Best Kept Secret – Employee Referrals

As it becomes more difficult to find top talent and even worse, actually hire them for your open position, many hiring managers are scratching their head wondering what they can do differently. While there may be many answers to this question, one of the best kept secrets in hiring is employee referrals. Here are a few tips on how to encourage more employee referrals in your hiring:

It has been said that cash is king. Well, it is true when referring to employee referrals as well. Giving cash incentives to your employees is an easy way to encourage they refer qualified candidates to open positions.
While cash incentives are great, there are other perks you can offer as well, such as extra week vacation, VIP parking spots, gift cards, and much more. Use your imagination, and offer incentives that your employees will want.
You must make your referral program easy to understand. If you have too many conditions or requirements, your employees most likely will not understand it and therefore not refer anyone. When you launch your program, make sure the terms are clear, and it is often best to present it to the entire group of employees.
Consider recognizing your employees that offer referrals, such as a referral wall or mention them in your newsletter. The point is to give them then due recognition, as others will want the same.
Make sure that your employees have the necessary tools to refer someone. An internal form that must be completed, a conversation with the hiring manager, or an introduction. No matter how you want your employee to alert you of the referral – it must be clear and easy.

Employee referrals are one of the most beneficial ways to attract talent, yet few hiring managers tap into this resource. Consider the tips here to master one of the best kept secrets in hiring – your employees.