That is a question for every leader who is building a team. As a leader, you must have an answer to this question. It may never be asked directly. I have learned that people join people and people leave people.

You may have a great company and brand; however, at the end of the day, they are joining YOU. The person they meet for the interview sets the tone for the answer to this question. As the leader, if you have a representative conducting recruiting interviews, you must take ownership and responsibility for the answer.

People are drawn to the leader they believe will add value to their lives. So, what is the real value you are bringing to the relationship? Is it the mentoring, the coaching, and your resources to help them grow? Or is it your vision for the future, your mission, and your purpose?

People need to know they matter and are integral to the vision and mission. When they know their role in the future, empowerment takes place.

I have found that good candidates have options and choices as to where to “hang their hat.” You must be clear about what separates you and your company, such as division, department, etc.

I suggest you ask yourself occasionally –what would I want to know if I were on the outside and looking in? People seek an environment that will challenge them to grow, an environment of encouragement—an environment where they feel valued.

Try this exercise with your leadership team: Gather the group and have each person share one unique reason someone should join your team—no repeats allowed. It may seem simple, but it can spark excitement, foster alignment, and renew a shared sense of purpose.

Let’s remember that to attract a winner, we must be attractive.