Talent acquisition is a dynamic and rewarding career path for professionals who enjoy people-centered work and strategic planning. As organizations compete for top talent, skilled specialists play a crucial role in shaping workforce success.
Graduates of the online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Specialization in Human Resources program from Youngstown State University (YSU) are prepared to pursue a variety of administrative and leadership roles, including hiring strategy, recruitment planning and talent development. This article explores what it takes to succeed in talent acquisition, in-demand skills to help you get ahead, career prospects and the steps to get started in the field.
What Is Talent Acquisition?
Talent acquisition is the process of finding, attracting and hiring skilled individuals to meet an organization’s workforce needs. Unlike traditional recruiting, which focuses on filling immediate vacancies, talent acquisition takes a long-term approach. It involves strategic workforce planning, employer branding and proactive sourcing to build a pipeline of qualified candidates.
Talent acquisition is vital to an organization’s success. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 77% of HR professionals identify acquiring and retaining top talent as a high priority. A well-executed talent acquisition strategy supports growth by securing high-performing individuals who align with company values and goals. Strong hires are more likely to drive innovation and improve retention, reducing costly turnover and strengthening workplace culture.
What Will You Do in a Talent Acquisition Role?
Talent acquisition specialists play tactical and strategic roles, matching talent to positions while helping shape long-term workforce planning. Professionals in this field manage a variety of tasks depending on their title and industry; however, most professionals in this field manage human capital through a range of hiring-related tasks. Typical responsibilities include:
- Writing job descriptions
- Screening resumes
- Interviewing candidates
- Coordinating hiring processes
- Onboarding new employees
In leadership roles, talent acquisition specialists may also:
- Develop talent strategies
- Manage hiring teams
- Enhance employee engagement
- Track and analyze hiring metrics
Success in this field requires soft skills such as communication, empathy, critical thinking and time management. Technical proficiency is also essential, particularly in using applicant tracking systems (ATS), recruiting platforms and data analysis tools. Talent acquisition specialists regularly collaborate with hiring managers, human resources teams, and department leaders to ensure a smooth and strategic hiring process.
Career Pathways: Talent Acquisition Jobs
Careers in talent acquisition span many sectors, including healthcare, finance, education, manufacturing and technology. An online MBA in HR from YSU can provide the added credibility to get your foot in the door of your preferred industry. Job titles include:
- Talent acquisition specialist
- Recruiting manager
- Director of talent acquisition
- Project coordinator
- Compensation, benefits and job analyst
- Campus recruiting lead
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects strong demand for human resources specialists, with over 86,200 job openings expected annually through 2033. In 2024, the median salary for HR specialists was $72,910, with the top 10% of management roles exceeding $126,540 per year.
How to Get Started in Talent Acquisition
Getting started in talent acquisition involves several steps, and with a guided roadmap, the path becomes accessible. YSU provides students with support and technical assistance to empower them to progress at their own pace.
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Most employers require a degree in human resources, business, psychology or a related field. This foundation builds essential knowledge in organizational behavior, employment law and communication.
Gain entry-level experience
Entry-level roles in HR, customer service, or administration provide a solid foundation and hands-on experience with hiring practices, workplace dynamics and team collaboration.
Master the tools
Familiarity with recruiting software, databases and professional networks is essential for advancing your HR role within an organization. Learning to use ATS platforms and understanding metrics such as time-to-hire or cost-per-hire will also give you a competitive edge.
Pursue a graduate degree
If you’re aiming for leadership or strategic roles, a graduate credential such as YSU’s online MBA in Human Resources combines advanced business knowledge with HR expertise to prepare professionals for upper-level positions.
To become a talent acquisition specialist, a combination of education, experience and proficiency in technology leads to long-term success. With a flexible, career-focused program like YSU’s online MBA in HR program, you can build the skills needed to grow and evolve in the field.
Inside the YSU Online Experience
YSU delivers flexible, affordable education designed for working adults. The MBA in HR online program prepares students to manage teams, lead hiring initiatives, research and apply industry trends, and contribute to organizational growth.
The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a distinction held by fewer than 6% of business schools worldwide, and is taught by faculty with real-world human resources experience. Online learners benefit from strong student support services, including academic advising, career coaching, and technical assistance.
Tuition is competitive, and the program can be completed in as few as 12 months, helping students transition into or advance within the talent acquisition field. It’s an ideal option for professionals seeking a fast and practical path to career growth.
Launch Your Career in Talent Acquisition
For professionals seeking to enter or advance in this field, Youngstown State University provides the tools and credentials to help you move forward. Support services help learners balance their education with work and personal commitments, letting you move forward in your career without putting your life on hold.
A career in talent acquisition offers meaningful work, steady job growth and the opportunity to impact company success at every level. Explore your options today and take the first step toward becoming a leader in talent acquisition with YSU’s online MBA in Human Resources program.
