Question:
Our Marketing Director is hiring a new Marketing Manager. As part of the interviewing process they have all of the marketing staff involved in the interview process. The staff seems a little reluctant. Is this format a good idea?
Answer:
This type of interviewing process (akin to a group interview) is becoming more common in hiring. While the staff should not be making the final decision, their input on the individuals being interviewed can be invaluable. After all, they will be the ones working for the new person. This type of interview allows the potential Manager to ask and answer questions regarding the true work of the department and allows the hiring manager to see some interaction with the actual staff.
Keep in mind, if the direct reports don't like the candidate, but the hiring manager does and hires that candidate, the new person may start a job with their reports already resenting him or her. If you decide to involve staff in the interview, there should be a list of pre-selected questions drawn up beforehand - assign a question or two to each staff member if you conduct the interview in a panel format. By using pre-determined questions this maintains consistency among candidates and prevents the interview from getting off target.
You also mention that this idea is causing some angst with the staff. If that’s because the staff is uncomfortable with being in the interview, don’t force the issue. If they don't want to participate in the actual interview at least give them the opportunity to meet the final candidates while the process is ongoing.
Recruitment is a critical HR function. Strategic HR, inc. knows that finding and keeping talented employees is the key to company survival. That’s why our Talent consultants utilize a variety of resources to help clients source, screen and select the best candidates and employees. Please visit our Recruitment page for more information on how we can help you effectively and efficiently find your next employee.
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Debbie Hatke, MA, SPHR is a Senior Human Resources Management Consultant and Talent Strategy Manager with Strategic Human Resources, Inc. (http://www.StrategicHRinc.com). If you have questions or comments about this article, you can contact Debbie at Debbie@StrategicHRinc.com. |
