“I can’t make a decision because you have presented 2 great candidates – if we hired one of them we’d always wonder whether the other would have been better....”
This was the exact words that came out of the employers’ mouth after we had carefully and meticulously conducted a thorough and rigorous recruitment campaign for them, providing a strong shortlist. So strong in fact that they simply couldn’t (and didn’t) make the final decision. Whilst the team rightly pointed out that we had done such a stellar job we made it difficult for the employer to choose, I found the situation fascinating.
How does it sound to you?
Ludicrous? Funny? Typical?
At first, I assumed that really they just didn’t want to hire anyone, that it was a total waste of time and resources because they clearly had no intention of hiring – I mean surely one candidate stands ahead of the other for their needs?
But as I reflected on this, I wondered how many other small businesses are letting indecision ruin their recruitment success. Have you missed out on great candidates because you couldn’t decide what you were looking for or which applicant was the best fit for the team?
I am sure we all at some point in running a business have been crippled by indecision, for fear of failure, reluctance to face the unknown or purely because we were too busy to make that decision a priority.
It comes as no surprise that a poor recruit costs your business time, money and energy, so why let something as easy to overcome as indecision play a factor in getting the best possible staff for your team?
Here are my top tips for avoiding and overcoming indecision to make sure you maximise your chances of success when recruiting for staff:
If you are clear on what you’re looking for at the outset, focused in your campaign about the essential priorities and follow a consistent and systemised approach, there will emerge a clear leader.
If you really are splitting hairs between the top applicants, always go with the one whose values are most closely aligned and who is a better cultural fit overall. That will undoubtedly give them the winning edge when it comes to being a great workplace addition.
An Invitation
If you’d like to connect with other business owners, leaders and managers, I’d love for you to join us inside our free Facebook Group where you can connect with other like minded business owners, leaders and managers to discuss all things HR:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/hrsupportaustralia
Secure Your Place for Just $47
In this 90 minute Masterclass you will learn the exact step by step process to conducting reviews that inspire action and drive performance, even if i's something you've struggled with or avoided in the past.