Hire the Best Candidates and Send the Right Message

Most everyone would agree that the employment market has taken some dramatic turns over the past 5 years. This year has brought about increased hiring of technology professionals, and has caused increased competition for the best candidates. Take a minute to evaluate your hiring process and ask the question, “Are we efficient, effective and successful when it comes to hiring candidates?” If you answered "no" (or hesitated before answering), it may be time to tweak your hiring program. 

In this market, the candidates that are the best of the best are not on the market for long before becoming re-employed or making a career change. Your company’s ability to interview and make decisions in a timely manner will dictate your success in locating and hiring the best candidates. If your hiring process takes weeks, and decisions aren’t made quickly, the best candidates will not wait for you. In addition, when you have decided to extend an offer, put your best foot forward on the offer and minimize the “back and forth” time of negotiation. If the candidate knows that you have made your strongest offer “out of the gate”, there won’t be days or weeks of haggling.

Remember that word travels fast, especially in the employment market where networking is key. Candidates talk to candidates, and if your hiring process is slow, word may spread and hinder your ability to meet the best candidates. On the other hand, if you have an efficient and effective selection process, word of mouth may help you attract the best candidates. Overall, the more streamlined, timely and efficient your hiring process is, the better your overall success rate will be in hiring the best candidates.