Is recruiting your job?

Myth. Recruiting is the sole job function of the recruiter sitting in human resources.

False. You may have heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child. It takes multi-level people within the organization to recruit. Associates at various levels should be proud of their employment and know people who might fit within the organization.

What’s really interesting is that non-management level people enjoy their role in referring people. Even when there is not referral bonus of any kind, non-management folks regularly refer their friends. As the level rises and the job functions become more difficult to fill, the referrals become infrequent to non-existent.

Since I’m not a psychologist I don’t know why this management non-referral occurs. As a recruiter, I find it frustrating. As a human, I find it disappointing. I am not a job-hopper by even the most critical reviewer’s definition. But even if I spent one month at a company, I’d work to make it better. I want to improve productivity in operations just to make it smoother and increase our P&L. I want to find potential customers and refer them to our sales team to gain a greater market share and increase profitability. No, my name is not on the company letterhead. But my name is on a business card.

If I do everything I can to make the company better, my actions may have a direct impact on the company. Or my actions may impact me financially based on recognition of my efforts. But neither is a given. What I do know is that I will maximize my ability to impact others. I may have a new experience and maybe even get a little rush. You know the kind when you close a sales deal? Or when your perfect candidate accepts your job offer? Or when your suggestion for improved productivity results in a measurable save? No, okay, how about when you get on the scale and you’ve lost a few pounds just by cutting back on a late night snacks for a couple of weeks?

Back to the recruiting front, IT people know other IT people; financial representatives know other like minded individuals, customer service people know others with their experience. Think about it. IT is cutting edge and it’s critical to network with others of the same skill set. Accountants had at least 4 years of school. This means they have former classmates. And if they have their CPA, continuing education brings on new class mates. Customer service associates often move on in a few years if they are unable to move up or increase their compensation. They keep in touch with many of their former associates. Have you heard of Facebook?

Social media is changing the face of recruiting. But we are missing the reverse efforts. Applicants are seeking positions through LI and FB and other sites. But those associates already employed are not reaching out to applicants. Applicants, also known as friends, neighbors, former coworkers, and parents of their children’s friends are waiting for you. I could go on, but I know you are getting a feel for this. Unfortunately, it only takes a moment for the tables to turn.

Regardless of the work you do for your company, you are important and you have the ability to influence others. So network, join groups, talk in your communities, share within your volunteer organizations, and proudly discuss where you work. Let me know if you feel that rush when one of your referrals is hired.