Willie
Imagine that your the hirer & firer and you've interviewed hundreds of folk for relatively few positions. Your brain is mush trying to remember which person impressed, which didn't.
Now, would you make the decision only on what you saw at interview, or would you ask around within the company, to see if any employees you already have and respect, would be prepared to recommend some of the applicants?
I think calling this cronyism is to deny reality.