Don’t Keep Your Candidate Waiting: The Only 3 Questions to Ask Before You Hire
Top talent can be hard to find – and engaging them can be even harder.
Regardless of the unemployment rate, A-class performers are almost always gainfully employed and not actively job-seeking. That means when you have the chance to engage one, speed is critical. Don’t drag your feet or risk losing them to someone else.
At Underwood Executive, we often see recruitment processes stall – even after a great first interview. Why? Too many decision-makers, shifting priorities, internal referrals, diary clashes. Meanwhile, your candidate is going back to their day job and starting to lose enthusiasm in your process.
The longer the delay, the more likely you are to lose them.
They might start a new project, receive recognition at work, or simply get frustrated waiting for your next step. The result? You move from front-runner to backup option.
To avoid this, ask yourself just 3 questions:
1. Can they do the job?
Do they have the skills, experience and competencies to succeed? Can they deliver what you need?
2. Will they love the job?
Are they genuinely motivated by the role, the team, and the purpose? Will it satisfy their professional drivers? Does it move their career forward?
3. Can you work with them?
Will they align with your culture? Can you see them working well with your team and leaders?
If the answer is yes to all three – make the offer. Quickly. Confidently. Generously.
Delight the candidate. Keep the energy high. Show them they’re valued.
If you wait too long, not only do you risk losing them – you may damage your brand and be forced to restart a costly and time-consuming recruitment process.
When you meet the right person – don’t wait.