by Stanton Chase Staff
In business, we rarely have the luxury of time. If something needs to get done, it usually has to get done by yesterday. Nowhere is this truer than when it comes to hiring.
Key senior positions take the longest to fill, not only because it takes time to find quality, but because companies themselves often don't know exactly who they are looking for and why. The more information you have and the earlier you obtain it, the more quickly you can find the right person for your firm.
Tips for speeding up a search:
- Be prepared
Even before a vacancy occurs, have the HR department perform their research. Knowing beforehand where to look for top candidates when the need arises is a shortcut that does not cut corners. For instance, certain universities are renowned in particular fields, and often the one best suited for your search may be located across the country. If you've done the legwork beforehand, you won't waste time. Don't react to a situation; plan for it.
- Look to the Long Term
Related to the above point but more strategic in nature, it is important for companies to keep in close touch with their HR departments. Knowing what future business development opportunities the organization is considering, and including HR on the decision process can dramatically reduce lead times for finding leaders when the time comes to implement those strategic plans for expansion and new directions.
- Recycle
No, don't recycle the same old candidates. But stacks of resumes deemed inappropriate or underqualified for one position may contain gem candidates for other positions down the road. By culling these stacks for such potential, and making and keeping in contact, a recruiter can get a head start down the road. The key is to communicate with these candidates. Explain why they weren't considered for the current position. Then, make sure they understand that you are still interested for the future.
