What's the quickest way to learn how to hire an employee? TIA [DNO]

> dno

Hi,

While there is no quick'n'easy way to learn how to hire someone, I can give you some tips that may help you.

The first thing to do is to write down the specific skills you need the person to have in order to do the job. You will use this list in your individual evaluations. This will also help you clarify in your own mind exactly what skills you're looking for, what you're willing to teach and which skills are not negotiable.

When you place your ad, do not specify skills except in broad general categories. If they don't know exactly what you're looking for, they'll have a tougher time hoodwinking you. The exception is if there are specific certificates required to legally do the job or a certain level achieved to qualify for the job.

If you allow drop ins to pick up an application, make SURE they fill it out right then and there...no taking it home for someone else to do. This will tell you how prepared they are.

People who are not in the know also let their true selves show more when doing things this way so you get a feel for how they respond to stress, their grooming and manners and so on. If they chat easily with you and others (but not to excess) this is a positive for most positions.

Before you talk to anyone about a position you MUST learn the questions/subjects you CANNOT, legally, discuss. You must also know that some applications for people in certain age/status categories, must be kept indefinitely so don't just file 13 any applications. It's a good idea to keep all applications for at least 6 months to a year.

If the position involves specific skills such as typing or welding, make sure you either test or see a certificate of competency, depending on what's applicable.

At the interview, offer a cup of coffee or glass of water if you wish, make a bit of small talk to relax the interviewee and lead naturally into the interview. You ask, they answer. Then you ask them if they have any questions. Be prepared to field things like "Do I have the job?" and what rate of pay, what hours will I work, and is there insurance coverage available. These are normally covered in the hired phase in depth but a general, noncommittal answer here is acceptable.

Never hire a person on the first interview at the time of the interview. Tell them they'll hear from you by phone by ...whatever time/date you feel comfortable with.

ALWAYS get 3 references (even personal ones if they have no job experience) and CHECK THEM OUT. This protects you in case they create problems down the road. Trust me...don't fudge here. Be sure to write down what the person says when you interview them in response to your written questions.

When the person you hire reports to work, the first thing you do is all the paper work. Prior to this time you should get an employer package from your state offices and one from the Federal Government with the forms you'll need in them. They're usually free but you must ask for them, usually.

After that's all done, show them around, introduce them to people and so on. Good Luck!

Sandi