Hiring Can Be Like a Box of Chocolates...

Let’s face it: Not all hires are created equally, and it can be frustrating when mistakes are made in acquiring new talent. Sometimes hiring can be like a box of chocolates, but we at TalentQ have some tips for reviewing resumes and interviewing potential hires that can help you know what you’re going to get.?

• Positive Attitude?

An optimistic outlook can make all the difference in the culture of your workplace, and in the quality of work that an employee will do. Often this can be identified in the interview process, when a candidate speaks about previous places of employment or employers. Negativity about former bosses or workplaces can be a solid indicator that the candidate has a negative attitude.?

Takeaway: Watch out for cues in the way that candidates speak about past jobs to indicate their level of positivity.?

• Commitment?

We all know it takes time and resources to find new talent, so it is important for recruiters to look out for a candidate’s potential for longevity with your company. Is this just a steppingstone for them, or is this a serious career move? Make sure to ask candidates future-oriented questions to get a feel for what they’re looking for. Not only does this minimize the need to keep cycling through the hiring process, but having veteran employees that know your organization’s history and share your vision of the future is a huge asset for your company.?

Takeaway: Get a gauge on the candidate’s potential plans for staying with your organization long-term.?

• Leadership?

If you get the sense that the candidate is committed and has leadership qualities, you’ve knocked it out of the park. Being able to envision the candidate being a significant team member is a great precursor to them climbing the ladder and having potential leadership opportunities in their future. Self-confidence and repeated past successes are signs that this candidate could be a great leader.?

Takeaway: To identify potential future leaders, check their experience for evidence of confidence and repetitive success.?

• Cultural Fit?

Hiring individuals who will fit in with your organization’s culture is your best bet at making a smooth transition for the new hire and the rest of your team. Unfortunately, candidates don’t always show their “truest selves” during the interview process, so it can be difficult to get a feel for what their personality is really like. That’s why it’s important to do your homework – check out their social media presence and do reference checks to get a better picture of the person you’re considering for the position.?

Takeaway: Do reference checks and search the candidate’s social media presence to determine whether they’ll be a good fit.?