A new spin on recruiting

Information Management Journal, Mar/Apr 2002 by Groves, Shanna

Sporting scouts have known it for years: When looking for the best prospects, they have to go where the candidates are. The principle is no different for organizations looking for dynamic information professionals. While placing employment ads online or in the local newspaper may fill some positions, the more creative recruiting tactics are likely to land the most sought-after candidate.

Bob Rosner, Allan Halcrow, and Alan Levins, employment experts with abcnews.com, give companies these tips for creative recruiting:

* Practice round-the-clock recruiting. Whether on a business trip, at a networking meeting, or during free time, always be cognizant of enthusiastic potential employees, and be willing to tell them about the job position - at that time.

* Ask employees for leads. Encourage staff members to refer qualified people that they know and trust, such as friends, neighbors, and relatives. If not already doing so, companies should offer rewards to employees for successful referrals.

* Network, network, network. Networking with professionals in and outside of the information field can be an effective - and inexpensive - way to find out about potential employees.

* Follow them online. Think about which Web sites job candidates are likely to visit, and advertise there. While it may not be financially possible to advertise on the largest Web sites, checking local sites, such as those owned by the chamber of commerce or colleges, may allow companies to post messages in an online business directory.

The goal with recruiting is to show potential employees that working for Company A will be more beneficial than working for Company B. How and where companies look for a job candidate will determine their success.