Human resources teams utilize a variety of strategies for recruiting potential employees. From college fairs to posts on job-seeker websites, companies attempt to spread the word of their organization in any way they can. These groups may be overlooking a crucial aspect of the hiring process, however. HR personnel should focus more on data when making important recruiting decisions. Let's take a look at how data can help organizations make stronger hiring decisions:
Understanding position necessities
Every role within a company requires certain knowledge, skills and abilities. While businesses can create job descriptions to help narrow down their options in terms of candidates, sometimes organizations need to look internally to understand what each profession really needs. HR teams should complete job analyses to better comprehend what traits and qualities make a person successful in a particular role, according to The Society for Human Resource Management. By looking at current employees and their supervisors, company leaders can develop a more well-rounded breakdown of the position, which will inform future hiring decisions. With this practice, HR teams can avoid recruiting people who won't be able to keep up with the various responsibilities of the job.
"HR teams can use data to better understand candidates' job histories."
Delving into the past
Recruiting strategies involving data help HR teams plan for the future, but they also allow them to look into candidates' job and personal histories. Hiring executives can learn even more about applicants by studying their social media profiles, employment records and online resume databases, according to Entrepreneur. This tactic may assist leaders in seeing a more comprehensive picture of each possible hire, as the things people add online can say a lot about their personality and readiness for certain positions.
Comprehending employee satisfaction
Often, recruitment and retention will go hand in hand. One of the first questions job applicants may ask when they come in for an in-person interview is "Are you happy?" Candidates want to enter a position with a positive outlook on their future career there. As a result, it's important for HR teams to ensure they're taking the right steps to keep current workers happy and on board, according to ERE Media. Whether that's organizing team lunches or company-wide outings, events that encourage collaboration and togetherness will go a long way in the eyes of potential employees. If candidates know they are in good hands, they're more likely to stay on board for longer. Using data and analytics, businesses can research what tactics are most successful and continue to improve them over time.
Utilizing data can help companies better understand the various men and women who apply for jobs within their company. Since poor hiring decisions can cost organizations in many ways, using data to understand position competencies, satisfaction and people's previous employment can help businesses lose precious time, energy and money.