advertised directly to him... "do you like..." the advertisement spoke to his persons interests, leading him to respond to the posting.

Musical Engagement of Both Parties

Here’s how the song's themes can be applied to crafting better job postings and fostering a more balanced and engaging recruitment process:

1. Be Specific and Transparent

Clarity in Expectations: In the song, the ad is highly specific about what the author is looking for in a partner. Similarly, job postings should clearly outline the specific skills, qualifications, and attributes required for the position. This helps attract candidates who are genuinely suited for the role, reducing misunderstandings and mismatched expectations.

2. Speak to the Candidate’s Interests

Targeted Messaging: The song’s ad speaks directly to the narrator’s interests and desires, which prompts him to respond. Job postings should be crafted to appeal to the interests and motivations of potential candidates. Highlight aspects of the job and organization that align with what candidates value, such as opportunities for professional development, work-life balance, or a supportive team environment.

3. Create a Mutual Appeal

Two-Way Communication: Just as the song’s ad addresses what the author is seeking while simultaneously appealing to the narrator’s interests, job postings should convey what the organization is looking for and what it offers. This creates a more balanced and attractive proposition for potential hires. Ensure the posting reflects both the needs of the organization and the benefits and opportunities available to the candidate.

4. Showcase Authenticity

Genuine Representation: The song’s characters find renewed appreciation for each other by discovering shared interests and desires. Job postings should authentically represent the work environment and organizational culture. Transparency about the job’s realities and the company’s values helps build trust and attracts candidates who genuinely align with those aspects.

5. Encourage Engagement

Interactive Elements: The direct and engaging nature of the song’s ad makes it memorable. Similarly, job postings should be engaging and inviting. Consider incorporating elements that encourage interaction, such as a call-to-action for candidates to share their own experiences or motivations in relation to the role.

6. Address Potential Misconceptions

Preemptive Clarity: The song’s twist reveals that the partner was actually more compatible than initially thought. Job postings can address common misconceptions or concerns about the role or organization. By clarifying aspects of the job that might be misunderstood or overlooked, you can attract candidates who are truly a good fit.

7. Foster a Relationship-Oriented Approach

Building Connections: The song’s narrative highlights the importance of finding common ground and rediscovering connections. Job postings should focus on building a relationship with potential candidates by emphasizing how the role and organization support personal and professional growth, and how they align with the candidates’ career goals.

8. Highlight Benefits and Unique Selling Points

Showcase Unique Aspects: The song’s ad stands out because it highlights unique attributes of the author’s ideal partner. Similarly, job postings should emphasize what makes the position and organization unique, such as special projects, team culture, or unique benefits, to attract top talent.

9. Avoid Generic Descriptions

Personalization: The specificity of the song’s ad makes it memorable and relevant. Avoid using generic job descriptions in postings. Instead, be specific about what makes the job and company unique, and how candidates’ individual skills and experiences will be valued and utilized.

10. Create a Sense of Excitement

Engage Emotionally: The song creates a sense of excitement and curiosity through its narrative and twist. Job postings should aim to create excitement about the role by describing how the job will challenge candidates, contribute to their growth, and how they will be part of a dynamic and supportive team.

In summary, hiring athletic trainers can learn from "Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" by focusing on specificity, clarity, and authenticity in job postings. By creating content that resonates with candidates, reflects mutual benefits, and engages potential hires, organizations can attract the right talent and foster a more effective recruitment process.