7 tips on how to hire the right person for the job
Recruiting staff can be one of the hardest tasks a business undertakes. Getting it wrong can be a costly mistake. Here are seven simple tips to help take the guess work out of hiring the right person.
1. Know how to advertise
Be specific about what you are looking for. Be clear on the job, what it involves, skills and experience required. Make sure to include the type of personality that suits your team. Don’t be shy about telling them a little about your business and the team they will be working with.
2. Know where to advertise
I have found advertising on Seek and TradeMe better than advertising in the local paper. It is also more cost effective. There are other online avenues such as Linkedin and Facebook that are also worth considering. Another often overlooked method is asking your staff if they know anyone who would suit the role. A staff referral has huge advantages, as they will not want to see a friend fail.
3. Narrow it down
Once you have received the CVs, select those best aligned with what you need. You may end up with a “yes”, “maybe” and “no” pile of candidates. Remember, you only need one candidate to fill the job, so you shouldn’t have to interview more than three candidates.
4. Select your top 3
From your “yes” pile, conduct a quick screening interview on the phone. Once you have spoken to those you have in this pile, ask the ones you like to come in for a formal interview. As I mentioned in the previous point, if your phone screening has been completed correctly, you shouldn’t have to interview more than three.
5. Conduct formal interviews
This should be based on Behavioural Interviewing. Using this method means you ask them questions based on their experience, rather than their strengths and weaknesses. Questions should start with “tell me about a time you…” or “describe a situation when you…”. This technique will give you a good idea of whether they have proven experience in the tasks you need them to perform.
6. Select your candidate
Once you have selected the right person, complete the last part of the process: the verbal reference check. Use this as a chance to clarify what you already know, as well as any areas of doubt you may have picked up in the interview. A past employer should be able to shed light on any concerns. Make sure the referee has been their manager or supervisor – not just a work colleague.
7. Get your documentation in order
Make sure you have all checks completed – credit check, drug test and police checks. When you are happy with that, have an up-to-date Employment Agreement prepared and executed prior to them commencing.