With college graduation just behind us, you may be experiencing an increase in resumes from recent grads. While many are eager and ready to learn, they also pose a challenge for employers looking to hire them due to their lack of work history.
But as a leading Kansas City staffing services firm, Morgan Hunter knows there are steps you can take to effectively interview and evaluate them to ensure you find and hire the right candidate. Here are 5 tips to help you:
Tip #1: Ease Them Into the Process.
Entry level candidates require a bit of a softer approach than those candidates with more experience. So before you start the interview, explain to them what to expect during the hiring process and take them on a quick tour of the office, introducing them to a few key people. By doing so, not only will you make them feel more at ease, but you’ll also get a chance to evaluate their listening and interpersonal skills in action.
Tip #2: Focus on the Soft Skills.
While a recent college graduate may not have an extensive work history, you can certainly evaluate soft skills, such as communication, problem solving, and organizational abilities, by asking questions such as:
- What social media platforms are you familiar and comfortable with?
- Tell me about a time when you faced challenges working on a group project. How did you overcome the situation?
- As a student, how did you juggle multiple classes and assignments each week?
Tip #3: Evaluate Motivation.
Keep in mind that skills can be learned; drive and enthusiasm cannot. So evaluate a candidate’s level of motivation by asking questions about their extracurricular activities in college, career goals, and what drives them to succeed. The answers you get will help to reveal their values, work ethic, and motivation.
Tip #4: Find Out if They Did Their Homework.
Researching the company ahead of time is “interviewing 101,” even for an entry level candidate. So find out if they did their homework by asking questions such as:
- What do you know about our company?
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What questions do you have for me?
Tip #5: Ask for References.
Recent graduates may not have references from past employers to offer you. So if they don’t, ask for references from professors and other personal reference sources, such as coaches, advisors, and mentors. Also, don’t just ask for them. Be sure to verify them, as well.
Want to Outsource the Hiring Process?
If you don’t have the time to source candidates, screen resumes, and conduct interviews, give Morgan Hunter a call. As a leading Kansas City staffing services firm, we can handle the process for you – and help you find and hire your next great employee. Contact Morgan Hunter today if you’d like to learn more.