I am an employer who has for many years personally interviewed thousands of job applicants. Naturally, being very particular about who I hire, I’d like to pass on some not so obvious tips that will give you an edge in finding that right person for the job and avoid all of the problems associated with hiring the wrong individual.
* Google the persons name for red flags - I’m looking for comments or posts made to websites or groups. Is this person a 24/7 online game player? Are they supporting some radical political group?
* MySpace & Facebook profiles – You would be amazed at how many people I haven’t hired because of what they have posted for the world to see online.
* Review their voice mail messages - I recently returned a call to a job applicant whose voice mail recording was, “Hey, not available to talk cuz I’ve been out partying all night – leave a message – back at you.” I simply hung up without leaving a message.
* Email addresses – If the applicants email address is partyanimal at abc.com or drinkallnight at abc.com, you might want to think twice about this potential candidate.
* They “get” you - Has the applicant reviewed your website and understand the mission and vision statements. Ideally, the job applicant has does this without your prompting.
* In the beginning - The first interview is about you the employer! I am constantly amazed by the number of applicants that are all about “me, me, me.
* Beware of jealous boyfriends, girlfriend and spouses - I recently had a jealous boyfriend want to give me the third degree about who I was and why I was calling. He very effectively insured that his girlfriend did not get a job with me.
* Never a place and time - Does the applicant cuss? If they do in a series of job interviews, I assure you it is only the tip of the iceberg.
* Vehicle review – Have someone take a look at the vehicle driven by the job applicant as this is often a reflection of the individual. I also keep an eye out for red flag bumper stickers. Do they have a strong political or social opinions plastered on the bumper? In America it’s ok if they do, and in America it’s also ok if I don’t hire them!
-Jim
© 2009 SuccessCo.com
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