Reputation Can Be Everything: Take Your Hiring Process Seriously
Take your hiring practices seriously. Even the largest most successful companies have taken a fall due to their lack of carefully choreographed interviews. Employers so often are under the false impression that they are the only individual conducting the interview. When a candidate walks in for an interview, however, they will be considering your organization's professionalism and courtesy. Will you pass their test? Many organizations do not fully consider the implications of not taking the structure of the hiring process seriously and, in fact, in one company's case it led to their demise.
A leading technology company actually closed their doors. It was a successful company in all aspects but its hiring process. Their products were cutting edge and they led the industry for many years. Their employees on the inside were satisfied with their positions and from the inside looking outward everything equated to a thriving corporation. They reached a crossroads to future success when getting a candidate to sit through an interview was impossible. The company employed substandard hiring practices and the word permeated the industry. Professionals that interviewed reported such inappropriate practices as:
Inappropriate Hiring Practices:
- Interviewing the wrong candidate for the wrong job
Routinely in this company a candidate's experience was mismatched to the wrong job opening. There were no checks and balances on matching candidates to the appropriate positions.
- Unqualified Interviewer
This company did not take into account who was conducting the interviewing. In most cases the interviewer was either not the hiring manager or had a very narrow knowledge of the industry or job for which the candidate was interviewing.
- Through the Wringer
Candidates were literally put through the wringer. Interviewers in some cases treated these professionals as if the interview process was an initiation into a fraternity.
- Disillusionment Permeates
The company permitted its most disillusioned, cynical employees to, not only continue working but conduct the interview process as well. The interviewees honed in on the skepticism and it colored their perception of the company.
- No Damage Control
Despite managers' knowledge of the rumors surrounding their company, they did not attempt to salvage their reputation in the interview. A candidate would turn to another company despite a great interview or their excitement regarding the job description due to the rumors they had heard surrounding the company.
Many companies do not realize that not only do they need to constantly impress their market but, as well, must always present well to the business community. An absence of pride and respect will be alarmingly transparent to a sharp candidate. The very type of candidate you want to hire. Take some advice and take your hiring practices seriously.
Remember these hiring practice tips:
- The success and quality of a job interview is on the shoulders of the Interviewer
If you have to question whether to have a candidate come in for an interview, ask yourself if you would ask them if you were required to pay a fee. If you would not pay the fee, then do not waste your time or the candidate's.
- Be sure the employee conducting the interview is just as knowledgeable about the industry as the candidate.
This is essential in assuring a successful interview and making a good impression on the candidate.
- Treat the Candidate with Respect
Remember the Candidate should be treated as a guest. You have invited him or her so take the time and show the potential employee courtesy, enthusiasm, and respect.
- Consider Your Company's Reputation
Every interview you conduct brings your company into focus. Every one of your employees that meets the candidate is representing every facet of your company and every tier, right up to your board of directors. Re-examine your comfort level with every individual your candidate may meet.
- Display Your Integrity
Show your concern and professionalism. Always treat others with respect and honesty. This integrity will foster a good working relationship with the professional community and will foster the success of your organization
The company that folded did not adopt one of the guidelines listed above. While the company continued to present exciting new breakthroughs in technology and provided excellent experiences for seasoned employees its reputation eroded away at an administrative level and could not be salvaged. Its reputation in the professional community was soured. The company was dismembered and its name was sold. Its most valued employees went on to found noteworthy companies. Hopefully these executives will take with them knowledge of a lesson learned.