I’ve been in Human Resources for over a decade. I went to school for it (twice), and even dipped my toes into a Marketing degree once — but let’s be honest, I’m no marketer. What I do know is HR. And what I’ve learned along the way is that HR and Marketing, though they may seem like totally different worlds, are actually powerful allies.
In fact, HR has to sell just as much as the sales team — whether it’s selling the company to a prospective hire, the culture to a new employee, or engagement to the broader team. And when Marketing has our back, we get to do it smarter, louder, and better.
Recruitment Is a Branding Game
If there's one thing the past five years have taught me, it’s that hiring is no longer just about job boards — it’s about storytelling. We’re not just filling roles anymore. We’re building a narrative around why someone should want to work here.
The real success stories in HR are when you bring in the right person — someone who aligns with your values, thrives in your environment, and grows with your company. That kind of alignment starts long before the first interview. It starts with the story you’re telling online.
Thanks to our marketing team, I have it easy. Applicants come in already knowing who we are and what we stand for. Our brand presence on LinkedIn, Instagram, and job pages does the heavy lifting — creating a connection before the first resume is even submitted. It’s what we call “Culturecruit”: when your culture markets itself through intentional, value-driven content. It helps candidates self-select in (or out) — saving time and setting expectations early.
Internal Marketing Builds Culture That Sticks
Once you’ve got the right person in the seat, the real win is keeping them engaged, empowered, and proud to be here. That’s where internal marketing comes in.
Whether it’s employee spotlights, event promos, or just a fun shout-out, internal campaigns reinforce culture and boost morale. And let’s be real — plain text emails just don’t cut it anymore. Our designers and marketing team take those everyday updates and turn them into something worth clicking.
Take our company Zoo Day as an example. The email invite was cute, but the marketing-designed graphic? That’s what actually got people talking — and attending. It turned a simple event into a moment of excitement. That’s the difference creative collaboration makes.
Celebrations & Swag Matter More Than You Think
I’ll never forget my first day at JH. I walked into my new desk and was greeted by more than just office supplies. There were branded gifts — cups, pens, fidget spinners, stickers, a hat, and a personalized welcome message. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes. It told me I mattered.
Compare that to previous first days, where I was lucky to get a padfolio and a stapler. That thoughtful swag made me feel seen and excited to be part of the team.
Our marketing and promo partners help us create these experiences. From “just because” gifts to tenure celebrations, the right item, message, or moment becomes a story employees tell — both online and off. It’s not about the stuff. It’s about the sentiment.
Showing Up Strong at Tradeshows & Recruiting Events
I’ve been to more recruiting events and job fairs than I can count — and the ones people actually remember? Are the ones that felt different.
Our booth doesn’t just show what we do — it shows who we are. We’ve had students line up just to get a look at our swag. I’ve had other employers come over just to comment on our wooden planter that says, “Come grow with us.” Or the pizza cutter that kicked off half a dozen conversations about college nights.
These are small details, but they make a big impact. From booth design and signage to handouts and follow-ups, our promo team helps us show up with intention — and consistency. HR brings the heart. Marketing brings the voice and visuals.
When HR + Marketing Sync, Everybody Wins
Here’s the truth: You don’t need to be a marketing expert (I know I’m not). You just need to know when to collaborate.
Great culture deserves great storytelling. And marketing helps HR tell that story — clearly, consistently, and creatively. The result?
- Candidates feel more connected before they even apply.
- New hires feel welcomed and excited from day one.
- Current employees feel seen, appreciated, and proud to be part of your story.
That’s how you build a workplace people want to stay in. That’s how culture becomes your competitive edge.
The Honest HR Truth
I’ll admit it — I used to think I had to do it all myself. But when I finally leaned into my partnership with Marketing, everything changed.
Marketing is no longer a “nice to have” for HR. It’s a strategic partner. A secret weapon. A translator that turns our culture into something others can see, feel, and believe in.
So, to all my fellow HR professionals: stop thinking you have to do it all. Partner with the creatives already in your corner. Share your ideas. Let them turn your words into something powerful.
Trust me — it’ll be the best story you’ve ever told.
