Where to Actually Find Applicants

Most businesses post to one job board and wonder why they are not getting applicants. The real answer is that different trades perform differently on different platforms, and the best source for most businesses is one they are not using at all.

Job boards, ranked by actual results

Referrals: your best source if you build the system

Your current employees know other tradespeople. They go to the same training courses, work with the same supply houses, and know who left their last company and why. A referral from a good employee is worth 5 job board applications.

The problem is most businesses have no formal referral program. They rely on employees to mention it on their own. That rarely works. You need a structured ask with a real incentive.

Know a great [trade] tech looking for work?

We pay $[amount] for every referral who joins the team and stays 90 days.

No forms, no process. Just text me their name and number and we handle the rest.

[Your name] | [Your number]

Trade-specific sourcing by trade

• ✓HVAC: Indeed sponsored + local HVAC Facebook groups + contractor association job boards
• ✓Plumbing: Indeed + local plumbing supply house bulletin boards (still works)
• ✓Cleaning: Facebook Jobs + referrals + Craigslist (fast applicant volume)
• ✓Landscaping: Craigslist + Facebook + Spanish-language local groups where relevant
• ✓Electrical: Indeed + apprenticeship program referrals + IBEW job board

Non-traditional sources worth testing

Apprenticeship programs, community colleges with trade programs, and military transition programs (veterans with mechanical skills) are underused sources. Contact your local trade school and ask if they have a job board or a referral channel.