What to Look For On a Resume When Hiring
Spotting the Perfect Hire
Hey there! It's Briana Hanson! Today we're diving into another step in the hiring process: sifting through resumes. If you missed the first few steps, go back to “What to do BEFORE the hire” and “Posting and Creating a Job Description” on the blog!
Hiring is a multi-step process, and the choices you make have a profound impact on your team and your company's success. Let’s walk through the key considerations you need to keep in mind when evaluating resumes and potential candidates. By the end, you'll have a clearer understanding of what to look for and how to avoid the pitfalls I encountered in my own hiring journey!
So, if you're ready to learn from my experiences and gain valuable insights into the hiring process, let's jump right in. We're about to explore what to look for in a resume to find the perfect fit for your team. Let's get started!
How Long Were They at Each Job?
One big hiring mistake I made was overlooking the time candidates spent at their previous jobs. I hired someone who had multiple jobs, each lasting just one year. At first, I thought it was impressive because they had diverse experiences across various industries. However, it turned out that they had trouble getting along with coworkers, and this pattern was a recurring issue. The lesson here? Look for candidates with longer tenures at their previous jobs, preferably two years or more. Commitment speaks volumes.
References Matter
I used to skip checking references, assuming candidates would only provide positive ones. However, calling references can reveal surprises, and it can be a deciding factor when comparing two great candidates. Don't hesitate to contact former employers, even if they're not listed as references. You might get a more accurate picture of the candidate's work history.
The Significance of a Degree
While some positions require specific degrees, for many roles, it's not about the degree itself but the commitment to completing it. A degree indicates determination, persistence, and the ability to see something through, even if it's not the exact field you end up in. It shows you're willing to tackle something challenging and finish it.
Location Matters
Consider where the candidate lives and whether they're planning to move. Long commutes can lead to issues down the line, affecting productivity and morale. Discuss their willingness to relocate or commute before investing your time in the interview process. Hiring remote employees from different states might be an option, but it involves legal considerations and complexities.
Stalking Social Media
Review a candidate's social media profiles to get a sense of their personality and professionalism. Look for red flags like inappropriate posts or aggressive interactions. Ensure their online presence aligns with your brand and the image you want your employees to project. It's not about judging people; it's about aligning your company's culture with potential hires.
Experience vs. Core Values
Experience doesn't always have to be industry-specific. Consider the core values that matter for your business and the personality traits that align with the role. Certain attributes like being detail-oriented, hardworking, or having excellent multitasking skills are transferable between various positions. Look beyond the job titles on their resumes and focus on the qualities that match your needs.
Grammar and Presentation
A well-structured resume with proper grammar and formatting is a sign of attention to detail. If candidates can't put in the effort to present themselves professionally on their resume, it raises questions about their work ethic and commitment to quality.
Cover Letters and Personal Messages
Cover letters and personalized messages demonstrate genuine interest in your business and the role. It's a strong indicator that the candidate isn't just spraying resumes everywhere but has a sincere desire to work for your company. This extra effort can set them apart from other applicants.
To Sum It All Up
So, there you have it, the first step in the hiring process: decoding resumes. Remember, hiring is more than just selecting the person with the most impressive resume. It's about finding the right fit for your team and your company culture. Stay tuned for more insights in the coming episodes, and don't forget that I'm here to coach you and help you navigate the hiring process.
Follow the “Becoming” podcast for more insights and connect with me on social media. And if you're looking for one-on-one coaching to fine-tune your hiring process, get in touch! Thanks for tuning in, and talk to you soon!
