WHERE TO LOOK
Referrals
Posting a sales job on craigslist or Monster may result in some applications, but not the top talent you're seeking. Both Watkins and Booe have found referrals to be rather successful. "I use referrals and pay attention to the marketplace—who's doing well and trying to engage those people," Watkins said. "I've had success cold-calling candidates at competitors that closed a big deal or helped their organization in other ways. But the best hires are referrals from our employees or other areas of our organization—even clients."
Amanda L. Cole is the editor-in-chief of NonProfit PRO. She was formerly editor-in-chief of special projects for NonProfit PRO's sister publication, Promo Marketing. Contact her at acole@napco.com.