What Else Can We Do? Creative Recruiting Ideas

By Jackie Throop, SPHR, Director, Outsourced HR & Recruiting Services
Published January 23, 2024

At HR Source, we’re asked all the time, “Do you have any different or innovative recruiting techniques that you can share?” Many employers continue to struggle with finding well-qualified candidates. While the Great Resignation seems to be over (good news!), available jobs still outnumber the nearly 6 million Americans who are counted as unemployed and looking for work. 

So, what can you do to stand out and grab the attention of job seekers? Below are a few tips. While it’s not likely that every suggestion will work for your organization, implementing one or two will likely help.

If the career page on your organization’s website posts current openings, outline your recruitment process. Candidates love information! How many interviews are typically scheduled? Are interviews conducted in-person or virtually? Consider adding a FAQ section to address basic qualifications and preferred qualifications. Use questions like, “When should I discuss compensation for the role?” Every candidate wants to know the answer to this question! Information is powerful and may just encourage people to apply.

Next, try adding a “day in the life” section to your job postings. This offers candidates insight into what the role looks like in practice and might get them excited. It also gives you the opportunity to highlight unique benefits the employee can expect, like enjoying a free lunch with colleagues during a monthly anniversary celebration or access to online wellness programs. 

Employee referral programs can also be valuable. Great people know great people. A robust employee referral program will encourage employees to share open positions with qualified connections in their network. To be successful, keep the program top of mind and offer a meaningful reward for successful referrals. When you have a hard-to-fill position, consider a referral drive or contest to motivate everyone to promote working for your organization. 

One final idea: Spread the word about your workplace! Work with local organizations and share your knowledge. Also, consider sponsoring an event. As a sponsor, you may be afforded the chance to introduce your organization and share pertinent information, including the fact that you’re hiring. 

Many of these suggestions lead to being more transparent by providing more information. The more candidates know about your organization, the more likely they are to apply. 

Don’t miss our upcoming webinar “Recruiting: Who Do You Turn To?”. Our team will help you understand a variety of options available to support your recruiting needs. 

Recruiting is tough, but it doesn’t have to be! Crowdsource the best recruiting tips and tricks with your fellow HR Source members in the All Members Community on HR Exchange.