When filling job vacancies, employers use valuable time and resources to find the perfect candidate. In addition to the time it takes for interviews, they use their valuable time in checking employment references and the background of the candidates they choose to speak with. When the process is complete, they are left with the monumental decision on which candidate they should hire for the job. If the wrong choice is made, even more resources will be lost in employee orientation and job training. It is necessary for the employer to keep some key criteria in mind in making their final choice.
The employer must assess the candidate’s level of knowledge in their industry, as well as the experience they have from previous employment. This will help to determine the amount of additional training the candidate will need in order to fill the job effectively. Their current job skills may also have an impact on training needs, potentially saving both time and money in job adaptation. The more experienced the candidate is, the faster they will be able to learn the employer’s procedures for the job position. Administering skill tests such as typing and general knowledge quizzes will give a good indication of how well the candidate will fit in the job.
In checking the candidate’s employment record, the employer is able to see if they are reliable, with good work attendance. Speaking with previous employers gives an idea of job performance to determine if the candidate did the work required and produced quality work. In addition, the previous employer can give their assessment of the candidate’s attitudes and work ethic, as well as how the candidate handled stress, frustration, or any conflict in the work place. It is important to know if the candidate has a propensity toward aggression, causing the conflicts that arise. The candidate’s communication skills are also a consideration in order to prevent any misunderstandings in job duties and instructions.
The employer should be sure that the candidate is a good match with the organizational culture as well as the people he or she will be working with. With the diversity in the work place, it is important that the candidate is able to work well with others in order to grow team bonds to maintain productivity.
After making these initial assessments, the employer is able to narrow down the field of candidates in order to choose the perfect one.
This post is brought to you by the good folks at Summit Assessment Solutions.
Photo credit: Bernard Pollack