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28 experts on the importance of employer branding in 2025

In today’s fiercely competitive job market, employer branding has transformed from a “nice-to-have” to a necessity. As we step into 2025, organizations are realizing that their reputation as an employer profoundly influences their ability to attract and retain top talent.

To shed light on this, we asked 28 thought leaders in various industries one simple question: “Why is employer branding important to your organization?”

Their responses reveal actionable insights and compelling reasons for creating a robust employer branding strategy. This isn’t just an advantage, it’s an essential.

From establishing company values to nurturing employee advocates, discover how these experts are leveraging employer branding to shape their organizations’ future.

Employer Branding Attracts and Develops Talent

When you work with a marketing agency like us, your work is only as good as the talent, imagination and drive of the people that work for you.

Hires should feel that Ignite Digital is a company where they will be valued, where they can do work worth doing, and where their advancement is taken seriously. Employer branding isn’t just about recruitment but also making our current team feel more proud and purposeful. Everyone wants to feel like the company they work for treats them like people, not roles to fill.”

A Strong Brand Boosts Retention and Engagement

In my experience, a strong employer brand not only draws skilled professionals but also boosts employee retention and engagement. When people feel proud of where they work, they are more motivated and productive, creating a positive cycle of performance and satisfaction.

For example, I once worked with a company struggling to attract top-tier talent in a competitive market. We focused on building their employer brand by showcasing their values, unique work culture, and employee success stories through social media and targeted campaigns. Within months, they saw a 40% increase in applications from highly qualified candidates, and employee turnover dropped significantly. This taught me that investing in your employer brand isn’t just about recruitment—it’s about creating a workplace people want to stay in and thrive.

Showcase Values to Build Credibility with Customers

Employer branding for us is an extension of who we are – proving to future employees and customers that what we do is in line with our purpose. People who care about what we’re building are a lot more inclined to join us and help us innovate.

Employer branding likewise gives us credibility with our customers, many of whom value sustainability and ethical business models. The more we bring awareness of our values in hiring, the more it aligns with the mission we deliver to our customers via our products and services.

Customers want to know they’re working with a company that values its employees and is doing some real good. Meanwhile, those who are searching for a meaningful career see Superbee as a way to become part of something bigger.
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Antoinette Jackson, Creative Director & Founder, SuperBee.

Employer Branding is Your Company's DNA

Employer branding is like your company’s DNA. It determines what kind of team you’ll grow. I know our best asset isn’t our supplies or systems. It’s our people. Building our reputation as a standout employer has been my number one priority. This has been true since day one.

When team members see real chances to grow with us, they feel truly valued. This shows in their work. We’re not just another cleaning company to work for. We’re a place where hardworking people can build a real career. They can take pride in what they do.

When people ask me why employer branding matters, I keep it simple. Happy, respected employees create happy, loyal customers. That’s not just good business sense. It’s how we’ve built our company into what it is today.

Employees Stick Around When They Believe in Your Values

Employer branding is crucial because it’s how we attract and keep great people. For example, when we share stories about our team culture-like celebrating small wins or how we support work-life balance-it shows potential hires what makes us different.

It’s not just about hiring; it helps with retention too. One of our employees told me they stayed through a tough period because they felt valued and aligned with our values, which we always promote in our branding. Simply put, a strong employer brand makes people want to join and stick around because they believe in what we stand for.

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Adnan Jiwani, Assistant Manager Digital Marketing, PureVPN.

A Flywheel of Positive Interactions

Our strong employer brand enhances employee participation in company-led speaking activities. Representing a well-known organization boosts the success of their presentations. Many of our openings are filled through word of mouth, thanks to this reputation.

We have financial, coding, and marketing experts who speak at conferences. For them, the motivation is clear: association with a big brand brings exposure, connections, and personal growth. At the same time, they promote our employer brand. It’s a flywheel of positive interactions – a win-win for both the company and our employees.

