By Rieva Lesonsky

Is your company ready to hire? Lots of small businesses are. Recent data from payroll processor ADP indicates the hiring trend that started several months ago shows no signs of slowing. In fact, small business added 102,000 new jobs in March.

If you’re one of those businesses, congratulations! If not, maybe you’re ready to add to your staff. Hiring can be a big step for a small business, and you want to make sure you choose from the best possible pool of candidates. Here are 3 places to find great employees.

  1. Ask for referrals. Your existing employees can be a great source of new employees. After all, your employees have a vested interest in referring people who will do a good job for you and not reflect badly on them. So always spread the word when you’re seeking to hire.
  2. Work your networks. Contact your colleagues, friends and even family members to let them know you’re seeking to hire. People you know and trust are often your best source of leads. Cast your net wide—ask people at your church, gym or social organizations, too.
  3. Speaking of social, don’t forget social networks as a hiring tool. If your business uses Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, use them to spread the word. You can also take out a help wanted ad on LinkedIn—and while some entrepreneurs think this is just for big businesses, it’s actually a great way for companies of any size to find highly motivated candidates. Through May 7, our partner company Bizy is offering huge discounts on LinkedIn job listings—visit the Bizy website to sign up and save.