When it comes to hiring, it can be difficult to find the right person for the job. Using a combination of application evidence, interview evidence, and trial period evidence can help you to find the best applicant, as long as you know what you are looking for. So what should you consider when choosing the best applicants for the job? And how can you be sure to make the right choice for your company?
The application
A potential employees application may look good. But you should pay attention to some key facts, including:
- The cover letter or personal statement- have they gone to the trouble of writing an entirely personalised one for this job? If so, they are certainly keen. If not, they might not be a serious candidate.
- Do they have all the experience/qualifications you are looking for?
- Have they shown that they have read the job description properly, and have they shown how they match up?
The interview
Once you have wheedled out the less serious candidates, who haven’t shown their enthusiasm for the position in their application, its time to interview.
During the interview, dont just ask them the standard necessary questions. Instead, test your candidates on their real knowledge and skills by giving them a relevant task. For example, if you are hiring a receptionist, get them to answer some mock phone calls and include some “tricky” customers. This will help you establish which candidates have the flexibility and confidence you are looking for.
References
Once you’ve interviewed your candidates, contact the references. Again, when getting in touch with the referrers, make sure you ask questions beyond the norm. Try and get a feeling for the potential employees sense of humour, general attitude, and external activities, such as company trips and department team building. This will help to establish how will the candidate will fit into your company.
Choosing the best applicants for the job means going beyond the generic questions, and giving them a real test before they begin to work for your company. If you are looking for more information or advice, why not contact us today, at Colbern Limited?