How not to lose top candidates to other employers
The Quest for Top-Notch Staff

We all know that in today's market good candidates are hired swiftly. In fact, an above average candidate is hired or has secured a position in about 3 weeks.

Finding top-notch applicants who may eventually be first-rate employees involves skill, timing and a wee bit of luck. Since the competition for candidates is fierce, it is important to streamline the recruiting process.

Here are some questions that need to be reviewed to ensure that your organization is reaching its potential to recruit, interview and hire the best candidates without delay.

Do you...

Lose candidates because the process took too long?

Have procedures and protocols in place to make sure this doesn't happen?

Review resumes and respond promptly to candidates?

Spend too much time with candidates that don't fit the bill?

Interview every candidate that sends a resume?

Make decisions punctually?

Whether you're advertising for a position on your own or working with a recruiter, make sure that resumes are reviewed in a timely manner. Sort the resumes into two stacks, one for those that look perfect and the other for those that look good.

Interview efficiently

Save time and conduct phone interviews with only three to five candidates. Initially, interview no more than three candidates. If the candidate isn't the right fit, limit the interview to 20 minutes or less. Save time by interviewing only qualified candidates. Conduct thorough background checks and references on the final candidates. Last but not least make the offer.

While these tips are just part of a successful hiring strategy, using them will decrease your chances of losing top candidates to other employers. Remember, the way your organization responds to potential employees speaks volumes about its customer service philosophy.

Everyone has experienced poor customer service at some time. Step into some retail stores, restaurants and yes, even doctor's offices and you can spot it right away.

Here are some helpful reminders for your employees who might need a little boost in the customer service area.

1) Take a deep breath and smile. Smiling comes across the phone line and automatically puts the caller at ease.

2) Use the name of your practice or company. Avoid answering, "Doctor's office". It's too generic and doesn't really tell the caller where they called.

3) Introduce yourself. First name is adequate. This implies caring and helps to build a relationship.

4) Volunteer your service. Ask the caller how you can help. This keeps the communication flowing and reinforces customer service.

5) Use the caller's name. Referring to the caller by name personalizes the inquiry and makes the caller feel welcome.

6) Sign off with a friendly closing. Before ending the phone call, thank the caller or wish the caller a good day.

M.E.D. is available round-the-clock to assist you with your staffing needs. Call us today!

West Port office: (314) 991-8806

Visit our web site at www.medstl.com

Q: "How can I spot a candidate who is 'giving me a wee bit of Blarney' in an interview?"

A: It can sometimes be difficult to detect when someone is not being truthful. Just because someone fidgets, stutters, or lacks eye contact, does not necessarily mean they are being dishonest. It's more symptomatic of nervousness.

If your instinct tells you that the person is not being candid, make a note to carefully review all the applicant's information again after the interview. It's important to take good notes during the interview in order to compare it to the application and resume. Criminal background checks and references will also help to verify an applicant's past work history.

During the interview, ask pointed questions. For example, if an applicant states proficiency in a particular software package, ask specific questions that pertain to that area or have the candidate sit down and use the software during the interview.

Send your questions for the Ask the Recruiter column to:

Mary Beth Nibberich
Executive Director
medmarybeth@yahoo.com

"Smiling comes across the phone line and automatically puts the caller at ease."