TalentMinded

Spoiler alert! If you haven’t seen the new movie, The Muppets, some plot details are revealed below. Also, really? Get on that.

The crux of the plot is this: Kermit and his pals want to save their old theater, which is in danger of being bulldozed by a nefarious developer. To save it, he wants to put on a benefit show with his new friend and fellow puppet, Walter. But they have a problem: they need to find a cast… and quick! Where better to turn than referrals?

Kermit was ready because he had a ton of referrals to go on, including a number of old friends like Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, Rowlf and – of course – Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. Walter also chimed in with two additional referrals to help behind the scenes. So, why are referrals such a great option?

1. You can get the real scoop. To an outsider, someone like Fozzie Bear might seem corny and difficult to take, but Kermit’s referral reveals that Fozzie is loyal and adds a sense of levity to tense situations. That sounds like someone who would be great to work with! The point is, employee referrals help you see beyond the resume and get to the personality – which is very important when building a team.
2. You find hidden gems. Walter is the newest addition to the Muppets. He recommends his brother and his brother’s girlfriend to help out with the show. And although they had no prior show biz experience, they were extremely helpful in pulling things together for the big night. Referrals are great because a personal acquaintance or former co-worker might tip you off to a skill set that isn’t reflected in an applicant’s work history.
3. Camaraderie makes for efficiency. The Muppets are not just co-workers – they are friends. When people feel like they played a role in building the team, they are more invested overall. Employees who enjoy working together are often more willing to pitch in and make the effort to finish big projects. Let your employees be part of the recruiting process. By turning your office into a referral-friendly zone, you create a welcoming culture that is receptive to great employees that best fit the role and your team.

 

Photo: Hello Giggles