Recently we had a client that had budgeted a little over $2000 to post job listings for a new location they were opening.  We told them to hold on to that money and let us see if we could get some traction using some FREE resources out there.  We had three weeks to work with and here’s what we did and what the results were.

First - We created a specific information page on their website where visitors could get necessary details and download an application.  In most of the social media networks (Twitter for example), you are limited to the amount of information you can post.  So it’s important that you have a place you can send internet traffic for expanded details and information.

Second - We created a Craig’s List account and posted the separate job listings. Craig’s List is a free site for classified ads organized by geographical location receiving more that 20 billion pages views per month.

Third - We created a Facebook Fan Page for the new location as well as added a special tab on the Fan Page for hiring information.  We worked on building the number of fans and then used the fans to spread the word.  Everyone wants to spread the word when someone’s hiring!

Fourth - We created a Twitter profile and used it to announce onsite interview times, post links to the job information page and field questions about the hiring progress.  We were able to connect with local people and businesses in the area that helped us spread the word.

The results - In a 3 week period, there were over 1500 applications submitted, nearly 700 interviews and 115 people hired!  Our client was able to hold on to the $2000 they had set aside to pay for job postings and use it in other ways.

If you have other creative ways that you’ve used FREE online resources to aid in the hiring process we’d love to hear it!