Hiring the right person for the right job is one of a manager’s most important, yet challenging, responsibilities. Making a mistake can cost your company time and money. It can also be quite uncomfortable for everyone involved. A manager has to navigate the workforce market and do appropriate vetting to get the best candidate on board.
Here are some things to consider when interviewing job candidates:
- Review the job description before beginning the recruitment process. Many organizations find that it’s beneficial to alter open positions. Perhaps the responsibilities can be changed to better fit into the overall operation. There may be instances in which the job can be eliminated completely and the duties reassigned.
- Consider advertising the position in-house. Give current employees an opportunity to interview. They bring institutional knowledge to the new job that can eliminate a steep learning curve.
- Look critically at resumes and applications for completeness and adherence to instructions. It’s important to know if the candidate pays attention to details.
- Consider doing a video interview among finalists. That will save time and money. During the pandemic, it’s necessary.
- Study the candidates’ appearance, mannerisms and personality. Make sure they will fit in with the current staffing. Also, ask about career goals and if they are committed to the organization long-term. Bringing a new employee on board is a sizable investment.
- Offer additional perks such as flextime or working remotely. Today’s employees are interested in work-life balance.
- Vet the candidates thoroughly. Talk with their current supervisors and references. Ask about “gaps” in their resumes. Also, check their social media channels for content that might reflect badly on the organization or themselves.
The right employee can be a true asset to any organization. Let us help you with all your human resource needs at [email protected].