Share Real Employee Experiences for Authenticity

Employer branding plays a huge role in attracting and keeping the right talent. People want more than just perks; they want to know how challenges are tackled, how leadership supports growth, and what the work environment feels like.

One effective approach is sharing real employee experiences. Encouraging team members to talk about their work on LinkedIn or at industry events gives potential hires a genuine look inside the culture. It’s not about promoting; it’s about being transparent. It also helps to ensure the external brand matches the internal reality. If flexibility and growth are promoted, they need to be delivered. Authenticity matters. When branding reflects what happens, the right people are drawn in and they’re more likely to stay. Real, honest employer branding builds trust and creates a workplace where people can thrive long-term.
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Vikrant Bhalodia, Head of Marketing & People Ops, WeblineIndia.

Personal Relationships Key for Small Business Success

Employer branding is especially crucial for small businesses like mine. It’s not easy to compete with the big guys’ specialization and integration. We’re not a bureaucracy with thousands of employees and hundreds of contracts. Our agency is one where personal relationships still matter. Conveying this quickly and on-the-spot is key to our success. A strong brand makes it possible.

Employer Brand Defines Identity and Attracts Talent

Employer branding is what defines your organization’s identity and sets it apart in the competitive job market. It’s how potential candidates perceive your company and decide if they want to be part of it. For a SaaS business like mine, where innovation and trust are fundamental, employer branding directly impacts our ability to attract top-tier talent who align with our mission.

Employees amplify the culture and values of an organization, making employer branding critical to fostering a team that champions our goals. At Omniconvert, showcasing our unique approach to collaboration, customer-centricity, and growth has allowed us to build a team that shares our vision and passion, ensuring long-term success.
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Valentin Radu, CEO & Founder, Blogger, Speaker, Podcaster, Omniconvert.

Essential for Recruitment Agency Success

From our perspective as a recruiting agency, employer branding is critical to make sure we’re attracting the right people on both the candidate and the client side, and that we’re able to stand out from the competition. There are a lot of recruitment firms out there, and having a unique value proposition is absolutely critical for success in this industry. This isn’t only about visibility but also necessary to win candidate and client trust.

At its heart, recruitment is a business of relationships, so building that foundation of trust through our branding gives us a head start on developing those relationships. Candidates are much more likely to want to work with a recruiting firm that has a positive employer brand because they trust us to care about their needs as a job seeker, not just to treat them like a warm body to fill our clients’ roles. On the other side, our success as employers is a positive sign for clients, who will be more likely to see us as a trustworthy partner for their talent needs if we’re able to effectively build, manage, and retain our own team.

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David Case, President, Advastar.

Standing Out in a Competitive Market

Employer branding is crucial to our organization because it helps us attract and retain top talent while fostering a strong sense of pride among our employees. A well-defined employer brand showcases our values, work culture, and opportunities for growth, making us stand out in a competitive job market.

For example, our emphasis on flexibility, remote work, and career growth has resonated with both current employees and potential hires, many of whom cite these aspects as deciding factors for joining our team. By authentically communicating what makes our workplace unique, we not only draw in talent that aligns with our values but also create a culture of loyalty and engagement, ensuring long-term success.

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Sergiy Fitsak, Managing Director, Fintech Expert, Softjourn.

Sharing Success Stories Attracts Skilled Professionals

At Edumentors, employer branding is vital because it helps us attract and retain top talent aligned with our mission to connect students with elite tutors. A strong employer brand showcases our values of excellence, integrity, and innovation and creates a workplace culture where employees feel valued and motivated. 

For instance, highlighting our growth journey and success stories has helped us secure skilled professionals who are passionate about education. A positive brand not only draws the right talent but also boosts team morale, ensuring we deliver exceptional experiences to our students.

