CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The army is taking some new approaches when it comes to recruiting.
Across the nation, the army is rolling out new efforts to attract recruits using social platforms.
"We're not in era of typically calling people on the telephone very much anymore,” Capt. Darren Magles said. “We're more of -- i mean just like today's generation being tech savvy and everyone is on social media -- we have to hit that platform as well."
By using social media, army recruiters are able to extend their reach to groups that they couldn't before.
"It's just less work for more results and it's paying off,” said 1st. Sgt. Michael Cooney.
Last year, the army missed their recruitment goals for the first time in over a decade. But by using more online tools and engaging potential recruits, they're seeing more success.
"Fiscal year 2019, army recruiters signed contracts with about 3,700 more new active army recruits and 3,100 army reserve soldiers than in fy 18," Magles said.
The army's target audience are youth between the ages of 18 and 25. This year's Coastal Bend goal, is to swear in 300 or more soldiers."
Next month, the army is expanding their virtual experience to include a video series called "what's your warrior" which provides candidates an inside look at the 150 jobs in the army.
Last year, the army missed its recruitment goals for a number of reasons including the economy and unemployment rates.
