The best intentions.
Most employee referral programs fail for one simple reason - communication.
When it comes time to refer somebody for a role, many employees don't know where to go or how to do it, so they forget and move on. For many employers, a program is launched and left alone, or communication is sporadic and inconsistent. But, the RIGHT communication approach can propel a referral program's effectiveness incredibly.
96% of companies recognize that stronger communication drives referrals results.
Make communication your secret weapon.
Building an effective communication plan plays a critical role in driving adoption for your employee referrals program. With evolving and uniquely-shaped workforces, there is no 'one best practice' when it comes to launching a program in the workplace. A few things to think about as you work to optimize your program:
Awareness isn't a sprint.
The #1 reason employees don't participate is that they simply aren't aware the program exists. Be loud and proud of your referral program, and get a little creative - share URLs and QR codes on branded merchandise, encourage contests and rewards for adoption or host a referral blitz - keep referrals top of mind for employees at launch and beyond.
Simple is the name of the game.
Don't overload employees with complicated steps or information they'll just skip over. Continuous and 'bite-sized' communication with easy-to-take actions, hyperlinks and examples are ideal. Don't require downloads, forms or unnecessary information.
Multiple channels are key.
Not all of your people work at a computer or 'live' in email - the primary form of communication, email, isn't optimal for every employee. Quick share options via mobile, social or text help employees extend your reach into broader talent pools faster and drive adoption overall by meeting people where they prefer to work.
Companies that provide links for employees to share jobs on social media or through text are 3x more likely to see employee adoption.
What's Next?
Convinced your program could use a boost? Let's talk about how Aliro can help you implement or boost the role referrals play in your hiring strategy.
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