Very cost effective however quality of applicants is below average
Craigslist can be very efficient and cost-effective IF you tailor your Ads to "filter-out" those candidates who don't meet the standards you set. This was an important factor for us. Make the Ads very detailed about your expectations, so you waste much less time. At least, compared to Indeed, you won't be paying for Duds (except with your time).
If you do post to craigslist to find employees, don't add how much you're willing to pay them.
If you need someone with specific talents, you'll have to sift through all the submissions from people who didn't even read the post and just want the job because of what you're paying.
I have had great success in California and Arizona, not so much in Utah. Be prepared for applicants that did not read the specifics.
I did use them for my last two ads, only $25 for 45 days. I do not give my personal email and I insist they send a resume or call. About 15% are good candidates. I have been getting alot of spam text messages however that say "Hi" for the past week rather annoying. Hired one great candidate!
Can be a reliable, relatively cost-effective method depending on the nature of the position. For non-management type of positions, seems to be effective depending on the geographic area selected.
The one thing I would advise with craigslist is to always be very specific in what you need and what you're looking for. You can weed out the chaff much easier when you're meticulous in your approach. I've had much success hiring this way. Cheers!
I wouldn't recommend trying to find actors on there. Go to an agency or put up your casting in regional casting groups on Facebook. Or use Actors' Access/Breakdown Services.
One of my best hires came from Craigslist and with him, he referred other musicians and potential DJs to me that were excellent. I have also had a lot of "duds" as well. I feel it is a "numbers game", just like sales and marketing is.