At this time of the year employees are looking to change jobs and employers are looking to employ new employees to either replace those who are leaving or because new positions have been created.
There is a tendency to rush these appointments as the excitement of filling the position overrides the necessary caution which should accompany recruitment. Here are the top 5 things to consider when employing:
- VERIFICATION: Check that the person has obtain the qualifications which is included in their CV. Verify with the academic institution and, if possible, ask for a copy to be sent to you.
- CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS: Verify whether the employee has a criminal record or whether any charges have been brought against him or her. This may be difficult without the permission of the candidate due to the POPI Act but then you make the granting of permission a pre-requirement for the application.
- REFERENCES: Call references provided on the CV and ask insightful questions so that you can ascertain the quality of work and behaviour of the candidate at their previous employment.
- PSYCHOMETRIC TESTING: Many employers do not do psychometric testing when employing. Such testing can be very beneficial when checking to see if the candidate has the behaviour traits required for the position. It is important that there is a significant match or you may find your yourself embarking on performance manage or misconduct proceedings early in the relationship. Or worse still, stuck with an employee who does not fit, does not perform adequately and who is a liability to your company.
- STRUCTURED INTERVIEWS: Perform structured interviews with the same set of questions for each candidate and score the answers so that you can compare like with like. Also note aspects relating to understanding, communication skills and ability to establish a relationship and other non-verbal indicators.
The above points won’t guarantee that you have appointed “the right person on the right seat on the bus”, but they could go some way to eliminate unnecessary frustration, labour issues, and costs. When in doubt, don’t employ!
For more information call Robert Niemand, Managing Director: LabourNet Eastern Cape (Pty) Ltd, on 041 373 2994 or 082 824 7359. He may also be emailed on robertn@labournet.com Find LabourNet Eastern Cape at 176 Cape Rd, Mill Park, Gqeberha, 6001