Employee referral programmes can have a broad and lasting impact on a company. Firms that have yet to start such a program may want to reconsider, while other firms may want to expand their current program to maximise its effectiveness.

HRWire this week looks at the benefits of employee referral programs and presents a how-to guide for both starting and expanding an efficient plan.

Utilizing current employees in the hiring process makes good business sense for a number of reasons:

- Current employees are good sellers.

- Employees know your company.

- Referral programs increase loyalty.

- Helps create unofficial mentors.

- Helps in team-building.

There's lots more good food for thought in the full article. Read on!