If there's a college campus near you, consider hiring students. They often need a job and may be looking for a career — tap into that market with these practical tips.
Set Up a Booth at a Career Fair
Call the college to find out when the next career fair is scheduled. Set up a booth, prepare a raffle or giveaway, and share information about job and internship opportunities at your company.
Build Relationships With College Officials and Professors
College development officers and professors can help you identify motivated students. Cultivate relationships with them and ask for referrals when you're ready to hire.
Teach a Class
Offer to teach a short course or workshop using your professional skills. Teaching gives you a chance to evaluate students' abilities and work ethic and may reveal a strong candidate for a role.
Sponsor Campus Events
Sporting, social, and civic events are important parts of college life. When you sponsor an event, you raise your business's visibility while supporting the college. If you host or sponsor sports programming, consider event or camp coverage such as Soccer - Camp Insurance or Basketball Camp and Clinic Insurance.
Use Social Media
Students are active on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Facebook. Post regularly about openings, company culture, and part-time roles, and use social media to screen or research potential hires.
Create a Video Series
Today's students consume video first. Create short, helpful videos on topics that appeal to them—saving money on essentials, dorm-room hacks, local volunteering opportunities, and tips for job interviews.
Do a Giveaway
Everyone likes free stuff, especially students on a tight budget. Host an online or in-person contest where entries require a student's contact information; prizes can be tech, food, gift cards, or small cash awards.
Offer a College Discount
If your product or service fits student needs, offer a student discount. Discounts build goodwill and give you a steady way to collect contacts for future hiring.
Hold an Open House
Invite local students to an open house at your business. Offer tours, demos, free food, or door prizes and ask every attendee to complete a contact form so you can follow up when hiring. If you have questions about event coverage or hiring-related policies, ask an agent.
Offer Shares in Your Company
If you can't match full-time salaries or benefits, consider offering equity or a stake in company projects. Many students value meaningful responsibility and a voice in a growing business.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the right college to recruit from?
Look for colleges with programs related to your industry and contact career services to learn about fairs, job boards, and partnership opportunities.
What roles are best for student hires?
Part-time, seasonal, internship, and entry-level roles that offer mentorship and flexible schedules work well for students balancing classes.
How should I screen student applicants?
Use a combination of resumes, short interviews, and work-sample tasks to assess skills and fit without placing undue burden on applicants.
Can sponsoring campus events help with long-term recruiting?
Yes; sponsoring events raises brand recognition and builds relationships that can lead to ongoing recruitment pipelines.