As small businesses compete amid ongoing talent shortages, often with fewer resources than large companies, they may need to get creative in their attraction and hiring efforts. As such, employee referral programs are growing as a popular strategy. They are generally successful because employees put their names on the line by endorsing someone else.

Between the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation and evolving job duties, more employees are experiencing mental health challenges. In fact, a 2022 Lyra survey revealed that 84% of employees experienced at least one mental health challenge over the past year. They’re feeling anxious, burnt out, stressed and depressed.