Hiring Hacks: 20 sourcing ideas to help you attract hourly workers

To stay ahead in today's fast-paced hourly job market, you need innovative sourcing strategies. Relying on job boards alone won't cut it. In fact, there are several sourcing strategies that are far more effective. 

To get you started developing a more creative sourcing strategy, here are 20 ideas that will attract applicants who aren't just looking for any job, they're looking for your job. 

1. Get employees to post on social media

Who better to promote your business on social media than the people on it 24/7? Let's be honest, your employees probably know the ins and outs of today's social media far better than you do. (Prove us wrong!) Tapping into their enthusiasm for the latest platforms and posting types is a great way to spread the word about your open roles. Encourage them to share their positive work experiences on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Ask them to share why they like their jobs, highlighting the unique aspects that make your company stand out. To sweeten the deal, offer them a gift card as an incentive for their participation. 

2. Host a hiring fair

Picture this: the smell of success wafting through the air as you reel in a crowd of potential employees from all walks of life. A hiring fair is a great way to attract a bunch of applicants from your local community. (Not to mention, it gets you in front of customers too!). Throw in a juicy signing bonus for anyone who accepts an offer on the spot and you'll be staffed up in no time. 

3. Partner with community-based organizations

Building strong ties with your local community can pay off in your search for qualified applicants. Chat with community-based organizations in your area and explore the possibility of forming partnerships. With their deep connections and local know-how, they'll serve up applicants that fit your values and needs. They're like the secret sauce to your hiring success.

4. Reach out to veteran organizations

Supporting veterans as they transition to civilian life is both a noble endeavor and a smart recruitment strategy. Reach out to local veteran organizations and ask about potential partnerships. Veterans often bring unique skills and qualities to the workforce, making them valuable assets to any team. By collaborating with these organizations, you can tap into a talent pool that is dedicated and disciplined.

5. Participate in virtual career fairs

The internet has opened up a world of possibilities for recruiting talent. Take advantage of virtual career fairs, where you can connect with potential applicants without anyone having to leave the couch.  These virtual events allow you to showcase your company culture, job opportunities, and benefits to a diverse and large audience. 

6. Use QR codes and text-to-apply

Convenience is key when it comes to job applications. Most applicants will give up on an application if it takes more than 15 minutes. Make it easy for them to find and apply for your job openings by using QR codes and text-to-apply numbers. Place these easy digital application tools on well-designed flyers at local community colleges or coffee shops so students and job seekers can quickly access information about your job openings right from their smartphones or tablets.

7. Maximizing your store receipts

Take advantage of any and every possible marketing material—including store receipts. Print those text-to-apply numbers and QR codes right on your receipts so potential hires have a way to apply to your jobs in their back pocket (or purse or crumpled in their car's center console). Regardless of where it goes, they'll know where to find you and your job in a moment's notice.

8. Get on the local radio

Don't underestimate the power of traditional media—it's like the classic hits that never go out of style. Ever thought about making a quick cameo on your local radio station? It's a golden opportunity to dish out the deets about the job opportunities at your organization. Radio waves have a knack for grabbing the attention of commuters and folks chilling at home, giving your recruitment efforts a boost beyond the digital realm.

9. Engage on Facebook community groups

Social media platforms like Facebook have become hubs for community engagement. To tap into your local community's network and find potential candidates, share your job openings on relevant Facebook community groups. These groups are buzzing with active members ready to lend a hand, making them a goldmine for finding your next team member.

10. Explore niche job boards

OK, I know we said you shouldn't go heavy on job boards, but it's all about having a diverse sourcing strategy—that includes major job boards, but especially niche ones. These specialized platforms are treasure troves tailored to specific industries or skills. They're perfect for finding applicants with those special qualifications you're after.

11. Advertise in local print media

In the digital age, print media may seem old-fashioned, but it can still be a valuable resource for reaching certain demographics. Consider placing advertisements in local newspapers or magazines that have a strong readership in your area. This approach can help you reach folks who might not be glued to their screens all day.

12. Network with local businesses

Join local business networking groups to beef up your professional connections. By building bonds with fellow business owners and pros, you might just score some referrals or recommendations for top-notch applicants.

13. Offer coupons with QR codes

You know how we recommended throwing QR codes on receipts? This works just as well on coupons. Offer a free menu item or other incentive, and include a QR code or text-to-apply number on the other side of the coupon. Not only does it entice applicants to apply, but it also serves up a tasty perk.

14. Employee referral challenges

Want in on a secret to finding top talent? Look no further than your own crew.  Challenge your team to actively refer potential candidates from their networks. To motivate them even more, consider offering rewards if the team achieves a specific hiring goal within a week. This approach turns your employees into proactive recruiters.

15. Reconnect with previous applicants

Remember those applicants who almost made the cut but just didn't quite fit the bill? Well, don't write them off just yet. Shoot them a friendly text and let them know your organization is still on the lookout for new hires. It's like reigniting the flame—you might just spark their interest all over again and get them to reapply.

16. Leverage your personal social media

Who said you weren't social media-savvy? Certainly not us! But honestly, your social media channels are just as valuable as your employees'.  Share those job openings on platforms like Instagram or Facebook to cast your net even wider. Your circle of friends might just include the perfect fit for your team, and they could help spread the word like wildfire. It's like turning your social feed into a talent hub!

17. Customer recommendations

Your customers can be an unexpected source of applicant leads. Train your team to ask customers if they know anyone who might be interested in applying for openings. Word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers can lead to awesome new hires.

18. Use oversized signs

Sometimes, the simplest tactics are the most effective. Whip up some big ol' signs about your job openings and have your crew take turns waving them outside your business. Watch as passersby and job seekers alike can't help but take notice. 

19. Create promotional videos

Visual content can be a powerful tool for recruitment. Produce a video discussing job opportunities and benefits at your organization. Upload it to YouTube and invest in targeted promotion within your zip code. Nowadays, no one can resist a good video, and job seekers will be drawn to an engaging one that helps them land a job. 

20. Spanish language outreach

Hiring Spanish-speakers? Create job postings, hiring posters, applications, you name it, in Spanish. By making the hiring process easier to understand and follow, you open your applicant pool to a huge group of potential employees.

The best applicants don't always come from job boards

It's no longer just about hiring quickly. Owners and operators are looking for serious applicants who are more likely to stick around. By diversifying your sourcing strategy, you have a better chance of building a team that's excited about your business, your product, and their career with you.