In the aftermath of the COVID-19 layoffs, many companies assume that now is the time to be pickier than ever when hiring. After all, with the number of available candidates has risen dramatically, it’s easy to assume that finding a skilled professional with every one of your must-haves will be easier.
However, rigid requirements don’t always yield positive results. Finding a great new hire requires more than a laundry list of hard skills. Plus, if you go that route, you could miss out on exceptional talent simply because their experience doesn’t check all of your theoretical boxes.
Luckily, by going a different route, you can find standout candidates quickly and efficiently. If you genuinely want to land the best people, here’s what you need to try.
Narrow Down the Must-Haves
If you want to find top talent, your first step is to loosen, not tighten, your requirements. Limit your must-haves to skills that are genuinely required on day one, or that can’t be learned efficiently on-the-job, or through any training programs you may offer.
Many candidates won’t apply if they don’t have 100 percent of what you’re requesting, even if they could reasonably thrive in the role. By reducing your must-haves list, you’re more likely to receive applications from these individuals.
Focus on Potential and Mindset
Being a great employee isn’t always about experience or education. While a degree from an impressive university or a long work history may seem like a sure bet, that may not be the case.
Instead, focus on potential and mindset. When a candidate has the right core skills, is highly enthusiastic, has a positive outlook, and is willing to learn, they may have the ability to outperform a highly skilled professional set in their ways or has a negative view over the long-term.
Plus, they may be a more robust culture fit, which can be incredibly important. If an employee meshes with their team and environment, they are more likely to thrive, so that is a critical factor to examine.
Don’t Overlook Soft Skills
Soft skills make a significant difference when it comes to a new hire’s success. The ability to communicate and collaborate effectively can often trump more advanced technical expertise. Additionally, strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills can be an incredible asset, particularly for roles that commonly encounter challenges, involve troubleshooting, or otherwise face the unexpected.
There is a wide selection of soft skills that should be viewed as vital. As a result, hiring managers may want to make these a greater priority, ensuring they get the kind of employee who can navigate the workplace with ease, building strong relationships that will serve them and the company as a whole over the long-term.
Ultimately, focusing on the areas above can substantially impact the quality of your new hires and overall success. If you’d like to learn more about recruitment best practices, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us today.
