Georgia Trend Small Business Guide recently published my article, "Six Best Hiring Practices that Make Sense". I have abbreviated the article below, but to read its entirety go to: www.georgiatrend.com , Small Business Guide, 2012/2013.
1.
Develop a
job description: Make sure your new
employee fits into your long-term business strategy by analyzing your goals
when developing and prioritizing key position requirements.
2.
Recruit
Qualified Applicants: Start by asking associates, friends and family for
applicant referrals or post the opening on your website, business Face Book
page, LinkedIn profile or company Twitter account.
3.
Screen
Candidates: Objectively evaluate resumes
using a screening form based on the job description, tasks and specifications;
make note of any questions or clarifications needed when talking with the
candidates. Sort and categorize applicants as: not qualified, meets minimum
qualifications and meets preferred qualifications.
4.
Interview
Process: Utilize a short phone interview to pre-screen candidates, using
the screening form and by asking your job description related questions.
The
second interview should be at your business, again consisting of job
description related questions. Ask open
ended questions and observe the candidate’s body language while they
respond. Remember you cannot ask a
candidate about their age, race, creed, sexual orientation or marital status. Discuss
your business goals, mission and any important facts about job performance
expectations. At
the end of the interview ask the candidate if they have any questions and
request professional references.
If possible, set up a third
interview with a trusted advisor. Finish by letting candidates know when a decision
will be made. Never hire on the spot and always check references! Take the time to carefully consider all the
candidates interviewed before making a decision. Hiring the wrong person could
be a costly mistake.
5.
Make an
offer: After acceptance of a verbal
offer, follow up with a written offer letter and a date the decision needs to
be made by. Include any employment contingencies, such as passing a background check
or drug screen.
6.
Employee On-boarding:
Complete all federal and state documents as required. For a list of what is
needed, go to: www.SBA.gov and search on “Hiring
Your First Employee”.
Happy Summer!
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