Recognized for Excellence in Every Campus Forward Award Category
Synchrony received a Campus Forward Award for Excellence in Recruitment Strategies, Tech Innovation, Candidate Experience, DE&I, and Internship Programming.
Receiving an award for each category reflects Synchrony's unwavering excellence and commitment to providing the best experience for the next generation of talent. Synchrony invests in innovative recruitment strategies, cutting-edge technology, thoughtful candidate experiences, inclusive recruitment practices, and standout internship programs. See below for the highlights of their strategies in each one of these categories.
Excellence in Recruitment Strategies
The Synchrony recruitment team drives innovation through a dynamic, inclusive approach to sourcing and recruiting early career talent. The team combines a focused core university strategy with a robust nationwide sourcing model. At core universities, grassroots engagement with diverse student organizations is prioritized, fostering meaningful, year-round connections. Beyond these campuses, the sourcing strategy leverages cutting-edge digital tools to connect with students nationwide, ensuring equitable access to opportunities. Diversity networks and employee resource groups amplify these efforts by identifying key partnerships that build strong talent pipelines. Through these partnerships, the team attends national conferences, collaborates with student chapters, and hosts both in-person and virtual events. These touchpoints provide candidates with insights into Synchrony’s leadership, culture, and commitment to development, creating a standout candidate experience.
Excellence in Tech Innovation
Technology is essential to Synchrony’s university program, enabling the team to connect with Gen Z candidates and enhance the efficiency of recruiting efforts. To meet their expectations for meaningful engagement, digital tools are leveraged to expand the sourcing strategy nationwide. The small, decentralized team hosts large-scale virtual events showcasing Synchrony’s culture, diversity networks, employee resource groups, and program participants. These events allow for authentic connections with students and highlight the community and opportunities the company offers. Technology is also utilized to personalize the candidate experience, ensuring each individual feels engaged. Automated evaluation tools streamline post-interview processes, reducing lead times and enabling quick action. By integrating technology into every stage of recruitment, Synchrony creates a seamless, high-touch experience that attracts top talent and drives program success.
Excellence in Candidate Experience
The candidate experience is a cornerstone of Synchrony’s recruitment strategy. The focus is on building community, fostering engagement, and preparing pre-hires for success well before they start. Each hire receives a personalized welcome, including access to mentors and buddies who provide ongoing guidance. Monthly newsletters, curated by current program participants, highlight Synchrony’s culture, organizational updates, and tips to help candidates prepare for their roles. The standout initiative, Sync Up, is a spring offsite event bringing together all pre-hires, including interns and full-time hires. During this conference, candidates visit Synchrony locations, connect with leaders, learn about their roles, and bond with their cohort. This creates a strong sense of community and helps candidates build relationships and prepare for success. These efforts ensure hires feel valued, informed, and supported every step of the way.
Excellence in DE&I
Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) are core to Synchrony’s early career recruitment and retention efforts. From attraction to retention, the goal is to build a strong, diverse pipeline while ensuring candidates feel supported throughout their journey. On the recruitment side, Synchrony partners with diversity networks and employee resource groups to host events that connect the company with underrepresented talent nationwide. These events—both virtual and in-person—feature stories from ERG members, fostering meaningful connections to the company’s culture and values. Each diversity network is represented, ensuring equity in access and engagement. For retention, mentorship programs pair early career talent with leaders from their own and other diverse communities. Social and professional networking events with ERGs and leaders further provide an immersive experience. This supportive culture allows early career talent to thrive authentically.
Excellence in Internship Programming
The Synchrony internship program is a premier early career leadership experience designed to pipeline talent into the full-time Business Leadership Program (BLP). With 95-100% conversion rates annually, the 2024 class achieved a 100% fill rate from intern conversions. Recognized as the #1 Internship Program by WayUp, Synchrony’s internship stands out for its innovation, impact, and holistic experience. Interns tackle meaningful assignments tied to real business challenges, supported by dedicated assignment leaders who mentor and guide their growth. The Summer Series includes fireside chats with the executive leadership team, community service activities, DE&I workshops, and robust networking events. Unique benefits include fully paid, furnished housing, daily transportation, and relocation assistance, fostering a close-knit community. This comprehensive program offers interns a deep dive into Synchrony’s culture, values, and career pathways, setting them up for long-term success.
