Signs around the store, written in appealing language, should encourage shoppers to apply. On the weekends, when the store is absolutely packed with shoppers, set up a recruiting table. Remember, you are talking not only to a potential employee but a possible customer as well. As we said previously, though, recruiting is no longer a passive management activity. As a rule, fantastic candidates are not going to walk in and present themselves on a regular basis.
Good recruiters have to get out and wear out a little shoe leather.
In the past, you may have read columns from us describing our strategy for visiting the malls, especially jewelry, apparel and shoe shops where the salespeople are likely to be on some sort of commission and may have a sense of style. They're already working in a store, which means they're accustomed to the terrible retail hours. Also, they're in a fashion industry, and if they're any good, they know the transaction is just getting started when the customer asks for a specific product. This job requires an ample supply of business cards as well as a positive and enticing dialog that you've worked out in advance. You want to encourage the people with whom you talk to submit an application without promising them a job.