Are you having trouble sourcing candidates in a way that actually elevates your long term staffing success? Are your current channels exhausted, not cost effective, or not providing what you need? Huge established corporations may be able to absorb the cost of a staffing strategy with a few weak links, but if your company is mid-sized or a small start-up, it might be time to start making some changes and looking for new ways to reach out to talented potential employees. As you do this, consider taking advantage of an often overlooked resource: The employees you already have. Here’s how your existing team can help you find great new candidates without straining your staffing budget.

1. Your current employees know more about the company, the culture, and the business model than outside recruiters ever will. No matter how clearly you communication the needs of the department and the demands of the position, a recruiter won’t be able to identify potential candidates with the same level of insight and accuracy. Put your team on the task and the prospects you find will probably be a better match for your needs.

2. For your current employees, the stakes are higher. These are the ones who will be working with the new candidate, so it’s in their best interest to bring you the names of those who are personable, adaptable, highly qualified and trustworthy.

3. Your current employees already have extensive networks. When you factor social media to the equation, your current employees have access to vast pools of potential talent, probably far more than they themselves even realize. Have them mine their address books, put the word out, and look around for second and third degree contacts that can point your HR and hiring managers in the right direction.

4. Your current employees are in constant circulation. If they frequently attend conferences, industry association meetings, or networking events, your employees are exposed to potential contacts on a regular basis. Put this exposure to work for your staffing strategy.

5. Your current employees are free. They won’t require a commission or bonus in exchange for a list of names, and chances are they’ll appreciate the opportunity to exercise some control over the selection process and the direction of the enterprise. At the same time, it might be a good idea to offer a bonus or an incentive anyway to reward them for producing a successful hire.

Don’t pass up an affordable and accurate staffing resource, especially one that’s right in front of you every day. For more information on engaging your existing employees in your current and future staffing solutions, reach out to the Texas HR pros at Expert.