What is the most popular job listing site for restaurant and retail workers?

We recently asked over 2,000 hourly employees where they search for jobs. 

  1. Referrals from friends / word of mouth (59%)

  2. Indeed.com (51%)

  3. Walking in to the businesses I’m interested in (42%)

  4. Google (35%)

  5. Other online job boards (like ZipRecruiter) (27%)

  6. Craigslist (20%)

  7. Facebook (20%)

  8. Other (5%)

Where should you post your vacant jobs?

Really, all of the above. There were no job boards where 100% of surveyed restaurant and retail workers checked every time they were looking for new job opportunities. Your best bet is to use an applicant tracking system like Homebase that will automatically syndicate your vacant jobs out to all of these job boards, and make it easy for potential employees to apply for jobs. That’ll insure you reach the largest possible audience.

In today’s competitive labor market — with the lowest unemployment rate in decades — you should aim to list your jobs on as many job boards as possible, wherever candidates may search, and make it as easy as possible for people to apply to your vacant positions. This is especially true if you have a niche job that’s tough to fill. In that case, you should also do research on niche job search sites. Many specific industries have their own job boards and job search sites, often affiliated with a trade association.

How else can you reach potential applicants?

Since many potential applicants said they either walk in to a business they’re interested in or get a referral, the next best thing you can do is spend some time building your local business brand. This, of course, has other benefits too — namely attracting more customers. With a polished social media profile, a pleasant in-store experience, and some thought on your brand and mission, you may find potential employees in your customer base, asking for an interview or job application.

More than half of the employees surveyed said they looked for word of mouth referrals when searching for jobs so, in other words, your current employees may be your most effective recruiting channel, especially for entry level positions.

What else can you do when hiring employees?

Be clear about the hiring process, as well as the career path, so your applicants know what to expect. Don’t compromise on skills, even though the hiring market is competitive, unless you believe they are skills you can teach. If it’s a salary position, be as transparent as you can about the salary range early in the interview process to avoid wasting time. If the position is hourly, don’t start with an introductory wage rate. Instead, offer the full amount you’re willing to pay upfront. Also, be clear about the hours available, and if the position is full-time or one of several part-time jobs.

Talk up the benefits and other resources that are available for your employees, like opportunities to move into more senior roles. Check out the Homebase Hiring Guide for more advice on hiring in a competitive labor market.