Demonstrate Company Culture Externally and Internally

My advice is to anchor your brand in authentic, consistent messaging and a culture you’re proud to uphold. That’s what keeps great talent inspired and engaged long-term. As a B2B SaaS company, we’ve always recognized that the people behind our product are the key to our success. From the very beginning, we decided what kind of company we wanted to be-a place that prioritizes transparency, innovation, and responsibility. These values form the backbone of our culture and remain non-negotiable as we grow. Employer branding is how we ensure this culture resonates externally while staying true internally.

For example, we use our team book not just as a guide for employees but as a statement of who we are as a company. It reflects our commitment to providing an environment where people can thrive, take ownership of their work, and develop personally and professionally. We also focus on showcasing stories of collaboration and meaningful contributions from our team, highlighting how our values play out in real scenarios. This approach builds trust and attracts like-minded professionals who share our vision.
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Kinga Fodor, Head of Marketing, PatentRenewal.com.

An Employer Brand Shapes How People Perceive You

Employer branding is like your company’s personality – it’s what people think and feel about working for you. And let’s be honest, in today’s world, it’s a pretty big deal. Why? Because attracting and keeping great talent isn’t just about offering competitive pay or fancy perks anymore. It’s about the story your company tells and the experience you create for employees, both current and future.

Think about this: when someone hears your company’s name, what comes to mind? Is it a place where people love their work, feel supported, and grow? Or is it somewhere people avoid because they’ve heard, “It’s all work, no balance”? That’s the power of employer branding – it shapes how people perceive you, even before they’ve stepped through the door.

From a hiring perspective, a strong employer brand is like a magnet for top talent. Candidates are smart – they’re checking your Glassdoor reviews, peeking at your social media, and talking to friends who might know someone in your company. They’re looking for more than just a paycheck; they want purpose, growth, and a workplace they’re excited to be part of. If your employer brand screams, “We care about our people, we value innovation, and we’re here to make a difference,” you’ll stand out in the crowded job market.

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Vishal Shah, Sr. Technical Consultant, WPWeb Infotech.

Transparency in Branding Attracts Right Talent

We have a huge value on employer branding for recruiting employees who fit our values and strategic objectives. If we’re transparent about who we are, what we believe in, and what kind of culture we’re building, it automatically attracts people who think the same.

We place an emphasis on sharing and development with teammates who have opportunities to contribute and develop their skills. Knowing this up front means we’re hiring those people who are good in that kind of setting, which saves time and builds more powerful teams from the start. The outcome is an engaged, connected, and truly motivated team that’s excited to win together.

Practically, a good employer brand helps us differentiate in an industry where the best talent has options. The financial industry is not always the most approachable or personal place, so telling stories about our team and culture helps candidates know what sets us apart.

A Strong Brand Attracts Top Freelancers

Employer branding is big for us because we work with fractional and freelance marketers who have tons of options. The best talent isn’t just looking for a paycheck—they’re looking for a gig with a solid reputation and a team they’re proud to be part of.

We’ve worked hard to position ourselves as the go-to agency for top-tier marketers, and it’s paid off. A strong employer brand helps us attract the best freelancers and keep them coming back. In the freelance world, reputation isn’t just important—it’s the whole game. If you want the best, you’ve got to be the best place to work.

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Justin Belmont, Founder & CEO, Prose.

Key for Attracting Creative Talent

Employer branding is all about getting the right people in. That means creative, driven people who love impactful storytelling through podcasts. A clear and compelling employer brand means potential hires know what it’s like to work with us – our values, culture, and commitment to innovation. This is key in a niche area like podcast production, where creativity and collaboration are crucial.

We create a filter to attract people who thrive in our world by showcasing what makes us unique. It’s not just about filling roles; it’s about finding people who align with our mission to create real, engaging audio content. With a strong brand, we don’t hire talent; we build a team that wants to grow with us and contribute to our shared vision.

Most Candidates Check Social Media

A strong employer brand helps build trust with job seekers by showing them the kind of workplace they can expect. Most candidates will check social media or the company’s website before applying, so focusing on what makes our culture special is essential.

