The following is a list of hiring tips to help channel employers looking for solid technical skills:

• Create a clear and complete job description for newspaper and online classifieds

• Consider using an industry-specific recruiting Website

• Tap existing employees for referrals and recommendations

• Attend local user and industry association meetings

• Develop a relationship with local technical colleges and schools

• Never forget to sell your company’s biggest advantages

• Provide qualified prospects with reasons why the company is successful and financially sound

• Interview prospects’ customers, as well as former managers

• Have hiring procedures in place to keep the process short and smooth

• To expand job pool, consider allowing an employee to telecommute

• Put together a retention program: It’s cheaper to keep good employees than hire new ones.