All-4-HR Blog Spot: 6 Ways to Avoid Hiring the Wrong Candidates!

Growing a great company is more about hiring the right candidates than anything else. After all, without great, dependable, committed employees, it is impossible to build and sale great products and/or services less more – great customers. A bad hire affects every aspect of a company, from the employees to the products and/or services, to the customers.

We have all had this experience!

1. Conduct thorough Background Checks - Document all background check results, including conversations with references and past employers. Information should include the name, title of the person contacted, what questions were asked and what answers were given.

2. Reference Checks - Check all References Provided! Investigate all reference information provided by the applicant in the resume and application and keep detailed notes.

3. Do Not Rely On Resumes Only - Some companies review resumes only without asking for a application. Big Mistake! On the application form include a statement for applicants to sign and verify the truth and accuracy of the information provided on the application; including any falsifications, omissions, or misrepresentations of any information are grounds for a rejection of the applicant for employment and/or termination of employment.

4. Have applicants sign an authorization and waiver form allowing previous employers to freely discuss the applicant’s personnel and performance record.

5. If you receive a reference letter instead of the individual’s contact information, do not just accept it without making a quick call to the author of the reference letter. If the previous employer is reluctant to talk indicating a state reference immunity law is in force, remind them the law states any information given is in good faith and protected under the law.