Having a strong employer brand also saves time and money. When people are excited about working for a respected company, they’re more likely to apply without the need for excessive advertising. Employees sharing their positive experiences on social media makes a huge difference too.

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James Owen, Co-Founder & Director, Click Intelligence.

How active are your employees on social? Find out!

More Than Just Filling Roles

Employer branding is important because it helps us attract and keep talented people. In our business, we depend on skilled locksmiths and support staff to provide exceptional service, and building a reputation as a great place to work brings the right people through our doors. A strong employer brand conveys that the company cares about more than just filling roles. It shows potential hires that they will be part of a workplace where their growth is encouraged, their efforts are recognized, and their careers can thrive. 

When candidates see that we provide opportunities for professional development, whether through advanced training, mentorship programs, or clear paths for advancement, they are more inclined to see the company as a place where they can build a future. This helps us attract the best talent and ensures we retain them, reducing turnover and maintaining the consistency and quality of our services.

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Eli Itzhaki, CEO & Founder, Keyzoo.

Stronger Stakeholder Relationships

A robust employer brand is crucial for attracting and retaining talent, as well as shaping the overall workplace culture. It appeals to high-caliber candidates by effectively communicating the company’s values, culture, and employee experiences, which makes the organization more appealing to candidates who align with its mission. It also boosts employee engagement by fostering a positive, transparent work environment, and enhances retention by reinforcing loyalty and pride in the organization. In addition, a strong employer brand elevates the organization’s reputation, facilitating stronger relationships with stakeholders and lowering recruitment expenses since top candidates are more inclined to approach the company directly.

Finally, it encourages internal mobility by showcasing opportunities for career advancement and growth, prompting employees to pursue various roles within the organization. By aligning the employer brand with a focus on innovation, growth, and professional development, the company can create a compelling narrative that resonates with both prospective talent and current employees.
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Grant Smith, Global Recruitment Marketing Specialist.

An Investment in Our People and Our Future

Employer branding is crucial because it shapes how potential candidates, current employees, and even customers view our organization. It helps us attract talented individuals who align with our values and culture, ensuring we build a team that is motivated and dedicated to our mission. A strong employer brand fosters a sense of pride among employees, improving retention and engagement, which directly impacts productivity and overall success.

When people see us as an employer of choice, it strengthens trust and loyalty not just within the workforce but in the wider community as well. It’s about creating a positive reputation that reflects who we are and what we stand for. This, in turn, helps us stay competitive in the market while supporting long-term growth. Focusing on employer branding is an investment in our people and our future.
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Matt Earle, President, Reputation.ca.

Strong Brand Aligns Talent with Company Values

Employer branding is essential because it helps attract top talent who truly align with my company’s values and culture. 

A strong brand reputation positions my organization as an employer of choice, making it easier to engage and retain employees who are passionate about their work. It also builds pride within my existing team, turning them into enthusiastic advocates who share their positive experiences and attract like-minded professionals.

In a competitive job market, a well-crafted employer brand sets my company apart, streamlining the hiring process and reducing both costs and the time to fill positions.

Beyond recruitment, it strengthens trust and credibility with clients and partners, as they see a motivated, thriving workforce behind the business. Investing in employer branding ultimately drives higher morale, stronger productivity, and long-term organizational success.

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Adrian Iorga, Founder & President, Stairhopper Movers.

Branding Critical for Regulated Industries

Today, being a competitive world, in that context, employer branding performs an even more significant function in attracting top talent and retaining them as well. As we are involved with highly regulated industries as our operations, unique issues emerge when we look at finding the right individual holding the right skills. In this regard, employer branding helps us show our organizational culture, values, innovation, and commitment to innovation for the employees who would become part of our workforce.

When talent recognizes an organization is concerned with its employee’s development and the culture within the workplace, they tend to move towards such an organization. Take a company that values transparency in communication and encourages collaboration. These employees will find their way to the company naturally, as they are used to thriving within such environments. In highly regulated sectors, where compliance and risk management are key, maintaining a strong employer brand also signals to the workforce that they are part of an organization committed to creating solutions that matter.

