Employee referral policy (Illinois): Free template

Employee referral policy (Illinois): Free template

Employee referral policy (Illinois)

This employee referral policy is designed to help Illinois businesses encourage employees to recommend qualified candidates for open positions. It establishes guidelines for the referral process, eligibility criteria, and rewards, creating a structured approach to leveraging employee networks for recruitment.

By adopting this policy, businesses can enhance hiring efficiency, attract high-quality candidates, and foster employee engagement.

How to use this employee referral policy (Illinois)

  • Define program goals: Clarify the objectives of the referral program, such as attracting top talent or filling hard-to-hire roles.
  • Specify eligible participants: Identify which employees can participate in the referral program and any restrictions, such as excluding HR staff or hiring managers.
  • Outline referral procedures: Provide instructions for submitting referrals, including the required information and submission channels (e.g., email or online form).
  • Include eligibility criteria: Establish the qualifications for referred candidates, such as skills, experience, or alignment with the company’s values.
  • Describe rewards: Detail the rewards for successful referrals, such as cash bonuses, gift cards, or other incentives, and specify payment timing (e.g., after 90 days of employment).
  • Set limits: Clarify any limits on the number of referrals an employee can submit or the maximum rewards they can receive.
  • Emphasize fairness: Ensure the program complies with Illinois employment laws and emphasizes equal opportunities in hiring.
  • Monitor effectiveness: Regularly review the referral program’s impact on recruitment efforts and employee participation.

Benefits of using this employee referral policy (Illinois)

This policy provides several benefits for Illinois businesses:

  • Improves recruitment: Leverages employee networks to attract high-quality candidates efficiently.
  • Reduces hiring costs: Saves time and resources compared to traditional recruitment methods.
  • Enhances retention: Increases employee engagement and satisfaction through recognition and rewards.
  • Promotes culture fit: Encourages referrals from employees who understand the company’s values and culture.
  • Ensures compliance: Aligns with Illinois laws, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity in hiring practices.

Tips for using this employee referral policy (Illinois)

  • Communicate the program: Share the referral program with employees during onboarding and through internal communication channels.
  • Provide training: Educate employees on the referral process and criteria for eligible candidates.
  • Recognize contributions: Publicly acknowledge employees who make successful referrals to encourage participation.
  • Track results: Monitor the program’s effectiveness and adjust rewards or procedures as needed.
  • Update regularly: Revise the policy to reflect changes in Illinois laws, recruitment strategies, or company goals.

Q: Who is eligible to participate in the referral program?

A: All employees, except those in HR or hiring manager roles, are eligible to participate in the referral program.

Q: What types of candidates are eligible for referral?

A: Referred candidates must meet the qualifications for the position, including skills, experience, and alignment with company values.

Q: What rewards are offered for successful referrals?

A: Rewards may include cash bonuses, gift cards, or other incentives, as outlined in the policy.

Q: When are referral rewards paid?

A: Referral rewards are typically paid after the referred candidate completes a specified period of employment, such as 90 days.

Q: How should employees submit referrals?

A: Employees can submit referrals through designated channels, such as an online form or email, with the required candidate information.

Q: Is there a limit to the number of referrals an employee can submit?

A: The policy may include limits on the number of referrals or total rewards an employee can receive, depending on company guidelines.

Q: How often is this policy reviewed?

A: This policy is reviewed annually or whenever significant changes occur in Illinois laws, recruitment practices, or company needs.

Q: Are referred candidates guaranteed to be hired?

A: No, referred candidates must go through the standard hiring process and meet all qualifications for the position.


This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.