Why do you need to recruit?

Actually, this is one of the most common questions from job seekers. The answers vary but often include:

• To replace someone who has left.
• To bring in new skills and expertise.
• To expand the team due to increased workload.

Regardless of the reason, it raises more questions.

If it's a replacement recruitment, why did the predecessor leave or why is leaving? Is it because there are problems in the workplace, the predecessor wasn't suitable for the role (and may have left a mess behind), or is it due to personal reasons (long commute, a better job elsewhere, illness, retirement, or something else)? I believe that conducting an exit interview with the predecessor, if possible, is a good idea. You should also consider what can be communicated while respecting the privacy of the individuals involved.

If you need to bring in new skills, for example, in a startup company entering a new development phase, the job might be quite solitary. In that case, you should be able to present the resources that the new employee will have. Can they bring in consultants for support? Is there anyone in the company who has expertise in the area and can provide guidance? What kind of materials are available for self-study?

If the workload is high, it's important to prioritize recruitment because there is a genuine need for someone to alleviate the stress. The reasons for stress could be varied, such as business growth or, conversely, being understaffed due to strategic decisions or financial difficulties. If the business is not doing well, what other advantages does the job offer? Conversely, if it's thriving, what are you doing to avoid growing pains in the business?

As a job seeker, this information is crucial. Some candidates prefer to work at a fast pace, while others do not. Some are most interested in the technologies used, while for others, leadership and culture are central. Some prefer the support of a team, while others prefer to work independently. Some are willing to take professional risks, while many seek stability. That's why I always ask the question:

Why do you need to recruit?