Explain in brief the external sources of recruitment.

OR

Discuss any two external sources of recruitment.

External sources of recruitment refer to recruiting employees from outside the organisation. The main external sources are:

1. Advertisements — Advertisements in newspapers and journals are the most widely used method of attracting candidates for all types of jobs. The job requirements and terms of employment are given in the advertisement. This method is convenient, economical, and brings in a large number of applications due to wide circulation.

2. Employment Exchanges — Employment exchanges run by the Government allow job-seekers to register and employers to notify vacancies. The exchange brings job-seekers and job-givers into contact. This source is useful for recruiting semi-skilled and unskilled personnel without any cost.

3. Placement Agencies — Private placement agencies advertise vacancies, receive applications, conduct interviews, and short-list candidates on behalf of employers. They charge a fee but are popular for recruiting managerial and technical personnel.

4. Educational Institutions — Companies maintain liaison with management and technical institutes. Bright students are spotted and offered jobs on completion of their studies. This is also known as campus recruitment and is suitable for engineers, computer experts, and managers.

5. Gate Hiring — Small firms make recruitment at the factory gate. Workers gather at the gate after reading vacancy notices, and suitable candidates are selected. This method is used for temporary and casual vacancies.

6. Unsolicited Applicants — Persons in search of employment visit company offices with their resumes. They are also known as casual callers and may be considered when suitable vacancies arise.

7. Recommendations — Applicants introduced by friends, relatives, or existing employees can be a source of recruitment. Preliminary screening takes place through recommendation.

8. Jobbers and Contractors — Contractors are engaged for the supply of unskilled labour at short notice. They maintain links with small towns and villages and serve as a useful source for unskilled workers.