Recruiting and selection of candidates is often a time-consuming and complex process. But, it’s necessary to use the best judgement when hiring people because they will become a vital part of your team. How can you know you are talking with a good candidate? Here are some common characteristics to look for when you are hoping to hire the best.

Passion for the Industry

A candidate who demonstrates the desire to learn all he or she can about the industry is someone worth hiring. This is often seen in a candidate who is attending college to earn a degree in the field, has been part of a training program, or stays up-to-date about the industry through participation in associations and conferences.

Long-Term Potential

Does the candidate have a track record of staying with previous employers for more than a year? Is the work history showing progression of skills and taking on new responsibilities? These can be the signs of a candidate who has long term and even future leadership potential.

Professional Work Ethics

A candidate who is worth the time to get to know is someone who proves high work ethics and standards across a career history. This is often evident in the candidate’s personality and posture during the interview. References can also indicate a candidate’s work ethics. For example, did the candidate furnish a 2-week notice when resigning?

Well Connected

People who are industry influencers are often those who are well connected both in their personal and professional lives. Look up a candidate on social networking sites to see who is in their networks. Impressive candidates are connected with prominent thought leaders and respected colleagues.

Responsive and Respectful

When evaluating the types of candidate characteristics to choose, consider that responsiveness and respectfulness can go a long ways towards building your team. A candidate who is responsive takes charge of his work, while being respectful enables him to blend in well with others.

Leadership Ability

Your goal as an employer is to get the best possible candidate for your company, but don’t forget about the long term objectives. Look for candidates who have the ability to lead others as they will make valuable additions as they can be developed in the future management team.

As you start reviewing the characteristics of candidates, use skills and personality assessments to bring out the true nature of each person before you hire them. Don’t simply rely on the resume. Check references and screen each candidate carefully.

About Staffing Resources

Staffing Resources, established in 1985, is a privately held Atlanta-based corporation and a certified Female Business Enterprise. We provide a wide range of full- and part-time employees to businesses, associations, government and non-profit organizations in the metro Atlanta area.