Small companies failing to get the right staff

SMALL companies make decisions based on whether or not they like the personal qualities of candidates, rather than the skills they have, say experts.

Jonny Cainer at Manchester-based specialist recruiters Marketing Professionals UK said it could be the wrong tactic:

Smaller companies often focus too heavily on a candidateís personality instead of their actual skills. At some point bosses must get the balance right and decide whether they want to employ a potential friend and have a good laugh in the office or grow the business and make bigger profits.

The clich that people make up their mind about a candidate within the first 15 seconds is all too true. Remember that a poor interviewer reflects badly on the company. A shoddy interview process will get on the industry grapevine and spread negative perceptions about your business.

The most common error made is insisting on recruiting from the same industry sector. This closed mentality means lots of businesses are missing out on star performers.

Itís unrealistic for smaller firms to have an Alan Sugar-style recruitment process. They must make the most out of the resources available.

Cainer has five key tips when interviewing candidates:
1) Write a detailed job description of what you want the person to do.

2) Decide on the skills you are looking for in the person to do the job - decide which are essential and which are desirable.

3) Allocate a score to essential and desirable skills to compare candidates at a later date.

4) Plan a structured interview to ensure you cover everything you intend to, regain control and avoid getting side-tracked

5) Have a panel two or more interviewers to overcome any subjectivity. Make sure that each candidate is seen by the same panel! Ends

For further information, interview or photography please contact Jonny Cainer at Marketing Professionals UK on 0161 236 6789