Let’s be real… recruitment isn’t just about plugging talent gaps, is it? A lot of it is about matchmaking. The kind that builds dream teams, long-term success and happy clients.
At Marmalade, we’re all about helping recruitment businesses level up with smart, simple strategies that actually work. One of our favourite hacks? Referral programmes.
Yep - the thing where your best people tell their mates about a role and boom - perfect fit!
Here’s why referral programs are a total game-changer for recruiters and how to nail your own.
Why Referral Programs Are Recruitment Gold
1. They save you money
Let’s be honest, job boards and paid ads can feel like setting fire to your budget. Referral programmes cost way less and the ROI? Chef’s kiss. Offer a solid incentive (cash, gift cards, bragging rights - your call), and let your network do most of the legwork.
2. The quality is next-level
When someone refers a candidate, they’re putting their name to it and vouching for them. That means you’re not just getting a CV, you’re getting someone pre-approved for personality and skills. Referred candidates tend to get hired faster, stay longer and bring fewer surprises.
3. You’ll fill roles faster
We all know that time kills deals. Referred candidates usually skip the slow crawl. They’re engaged, responsive and often half sold on the opportunity already. This means there’s less chasing and more closing.
4. Retention rates go up
People referred by friends or colleagues are more likely to stick. They’ve got an inside view of what to expect, plus someone they know waiting on the other side. That makes onboarding smoother and satisfaction higher.
How to Build a Referral Program That Works
Don’t overcomplicate it. Just follow the essentials:
1. Get clear on your goals
Are you looking to fill niche roles? Build a long-term pipeline? Boost brand advocacy? Nail this first, and everything else should support that goal.
2. Make it ridiculously easy to use
No one wants to fill in a 10-page form to refer a friend. Use a super simple setup, your ATS, a Google Form or a portal (if you have one). Whatever you choose, the fewer clicks, the better!
3. Shout about it loudly
If a referral programme exists but nobody knows about it… does it even exist? Use internal comms, your CRM, social media, Slack - even add it to your email signatures! Keep it front of mind.
4. Offer stuff people actually want
Cash works, obviously, but so do thoughtful rewards. Think gift cards, experiences, pizza parties, donations to a charity of their choice - whatever feels right for your team and culture. Just make sure the reward matches the value of a great hire.
5. Track, tweak, repeat
Keep an eye on how many referrals you’re getting, how fast they convert and how good they are. If it slows down, shake it up. Test. Learn. Optimise.
Pro Tips:
Add it to email signatures: A little “Know someone awesome? Refer them here!” can go a long way.
- Celebrate the wins: When someone makes a great referral, give them a shout-out! Praise is powerful (and contagious).
- Keep people in the loop: Want them to keep referring? Don’t leave them hanging.
- Go social: Go social. Share success stories on LinkedIn or Instagram - let people see what you’re building.
At Marmalade Marketing, we help recruitment agencies build referral schemes that actually get used, aligned perfectly with your goals, tone of voice and team culture.
Get in touch with us today to get started!
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Leah Brotherton
