7 Steps to Successful Hiring ©
Question: What is the best way to deal with problem employees?
Simplistic answer: Don’t hire them.
Helpful answer: Good hiring practices.
Best answer: Follow the seven steps to successful hiring.
Good hiring practices cannot eliminate employment problems. Successful hiring can reduce those problems. The seven steps on the next two pages are the key to such success. Some of the steps are obvious. Others are frequently ignored. All are necessary.
1st Step: First understand the job!
· Learn from experience – yours and others.
o Analyze the job description.
o Evaluate past evaluations.
o Talk to those who had the job.
o Review past exit interview notes.
o Talk to colleagues and customers.
o Value experience and input.
2nd Step: Answer this question – what is the job?
· Write a good job description – make sure it covers:
o Job title
o Task summary
o Qualifications
o Reporting responsibilities
· Decide if the job is needed:
o Has the business changed so that the position is not necessary?
o Will changing conditions soon render the job obsolete?
o Can duties and responsibilities feasibly be transferred to others?
o Can the position be combined with another?
o Is an independent contractor more feasible for the tasks?
3rd Step: Filter for quality and fit.
· Read cover letters and resumés with a critical eye.
· Evaluate work history.
· Design a good application form.
o Draft application form while looking at job analysis.
o Use closed questions.
o Ask for absolute job criteria.
o Don’t ask questions that violate the law.
· Evaluate returned applications.