Selection: A Two-Way Street
The main purpose of an interview is to learn about the candidate’s skills, abilities, and knowledge, right? Of course. But that’s only part of the story. It’s just as important for the candidates to learn about you and your organization so they can make a decision about whether they want to work with you. I think we can all agree that there is a big difference between job candidates/new hires that are “able” and those who are “willing.”
Inevitably, we all put our best foot forward during the hiring process. The candidate wants to be chosen and the hiring manager wants to fill the open position and get back to work. However, it’s important to be honest about the challenges that the candidate will face. It’s true that you run the risk of scaring them off if you’re candid about the bureaucratic red tape, high pressure deadlines or lack of promotions. But given the high price you pay for hiring mistakes (time, money, productivity), it’s better to know now rather than later that there isn’t a good fit.
One way to determine what to share with the candidate is to talk to the previous incumbent to uncover any key challenges, concerns, or even the reason they left. During a recent training class, an example was given about a newly hired manager who stormed off the job after two stress-filled months based on the company’s “high level of dysfunction.” Everyone on the selection panel probably knew it was a high pressure job and didn’t want to/think to share that with the candidate. As a result, that company was starting the interview process over again (and may have lost some highly qualified candidates due to the delay).
Selection is a two-way street. A hiring decision creates a partnership between the candidate/employee and the company. It’s important that both sides have the facts so they can make informed decisions. Otherwise, you’d better buckle up because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.
If you are interested in learning more about improving interviews and selection, please contact Kammy Haynes.
Happy Holidays
As 2005 comes to a close, Warren and Kammy would like to thank you for your friendship, business and interest. We wish you and your family health, happiness, and prosperity in the coming year.
For a PDF version of this newsletter, please click here. If you are unable to read pdf files, download the free Adobe Reader program.