When running a business, it’s essential to have a strong team of employees behind you. And with recent reports showing a 2.4 percent decrease in labor productivity, it’s more important than ever to ensure you’re hiring the right people for the job.
But how can you be confident you’re making the best choice? Following the tips below, you can create a screening process to help you identify the most qualified candidates.
Define the skills and qualities your ideal candidate should have.
Before looking at resumes, take some time to think about the skills and qualities most important for the role you’re trying to fill. Doing so will help you narrow your focus and weed out candidates who don’t meet your basic requirements.
Suppose your business focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In that case, you’ll want to look for candidates with experience or education in those fields. STEM strand jobs are in-demand, and competition for candidates are stiff, so it’s essential to find the right applicant with the most impressive qualifications.
Consider other skills and qualities as well. Their ability to work independently, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail plays a significant role in job performance, so you’ll want to be on the lookout for those qualities.
When you know what you’re looking for, it will be easier to identify the most qualified candidates and make the best hiring decision for your business and your team.
Write a clear and concise job description.
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to write a job description that reflects your desired qualifications. Be as specific as possible, so potential candidates know what the job entails.
Avoid jargon or complicated language; you want your job description to be easily understood by everyone who reads it. You can use online job boards or post your listing on social media to reach a broader audience.
You should also include information about your company, such as your business’s mission or values. Candidates who share your company’s vision are more likely to be a good fit and stay with your business for the long haul. Include a salary range or benefits package in your job listing to attract top talent. Be sure to research the going rate for the position you’re looking to fill so you can offer a competitive wage.
Writing a well-crafted job description might take some time, but it’s worth the effort. A clear and concise job listing will help you attract the best candidates for your business.
Create a list of questions to ask during interviews.
Asking each candidate the same questions will help you compare them more easily. It will also help you avoid any potential bias in your decision-making.
When crafting your list of questions, consider the ones that will give you insight into their qualifications, work style, and personality. Avoid yes-or-no questions; instead, ask open-ended questions that encourage candidates to elaborate on their answers. Doing so gives you a better sense of who they are and how they might perform in the role you’re looking to fill.
If you need help with what to ask, consider using behavioral interview questions. These questions elicit specific examples of a candidate’s past behavior to see whether they fit the job well. And while you’re at it, ensure you’re taking note of each candidate’s body language and overall demeanor. It can be just as telling as their answers to your questions. Considering these factors makes you more likely to make a well-informed hiring decision.
Take your time making a decision.
Take your time hiring someone just because you need someone in the role ASAP. It’s better to wait a little longer and find the right fit than to hire someone who isn’t a good fit and end up having to let them go later.
After conducting all of your interviews, sit down with your team and discuss each candidate before making a final decision. You can also reach out to references to better understand each candidate’s work style and how they interact with others.
Making the best hiring decision takes time, but it’s ultimately worth it. And when you take your time, you increase the chances of finding an employee who will be a valuable asset to your business.
Following the above tips, you can set up a screening process that will help ensure you’re hiring the best employees for your business. By taking advantage of the many resources available to you and taking the time to make a well-informed decision, you can build a strong team that will help your business succeed.
