Well, John had a great response..but not the part about who works "for you"....more like who works "with you". I too give out a written culinary test to see how rounded the applicant is. It sure helps when you use French terms like mirepoix or chinois.
Attitude is so important too. We often get that first impression and I often stick to that so called rule. How did you feel around this applicant? Where has he worked before? Is he over or under qualified for the position? Can he/she multi-task?
Definitely call previous employers. They can't say too much nowadays, but they can say if he/she is available for rehire. If the applicant was good, the previous employer will give great kudos towards him/her.
If the applicant is green, it might be a good thing. Old habits are hard to break. A green employee can be taught just what you want and also what you don't want. Try and make sure that the person fits the job description. This goes back to the under/over qualified notion. You don't want the person to be bored, yet you don't want them to get frustrated.
It's a difficult task acquiring a new employee to fit your position exactly. Great Luck!
John Kowalski  |