Sequencing, timing and filling rates of recruitment channels

This paper analyses the recruitment process by which employers adjust their search strategies. The focus is, in particular, on the sequence and timing of recruitment channels. Two search strategies are identified. One strateg y is to advertise a vacancy, and to form a pool of candidates by activating subsequent recruitment channels such that candidates are added to the pool . An alternative strategy used by employers is to start searching via infor mal channels, consider applicants at arrival and continue their search alon g a new recruitment channel if no suitable candidates show up. Results sugg est that when informal personal contacts are available to the employer, thi s 'switching of channel' strategy is preferred. Moreover, the results of th is paper are consistent with the view that informal search methods are pote ntially more efficient than using an advertisement and forming a pool of ap plicants, in particular when vital positions in firms have to be filled.