Hiring mistakes can be costly and time-consuming. After all that work you’ve done screening candidates, you want to feel like you made the right hiring decision. To ensure you value both your time and your applicants’ time, avoid the following hiring mistakes with our helpful tips.
1. Not Running a Background Check
A background check is an essential step in the hiring process. You want to know that the person you’re hiring doesn’t have a criminal record or anything that would make them unsuitable for the job. Unfortunately, many employers skip this step and pay the price later.
Don’t be one of those employers! A simple background check now can save trouble down the road. Find a reliable screening company you trust, like ScoutLogic Screening, and use the same company for all of your hires to keep your processes consistent.
2. Not Checking References
When you’re hiring someone, you want to be sure they’re qualified for the job. One way to do that is to check their references. However, many employers don’t take this step.
If you’re not checking references, you could make a big mistake. You might hire someone who’s not as qualified as they claim to be, or worse, someone with a bad work history. Checking references is a simple way to avoid these problems.
Ask for at least three references from each candidate, and follow up with each one. It only takes a few minutes on the phone, but it could save you a headache later.
3. Hiring Too Quickly
When you find a great candidate, hiring them on the spot can be tempting. After all, you don’t want to lose them to another employer. However, hiring too quickly can be a mistake.
Instead of rushing to hire, take your time and get to know the candidate. Ask questions about their experience and their goals. See if they’re genuinely a good fit for the position before deciding. There’s nothing so urgent that hiring the wrong person is the right choice.
4. Not Defining the Role
Before starting your search, take some time to define the role you’re looking to fill. It will help hone your focus when reviewing resumes and interviewing candidates.
Think about the skills and experience you’re looking for in a candidate. What qualifications are necessary? What would be nice to have? Once you know what you’re looking for, start your search with a clear idea of the perfect candidate in mind.
5. Failing to Train
When you hire a new employee, prioritize training them properly. Your new hire will be more productive and more engaged in their work if they clearly understand their role.
6. Not Following Up
After you’ve made a hiring decision, follow up with your new employee to welcome them to the team and help them get acclimated to their new role.
Set up a meeting with your new hire to go over their job duties and expectations. Introduce them to their co-workers and show them around the office. Then, set weekly meetings, so they don’t get lost in the shuffle after being onboarded.
Final Thoughts
Hiring mistakes can be costly, but by following these tips, you can avoid them. Set your new employee up for success, and reap the rewards.
