5 Tips for Hiring Remote Workers
If the year 2020 taught us anything (apart from the fact that hygiene is extremely important), it was that waking up and going to an office is no longer required. The online world took over as people began to realize that they can do their job remotely, and companies realized that they can even start hiring remote workers … remotely. Whilst this is a great time-saving technique, it also comes with a few disadvantages. For example, how do you determine whether a candidate will be a good enough fit for a position? How do you know if they’re genuinely excited about the opportunity to work for the company? Do they have the right skills for the job at hand?
We know that remote workers, as well as the technique of hiring remotely, has been around for a number of years now. However, it’s on the rise, and in huge numbers. For this reason, we’re going to help you with expert tips to assess your next remote candidate, so you can make good hiring decisions, and find an employee that will help your company to thrive.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Hiring Tip 1 – Identify Your Ideal Candidate
First things first, you need to know exactly what you’re looking for in a remote worker. Are you looking for somebody to take the lead on important projects? Do you need someone to make comfortable decisions and take action? Start with asking the right questions, and get the right answers to help you guide your search.
Hiring Tip 2 – Use Technology to Interview
Don’t just rely on emails and phone calls. Technology is here for a reason, and you should definitely utilize every aspect of it available. Set up face-to-face interviews with top candidates through video conferencing and digital interviewing. This is great as it allows you to have that ‘’in-person’’ interaction, and it can also save you a lot of money and time when used correctly.
Hiring Tip 3 – Use Skills-Based Tests
Technology is truly wonderful. In addition to conducting virtual interviews, you can also use it to find the strongest fit for your team by arranging personality and skill tests for remote workers. If you were to offer this early on, you’re able to use these assessments to help you grow and narrow your search to focus only on the most qualified candidates.
Hiring Tip 4 – Ask The Right Questions
Asking the right questions to a potential candidate can make the world of difference when it comes to hiring remote workers. Instead of asking them yes or no questions, ask them to describe, get to know them. You want to aim for questions like ‘’what can you tell me about your work habits and traits?’’. When you ask this, it will generate a much more truthful and organic answer.
Hiring Tip 5 – Take Advantage Of Reference Checks
Don’t forget reference checks. Most companies do, and they miss out on finding out some valuable information about a remote worker . A good rule to follow would be to always request around 3-5 references, and be as specific as possible in your requirements. If the remote worker is entry-level and has little to no prior work experience, you can always ask for references from volunteer positions, teachers, or academic advisors.
The Takeaway
So, there you have it, 5 of the best hiring tips that will help you to never regret your hiring decision. The most important thing to remember when hiring remote workers is to not let the remote process intimidate you. When you arm yourself with knowledge and technology, you’ll be surprised by what you’re able to achieve.