On average, a single job listing will receive 118 applicants. When you get flooded with applications, finding the perfect candidate can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.
As a hiring manager, you have your work cut out for you, but the hiring process doesn’t have to be long and arduous. Here’s your simple guide to hiring the right people for your business.
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Pay Attention to Qualifications
Before you begin looking at resumes and applications, it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for. Make a list of must-have qualifications as well as nice-to-have traits and absolute dealbreakers.
Next, make the requirements clear in your job posting. The more detailed you are, the more time you’ll save later in the hiring process (and the new employee training).
Stick to your lists as you review resumes. If you do, you can quickly rule out under-qualified candidates and prioritize the remaining.
Conduct Careful Screening
It’s not unusual to be flooded with applicants, but you can narrow down the candidates through a simple screening process. First, require a few assessments along with applications. IQ tests and technical assessments can assure your applicants are intelligent and prepared, while personality tests can determine if they are a good fit for your company culture.
Next, follow up with quick phone screenings. This way, you can get a better idea of a candidate’s personality and goals. At this time, you can confirm an applicant’s intentions—for instance, whether they plan to work with you long-term.
You can also take advantage of services like FreeUp that vet freelancers for the right skills before you ever see their applications. This not only saves you time but also ensures you interview only people suitable for the job.
Ask the Right Questions
The interview process is the most important step for a hiring manager. It also takes the longest; in many cases, it’s best to conduct multiple interviews with each qualified candidate. Resumes and applications take care of job history and skills; the interview is better for more personal questions.
Go beyond the standard strengths and weaknesses questions. Instead, make sure candidates agree with your company values. It’s also important to ask what they want from the position to make sure they will be happy in the role.
Situational questions can give you insight as well. Ask how they would deal with certain encounters, obstacles, or setbacks. This way, you can be sure you’re leaving your company in good hands.
Start Hiring the Right People Now
Hiring the right people is crucial to the success of your business. Don’t take the hiring process lightly! Take these tips into consideration throughout the process of looking for new employees, and you’re sure to find the candidate that will contribute the most to your business.
Now that you know how to hire great employees, it’s time to learn about keeping them! Check out the Business page on this site to learn how to increase employee retention and so much more. You’ll find helpful articles about the hiring process, marketing, and beyond.
