The next time you have an open position, you might be in a hurry to get any warm body on the sales floor. However, if you take your time and plan for the new hire in advance, you can end up with a much better worker.
Think through these three basic steps when you’re preparing to bring a new team member on board to find the best candidate for your store.
1. Decide what you’re looking for
Before you can advertise an open position or interview interested candidates, you must have an idea of the traits you want the new employee to have. Details that should be decided include pay, expected number of shifts, necessary work experience and general responsibilities. If it’s a new position, you can determine how it fits within the chain of command and your current management lineup.
2. Spread the word
Once you have a description of the position and its requirements prepared, it’s time to let the world know that you’re hiring. To start, place signs in your window displays and on message boards outside the store.
The Internet can be an invaluable resource when it comes to seeking out new talent for your store. Announce the job opening on all of your social media accounts, including the link to an online application if possible. Craigslist is an increasingly common way for people to find jobs and it doesn’t cost anything for businesses to add a post. You’ll likely receive responses from spam or fake accounts, but if you take the time to sift through the emails, your may come across your new star employee. If your budget allows, try to have the position listed on recruiting websites like Indeed.com or Monster.com as well.
3. Remain observant during the interview
After you determine which candidates you want to meet in person, you should prepare a list of interview questions. Although the resume can tell you what positions this person has held over the years, it’s a good idea to ask for more details. One of the most effective ways to learn how his or her previous experience could benefit your business is by inquiring, “What skills helped you be successful at your former company that you can apply to this retail environment?”
There are a few personality traits that you should be on the lookout for as well. RetailCustomerExperience.com recommended hiring managers take note of applicants who appear confident, friendly and respectful. Confidence is important for retail employees because they should be proactive about talking to customers and be able to answer their questions with conviction. Additionally, people who have flexible schedules are valuable in the industry, especially if your store operates outside of traditional business hours.
Fast Company explained how natural soft skills are more vital than technical knowledge when hiring new retail employees. Since most of your staff are directly interacting with customers frequently, they should come off as energetic, social and pleasant – without it seeming forced.
