5 steps to Recruiting for Attitude, Training for Excellence

In today’s competitive business landscape, companies are discovering the immense value of hiring for attitude over hard skills and qualifications.

While technical abilities and expertise are essential, they can be taught and refined. However, a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and alignment with company culture are intrinsic traits that drive long-term success. Here’s why:

1. Employees with the right attitude enhance workplace harmony, boost team morale, and improve customer interactions.
2. By prioritising attitude, companies not only foster a more engaged and loyal workforce but also cultivate a distinctive brand identity that sets them apart from competitors, ultimately leading to sustained growth and success.

Hiring for attitude however involves an investment to cultivate a unique workplace culture that can’t be easily replicated by competitors and which is reinforced through a strong brand identity and values proposition.

Why Soft Skills Matter

Companies should place a greater emphasis on attitudinal qualities during their hiring process. While technical skills are still important, being personable, having a positive outlook, and being eager to learn, are all example attitudes that are challenging to teach.

The advantages of this hiring strategy are numerous. By aligning new hires with the company’s culture and values, these organisations create a cohesive and engaged workforce. Employees whose values match the company’s culture are typically happier, more committed, and less likely to leave.

Moreover, when employees embody the company brand it enhances the customer experience, especially in direct interactions with staff.

While personality tests and behavioural assessments are one option to identifying candidates with these attitudinal traits, they can be costly and time-consuming. Instead, why not try a different approach.

Five simple, cost-effective strategies to hire for attitude

1. Clearly Define Expectations

Make it easy for candidates to self-select by clearly stating the qualities you seek in new hires. For instance, if you’re looking for extroverts, publicise this requirement (giving explanations and examples) to attract the right applicants and discourage those who may not fit.

How we can help: talk to Rapid Personnel about how you create the ideal job descriptions.

2. Be Proactive

Don’t wait for the perfect candidate to come to you, seek them out. When you encounter someone who exemplifies the qualities you want in your team, invite them to apply.

How we can help: Rapid Personnel have a database of candidates who may have the right cultural fit.

3. Look Beyond the CV

Hiring for attitude means interpreting a candidate’s CV and background creatively. Look for signs of resilience, social engagement, and communication skills. Your interview questions can also reveal much about a candidate’s soft skills. For instance, ask for examples of exceptional customer service or memorable humorous moments to gauge personality traits.

How we can help: Rapid Personnel can help identify the qualities you are looking for and assist your interview questions to ensure the right fit.

4. Observe Natural Behaviour

To get a true sense of a candidate’s personality, observe how they behave when they don’t know they’re being watched. Notice their interactions with receptionists, other applicants, and employees in informal settings. These observations can provide insights into their genuine character, which might not come through in a formal interview.

How we can help: talk to Rapid Personnel about your interview techniques and how to read and accurately record a candidate’s interview performance.

5. Involve Current Employees

Towards the end of the hiring process, have finalists spend time with your current top performers. This not only gives candidates a realistic job preview but also allows your best employees to help identify those who fit the desired attitude and culture.

How we can help: talk to Rapid Personnel about your talent identification retention strategies.

By implementing these strategies, you can build a team that enhances your company culture and contributes to a unique and competitive workplace. Ready to transform your team and drive your business forward? Get in touch with us today to find the perfect fit for your needs!

Categories: Rapid Insights