For HR and hiring managers, finding new employees rarely goes beyond the traditional résumé and interview process. However, sometimes the best candidate for the job doesn’t know the opportunity exists.
Resume in envelope with pen on table – business concept.
Since it is the hiring manager’s job to recognize top talent, it’s important that they look beyond the interview room, keeping their eyes open for untapped potential in even the most unexpected places. This can include existing employees within your own organization, in which case fostering their continued growth and regularly assessing their strengths is key.
Striking Gold in a Bowling Alley
Fun fact: One of TempWorks Software’s most valuable employees never formally sought out a position at our company. One evening after a particularly stressful workday a few years ago, several members of TempWorks’ leadership team decided to go out to our local bowling alley.
For whatever reason, our lane continued to experience technical difficulties all night. The attendant on duty, Ryan, serviced our lane each time, demonstrating exemplary customer service through his patience, humor, and friendliness. Ryan never displayed frustration, even when the issues continued, in spite of his best efforts.
Being able to observe Ryan’s positive attitude and customer service skills in a real-world situation showcased his work ethic and personality in a way that never would have come across on paper. It also demonstrated the true way he would interact with a customer, and not just a show for an interview.
That, coupled with the technology prowess he demonstrated working with the alley’s software, made Ryan the kind of IT team member we were looking for. After interviewing Ryan, we offered him a staffing support technician position, and since then, he’s been promoted three times, proving himself to be one of our most dedicated and trusted employees.
Tips for Finding Talent In and Out of the Office
Finding talent in unexpected places rests on a hiring manager’s ability to keep his or her eyes and mind open. Finding the common denominator between what skills are essential to the position you’d like to fill and the people you encounter, will help you determine who will be a great fit for your organization. Whether it’s a skillful salesperson who convinced you to add to your purchase or an organized office manager who made your meeting go smoothly, some people will inherently exhibit the skills you’re looking for without even trying.
The unique opportunity presented here is an unfiltered look at the true face a potential candidate will put forth to clients. While the traditional interview process will continue to be your main source of new talent, take advantage of the opportunity to observe individuals doing exemplary work outside of your office or industry. While it’s easy to fudge a bit on a résumé, or put on your best face in an interview, real-world tests can’t be faked.
Tomorrow we’ll hear more from Dourgarian on the topic of transferable skills.
David Dourgarian is the CEO of TempWorks Software, based in Eagan, MN. His accomplishments within the company include launching the payroll funding and payroll processing divisions, as well as engineering a substantial software partnership with Sterling National Bank.