The competition for top talent is tough these days. Many companies offer competitive salaries and premium benefits to attract the best applicants to join their company. However, it can be difficult to find qualified applicants, and many small businesses don’t have enough time or resources to embark on the grueling hiring process.
To get some time-tested tips on how to find the best applicants, we asked real entrepreneurs at the Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) the following question:
What is your preferred and most effective strategy for finding qualified candidates for your company? Why?
1. Use your network
I ask my team or network for recommendations. I find that asking for referrals saves a lot of time rather than creating a specific job description, posting it on the right job boards, searching through dozen of cover letters and résumés, and then doing interviews. – Kristin Kimberly Marquet, Marquet Media, LLC
2. Reward employees for referrals
An effective way to find qualified candidates is to reward your existing employees for referrals. In my company, we offer a financial reward for team members who find other qualified people. Because they know what the job is like, they can count on them to let other people know about the job and find the best solution. -Syed Balkhi, WP beginner
3. Integrate flexible interview software
In times like these, the integration of flexible interview software is of crucial importance. Implementing video interview software is a great way to have a more personal touch than phone interviews and still have that connection when face-to-face interviews are not possible. This will make it easier to hire long distance calls and allow you to better understand the character and personality of the individual. – Blair Thomas, eMerchant Broker
4. Create a strong job description
Find the best candidates by pinning your job descriptions and posting them on approved boards and websites like Indeed. Candidates want to make a good first impression, and you should do the same. Bad grammar, typos, and complicated words can put people off. Avoid buzzwords and get to the point. Prioritize clarity on assignments so that the right people are submitting their resumes. – Duran Inci, Optimum 7
5. Use social media
There are many ways to find new employees, but we like to use social media to create job vacancies. The people who follow your social platforms are interested in your industry, and some want to start their careers there. If you can develop a relationship with your audience through platforms like Facebook and Twitter, it will prove easy to find candidates. – John Turner, SeedProd LLC
Other items from AllBusiness.com:6. Use the Linkedin Sales Navigator
I love using Linkedin Sales Navigator. It enables me to target specific groups of people and send them automated messages using a variety of tools. It’s a great way to find and book appointments. It doesn’t close deals for me, but it certainly brings me qualified prospects. —Amine Rahal, IronMonk Solutions
7. Post on paid job boards
We love using paid job boards to find potential employees. We usually avoid free platforms because we are looking for highly qualified employees. After making our list, we usually have a virtual batch of resumes in a few days. – Chris Christoff, MonsterInsights
8. Optimize your job advertisement
The best way to ensure you find quality candidates for your company is to create a streamlined job ad. Your job ad will determine what type of applicants it will attract. Hence, it is important to create one that suits your needs. Use the correct keywords, describe exactly what qualities you are looking for, and emphasize soft skills. – Stephanie Wells, impressive shapes
9. Use word of mouth
Word of mouth is the key. Candidates recommended have already gone through an informal review process before their resume appears on your desk or before they conduct an interview. Your contacts will think twice before throwing potential contacts in the pool, because who you recommend is also a direct reflection of who they are. – Matthew Podolsky, Florida, PA Legal Counsel
10. Make contact before you have a need
Don’t wait until you have to rent. You should have a marketing strategy for internal customers just as you do for your external customers. You should have a number of candidates when you post a new position. Your strategy may include teaching classes at a college, being active in the community, speaking at events, and carefully cultivating your brand and culture. – Kevin Getch, Webfor
RELATED: 10 Tips to Find the Perfect Employee
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