Ever hear the saying, “if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is?” Well, the same holds true for job candidates.

Let’s back up a moment. First, there’s no such thing as the ideal job candidate. As one of the leading staffing services firms in Woodland, CA, Pacific Staffing knows there are highly skilled and experienced candidates who can get the job done and bring plenty of value to the table…but they’re not going to be ideal or perfect. So if a candidate sounds perfect, then, like the saying goes, “if it sounds too good to be true…”

So how can you overcome your quest for perfectionism, while still sourcing a candidate that’s the right fit for you? Here are some tips to consider:

Tip #1: Evaluate the Skills, Habits, and Experiences of Others Who Have Held the Position.

Think about other employees who have held the position you’re hiring for (or a similar one) in the past. What made them successful or not so successful? This will give you some specific strengths and weaknesses to be on the lookout for during the hiring process.

Tip #2: Determine the “Non-Negotiables.”

In other words, what skills, traits, abilities, or accomplishments do you absolutely need to have in your next hire? Is it a healthcare professional with experience in elder care? A paralegal with product liability knowledge? An administrative assistant with exceptional technical skills? Make a list of your top three to five non-negotiables.

Tip #3: Determine Your Wants.

These are those skills or abilities that aren’t required, but you’d like to see in a candidate, such as experience with a certain computer program.

Tip #4: Get a Second Opinion.

Once you uncover a few candidates you think could be a fit, get a second opinion from trusted colleagues or employees. That said, don’t implement a 20-person hiring committee; but by having a few qualified people evaluate a candidate’s attitude and skill level, you’ll be more likely to make a good hiring decision.

Hiring is no easy task. It takes time, energy, and money…and there’s a lot at stake. The right person could take your organization to the next level, while the wrong person could seriously diminish morale. But don’t let your search for the “ideal or perfect candidate” stop you from making a hiring decision. You’ll never find the absolute ideal person; but if you overcome your quest for perfectionism, you will find a lot of great candidates.

Want to Outsource the Hiring Process? 

If you do, let Pacific Staffing know. As one of the leading staffing services firms in Woodland, CA, we can take the hassle out of hiring – so you get the people you need, when you need them. Contact Pacific Staffing today to learn more.