Recruitment needs

Finding the right person can be expensive both in tems of direct costs, such as agency fees or advertising, and in management time. It is therefore important that you know exactly what job you are trying to fill before you start the recruitment process. Build up a job description and from that specify the key attributes and experiences you are looking for. Match the CVs you receive against your specification and only see those who meet your essential requirements.

At the interview make sure the applicant fully understands the job you want them to do, highlight any requirements such as dress code or travel away from home, and check salary expectations early in the process to avoid spending time interviewing a candidate who wants more than you are prepared to pay.

Consider if the prospective employee is the kind of person to share the values of your organisation and whether they will be able to make the transition into the structure and hierarchy of your business.

Remember that the impact of recruiting inappropriate staff can be even more costly than the recruitment process itself!

Grant Thornton's Personnel Management Service offers advice on all issues affecting staff from recruitment through to dismissal. We can also advise you on developing cordial and effective relationships with trade unions.