March 21, 2007: The U.S. Army has had continued
success with the Army Referral Bonus program, so it is being expanded once
more. Now, civilians working for the army can collect a $2,000 bonus if they
bring in a new recruit (who successfully
completes basic and advanced training.) Under the original program, which began
in January, 2006, active and reserve soldiers could earn a $1,000 bonus for bringing
in new recruits. That was increased to $2,000 last Fall, and retired soldiers
were eligible to make referrals.
Existing soldiers have long been a primary source
of new recruits, and this became an even more productive source once the bonus
became available. In effect, the troops were now willing to go the extra mile
with friends and acquaintances they knew were interested, but needed additional
information or encouragement before they were ready to sign up. The volunteer recruiters get $1,000 when
their candidate enters basic training, and the other $1,000 when the soldier finishes
their advanced training (usually within a year of entering the army).
In 2006, 24,472 referrals were made, which resulted
in 3,378 recruits (joining active duty or reserve service). That's about two
percent of all recruits last year. The cost of the bonus is much less than what
it costs to get recruits using traditional methods (advertising and more
recruiters.)
