Searching for that Perfect Fit for the Available Position? ~ 102

An excellent candidate for the technician position has applied for a job that you have posted. There are a million and one things that you need and want to know from this person before committing to offering him a career with your company. Whether he applied online, or from a referral, always, always interview as though you know nothing about this person. Whatever processes you have in place for interviewing, proceed with all of them, no matter how well you may think you know the applicant.

During an interview, there are the obvious things to watch for, such as timeliness, how well they prepared for the interview, hygiene, lack of cell phone calls and texts, etc. Remember, this is most likely their “best” that is before you.

There are online screening tools available for testing for dependability, decision making, work values, etc. This is a great advantage, being in our field, mistakes can be costly. This lowers the chance of hiring someone who may not follow directions well, or is consistently late.

Drug testing almost goes without saying. Most companies require it before hiring, and even have random drug testing throughout their employment term.

Check all references provided. Keep in mind that attitude, motivation, enthusiasm, work ethic, and desire to learn are as important as skills and education. This is the case with any position. If someone wants it enough, they will work hard to achieve it, and most likely enjoy a job more if there was work involved getting there. Ideally, they should be willing to keep the pace, stay up to date and anxious to learn more, as technology is improving and changing every day.

Beware of “I have always done it this way.” Does the employee seek new ways to learn and enjoy the challenge of being educated on the latest technology? Certifications for completed classes to learn new skills listed on a resume or discussed during an interview are good indications of an enthusiastic employee.

With these few easy steps, finding and keeping the right technician will be a great benefit for many productive years in your company.

Searching for the Perfect Fit for the Available Position ~ 101

When in the market to hire a new parts replacer, or technician, for your company, remember and realize the difference in the two. A parts replacer can replace a part on the equipment, but he does not really know why, only that it was not working. A technician knows that a part needs to be replaced and can explain why. He replaces a part, knows how it works, therefore can test to make sure it is indeed repaired.

Another consideration is whether to make the position hourly or flat rate. Be upfront when interviewing, the position is hourly. If all the equipment is repaired, and there is “nothing to do”, jobs will be assigned such as washing windows, sweeping, straightening the waiting room or tool racks, cleaning the garage, etc. A willing candidate will embrace the idea of staying busy and earning their income.

Do not hire with the promise of promotions, unless you are absolutely sure this will occur. It is likely that a technician is just that, a great technician. Different skills are needed to be a shop manager. If you see later down the road a technician has the qualities that are meant for management, approach him at that time, and not before. If a technician is successful, keeping him happy with pay raises, awards, recognition, a title change, and other incentives will be a win/win for you and for him. He will be happier than if you move him to another position he does not enjoy or are not as good at. Then, you have lost your great technician and manager as well.

A good goal is to keep people in jobs they enjoy, and let them know you appreciate them, whether by new uniforms or business cards. Making the right decision when interviewing and hiring new employees saves time and much money locating and training… again and again. Morale is the key once you have found that reliable, knowledgeable technician.