Finding the right candidate to fill an open position can be challenging, but it should not be difficult. Before deciding there are no qualified candidates, ask your team this question: Are we making it too difficult? With the abundant amount of talent in the marketplace, hiring managers should be asking this every time they can’t fill an open position. Over the last few years, we’ve identified several components that can hinder a hiring manager from filling an open position. Below we’ve compiled a list of common roadblocks, which includes tips on how to avoid them:
- Poor Job Description & Unrealistic Expectations: Sometimes, in the case of trying to find the right candidate, it dwindles down to a poorly written job description and unrealistic expectations. This might sound silly, but it has been our experience that this situation happens more often than it should. The job details must be determined and agreed upon by all parties, including the hiring manager, internal department head and main supervisor. This includes a realistic job description, approved candidate qualifications and competitive salary range/expectations. When all parties involved have different expectations, it’s almost impossible to fill an open position.
- Being too Picky: A few years back, hiring managers could be pickier about who they interviewed and hired, because the market was flooded with talent. The crème of the crop was easily plucked and placed, but that strategy won’t work today. Top talent won’t wait for a company to make up their mind while other jobs are available. Being too picky can definitely lead to unfilled positions.
- Relying too much on Technology: The online component is great, but let’s not forget how a little human interaction can be just as powerful, especially when you need to fill an open position. Employers have to network/interact with the talent. Looking at resumes online will only provide certain details and if you’re struggling with filling that open position, you may have to change your strategy.
- Collecting Big Data: Collecting resumes via electronically is great, but then what happens? How do you know your processes haven’t let exceptional candidates slip by? By not having the appropriate checks and balances, to uncover key talent, you might be hurting your chances to fill open position.
Remember, its hard work finding any candidate so keep your process simple and efficient. By following these easy guidelines, you’ll get better results and fewer open positions. And if you find you’re too bogged down to utilize these tactics, find a reputable, recruiting partner to help you get back on track.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR, Ingrid Moore
Ingrid Moore is the Founder and CEO of Corporate Resources of Illinois, an employment & staffing agency located in Schaumburg, IL who assists employers with finding the right hire. For more info, follow us on our LinkedIn Company Page, or follow us Corporate Resources of Illinois‘s Google+ page.
