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@article{202304,
        author = {Prutha Ratnakar Bothale and Prof. Janhvi Shende},
        title = {Strategic Talent Acquisition in the small finance banking sector},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {12},
        pages = {6342-6347},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=202304},
        abstract = {Small finance banks in India operate at a unique intersection of commercial viability and social mission, making talent acquisition a critical strategic function. This research paper examines the current state of strategic talent acquisition practices within the small finance banking sector, identifies key challenges, and proposes evidence-based recommendations for improvement. Using a mixed-method approach involving surveys of 178 HR professionals and hiring managers across ten small finance banks, along with fifteen in-depth interviews with senior HR leaders, the study reveals that competency-based selection methods significantly improve quality of hire, while geographic location remains a persistent barrier to talent availability. The findings indicate that employer branding efforts focused on social mission and growth opportunities positively influence candidate attraction, and digital recruitment tools enhance hiring efficiency. The research contributes a strategic talent acquisition framework tailored to the small finance banking context, offering actionable guidance for HR practitioners and organizational leaders in this rapidly evolving sector.},
        keywords = {Strategic talent acquisition, small finance banks, competency-based selection, employer branding, financial inclusion, recruitment challenges},
        month = {May},
        }