Hire for strengths rather than just trying to avoid weaknesses. Look for indications someone CAN do the job – not reasons to eliminate them
When hiring, it is important to focus on the candidate’s strengths rather than their weaknesses. This is because strengths are what will help the employee succeed in the role.
Weaknesses, on the other hand, can be addressed through training and development.
When looking for indications that a candidate can do the job, it is important to ask questions that will help you assess their skills and abilities. For example, you might ask them to describe a time when they used a particular skill or ability in a previous job. You can also ask them to complete a skills assessment or project.
By focusing on strengths and fit, you can increase your chances of hiring the right person for the job. This will help you create a team of high-performing employees who are passionate about their work.
Tips for Finding A Candidate’s Strengths
Here are some additional tips for hiring for strengths:
- Identify the top-priority attributes required for the job. What are the most important strengths the employee will need in order to be successful? Don’t allow generic answers here… you have to be real and granular.
- Ask questions that will help you assess the candidate’s skills and abilities. For example, you might ask them to describe a time when they used a particular skill or ability in a previous job.
- Look for candidates who are a good fit for the company culture. People who share the company’s values and who are excited about the company’s mission often self-select on having many of the attributes and strengths you are looking for!
- Remember that strong strengths often go with weak weaknesses – for example, someone who loves to be creative and excels in that area as a high strength, will usually not be a great rule-follower or perhaps not be the most organized in their workflow. That is OK. Unless it’s a serious flaw, it can be managed. Don’t be afraid to hire someone who is a little bit different if their strengths line up with the highest priorities you have. Sometimes, the best employees are the ones who think outside the box.
