Many clients report receiving more applicants from larger corporations than in the past. You may be as well. If you’re considering bringing a candidate who has primarily worked for large corporations into your small business, here are four things to consider:

• Are they looking at your opportunity as a bridge job? If you have a short-term need and a candidate can bring near term value, hiring someone who will likely stay for a short period of time can be a win-win. In that case, JESSI Search can discuss options such as temp staffing, to fill your need. If you’re looking to add to your team long-term, this could be a costly mistake. Candidates don’t always realize the impact of cultural differences in a smaller company. They think it’s just what they’re looking for, but oftentimes leave quickly saying, “It was a lot different than I expected.” And sometimes, what they’re really saying is, “I took your position as a bridge while I searched for my ideal position.”
• What is their reason for expressing interest in your opportunity? Candidates say a lot of things based on what they think you want to hear, to prompt an offer. Their enthusiasm can be contagious. Be sure you listen and assess carefully to discern their true motivators for joining your organization.
• Do their behaviors and motivators align with the role and your company culture? Motivation can’t be taught. Motivational fit is important. JESSI Search focuses on another truth and that is, past behavior is the best indicator of future behavior. That’s why our interview process and assessment instruments focus on uncovering examples of past behavior.
• Do they bring the skills to do the job well and continue to grow with your organization? Some skills can be taught, some take time to develop, and some, like work ethic and tenacity cannot be taught. It is very important to validate that the candidate brings the right level of skills for the position to maximize value within your desired timeframe.

JESSI Search uses an assessment as part of our hiring decision-making process. It helps identify an accurate picture of the candidate’s behavior, motivators and competencies, which are key to assessing their ability to move from one environment and culture to another. Specifically, they fit your small business culture. Additionally, our assessment helps validate the interview and will also identify additional competencies to focus on to maximize their performance and possible problem areas.

Hiring is expensive and impacts the team’s time and morale. Making sure you are adding individuals with the right motivation to join and grow with your team is key. At JESSI Search, we welcome your hiring questions. Call us!

“Moving doesn’t change who you are. It only changes the view outside your window.” ~Rachel Hollis