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Bill Hall, Co-Founder & CEO, OurRecords, Inc.

How DSMN8 makes employee advocacy easy for regulated industries.

Fosters Pride and Better Service

A compelling employer brand fosters a sense of pride among our team members. When employees are proud to work for Bestonlinecabinets, they naturally become ambassadors for our brand. The enthusiasm translates into better customer interactions, as satisfied employees are more likely to provide exceptional service and promote our products. Furthermore, a strong employer brand positions us as adaptable and forward-thinking as we face industry challenges and changes.

It helps us attract skilled individuals eager to contribute to innovative kitchen ideas and solutions. Investing in our employer brand is about creating a sustainable workforce that is engaged, motivated, and aligned with our vision. This transformation leads to lower turnover rates, higher employee satisfaction, and a more cohesive team, all of which significantly contribute to the overall success and growth of our company in the long run.
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Josh Qian, COO and Co-Founder, Best Online Cabinets.

Every Interaction Contributes

Our brand is our reputation. It’s how our clients and partners see us and everything we stand for. Every interaction, whether with a client, a partner, or even within our own team, contributes to this reputation. It’s built on service quality, messaging consistency, and trust we’ve built over time.

When we say we deliver exceptional fitness experiences, we actively work to ensure our actions match those words. Showing up consistently, delivering results, and treating clients with respect and understanding builds our reputation. It’s not just what we do; it’s how we make people feel and the values we stand by that really shape how others see us.
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Maria Vazquez, Head of Training, MYWOWFIT.

Attracts Right People and Motivates Team

Employer branding matters to me because it helps us attract the right people and keeps the team motivated. When others see us as a place that supports growth and offers a positive environment, it naturally draws in those who share our values. For the team, it creates a sense of pride and loyalty, which leads to better results. It’s about building a workplace where people feel valued and want to stay.
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Spencer Romenco, Chief Growth Strategist, Growth Spurt.

Strong Workforce for Long-Term Growth

Employer branding is crucial for our organization because it helps attract and retain top talent, creating a positive image of our company culture and values. A strong employer brand enhances our ability to differentiate ourselves in a competitive job market, ensuring that we attract candidates who align with our mission and work culture.

It also promotes employee engagement and satisfaction, as a well-established employer brand often leads to a sense of pride and loyalty among existing staff. By showcasing our commitment to development, innovation, and a positive work environment, we build a reputation that helps us maintain a strong workforce and sustain long-term growth.

Neglecting Employer Branding Can Be Costly

As an entrepreneur who has been involved in a number of businesses, I can say that it is REPUTATION that carries more weight than money. With that in mind, failing to develop your employer brand can have COSTLY consequences. Did you realize that neglecting employer branding can lead to spending more than $4,000 in salary premiums for each employee you hire? Just think: if you have 10,000 employees at your company you could have another $7.6 million in wages in your sights. That’s a big number no one wants to waste with a pointless purchase.

Of course salary is one of the most important factors that candidates can ask for, but it is not the ONLY reason behind their decision to join the company. Under today’s employment climate, where candidates can afford to be choosy, the job market is dire. They want to serve companies that are aligned with their values, functions that allow for them to grow and bring good company culture.

This is where employer branding steps in. A solid employer brand not only attracts top talent, it also RETAINS existing employees. A good reputation as an employer makes your organization an attractive working place for potential candidates. This will result in a larger pool of applications from suitable candidates, improving your chances of employing competent employees.

Ready to transform your employer brand?

Book a demo with DSMN8 and discover how employee advocacy can amplify your reach, showcase your culture, and effortlessly attract top talent.

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Emily Neal

SEO and Content Specialist at DSMN8. Emily has 10 years experience blogging, and is a pro at Pinterest Marketing, reaching 1 million monthly views. She’s all about empowering employees to grow their personal brands and become influencers.