Sourcing
Unlocking HR Strategies: A Deep Dive into Sourcing
Understanding Sourcing in HR
Decoding Sourcing in Human Resources
Sourcing in HR involves the proactive identification, contact, and engagement of qualified candidates for job openings, moving beyond the traditional approach of waiting for candidates to apply. While general recruiters may handle sourcing alongside other responsibilities, some organizations employ dedicated sourcers solely for this task.
The Core Goal of Sourcing
The primary objective of sourcing is to attract qualified candidates, especially passive ones, into the hiring process. Recruiters utilize various channels, including employee referrals and social networking, to achieve this goal. In the digital age, sourcing has evolved into a digital activity, with professionals employing recruiting software to identify potential candidates.
Strategic Utilization of Sourcing
Most organizations selectively use sourcing based on the nature of the job opening. Highly specialized positions, those requiring a unique skill set, or roles prone to an influx of unqualified applicants often benefit from sourcing strategies.
Differentiating Sourcing and Recruiting
Navigating the Distinction
Sourcing involves actively seeking and convincing candidates to apply for current or future positions, while recruiting focuses on managing relationships with candidates throughout the screening process.
Exploring Types of Sourcing
Diving into Categories
There are three main types of sourcing:
- Passive Sourcing: Reaching out to desirable candidates not actively seeking jobs.
- Active Sourcing: Engaging candidates actively seeking employment.
- Direct Sourcing: Identifying and recruiting specific candidates without third-party involvement.
Crafting an Effective Sourcing Plan
Strategizing Success
A sourcing plan outlines steps for producing and tracking results. It answers questions about candidate qualifications, successful sourcing methods, available resources, and end goals. It is a continuous, long-term process aimed at maintaining a steady flow of valuable candidates.
Creating a Sourcing Plan: Step by Step
- Align the strategy with the company’s HR strategy.
- Identify divisions/departments expected to grow consistently.
- Summarize the future situation and time frame.
- Pinpoint potential challenges.
- Define targeted talent using personas.
- Identify where target talent is located.
- Predict where desired talent will be in 2–5 years.
- Assess competitors’ sourcing methods.
- Decide on sourcing methods.
- Establish checkpoints and measurements before execution.
Exploring Creative Sourcing Strategies
Striking a Balance
A successful strategy combines traditional and creative methods. Leading strategies include internal candidate searches, employee referral programs, tapping into recruiter networks, and leveraging social media. Creative strategies involve reaching out to recent hires elsewhere, using niche social platforms, revisiting past candidate bases, and networking at industry and community events.
Mastering the Art of Sourcing: Strategies Unveiled