6-Steps To Consistently Source Top-Quality Candidates

There are many steps in executing the candidate recruiting process that consistently deliver excellent results. This includes sourcing, outreach, interviewing/screening, submitting, managing expectations, closing deals, and following up after placement.

All of the above steps are important to the placement process. However, everything starts with sourcing. If you can’t source enough quality candidates, the other steps listed above don’t matter.

Below, I’ll share some sourcing tips to help your firm consistently produce three to five quality candidates for each job order.

1. Use a Job Search Checklist

Create a step-by-step checklist that includes each of the sourcing steps your firm will follow in a logical order. When your team knows exactly what to do and can check off completed tasks, it reduces the chance of missing important steps. Clarity leads to consistency!

2. Upgrade your skills in using LinkedIn

While LinkedIn is a great tool, most people don’t use it optimally. Here are some pointers to upgrade your skills and those of your team.

• Don’t assume all candidates you want to identify are active on LinkedIn.
• Many profiles lack detailed information, so traditional keyword searches might miss great candidates.
• Think through multiple ways to approach LinkedIn searches. The best way to source your searches can vary depending on the skills and experience your clients require.

Many recruiters overlook quality candidates due to limitations in their understanding of utilizing LinkedIn.

3. Build a Strong Referral Process

A solid candidate referral program can be a game-changer. Encourage your team to seek referrals actively. Review their referral approach and provide constructive feedback on how to get better results. Personal referrals are an underutilized but highly effective sourcing method in today's digital world.

4. Advertise Like a Pro

Think job ads are a waste of time? Think again. Well-crafted ads act as marketing tools, not just job descriptions, and they can bring in top-tier talent. Plus, candidates who apply to job ads are often more motivated to move. Bonus: Advertising is one of the most cost-effective ways to promote your brand to your market..

5. Make the Most of Your ATS

Your applicant tracking system (ATS) is a goldmine—if you use it correctly. Yet, many firms underutilize this valuable resource. Common mistakes include:

• Poor tagging: If candidates aren’t tagged properly (e.g., by job title, skills, or industry), searching the database can become a frustrating mess.
• Lack of training: Sourcing through an ATS isn’t always intuitive. Investing in training can make a big difference in how effectively your team uses it.

6. Explore Other Data Sources

Look beyond your usual methods. Industry associations, professional groups, resume databases, and tools like ZoomInfo can help you uncover hidden talent pools in your niche.

The Bottom Line

Successful sourcing is all about having a clear, well-planned strategy and meticulous execution. While LinkedIn is a valuable tool, you don’t want to rely on it exclusively. You can uncover quality candidates from various sources by following the steps outlined above. This way, you outshine competitors who are too LinkedIn centric.

Cheers to finding your next rockstar hire!