by Leland Sandler | Oct 7, 2015 | Executive Advisor, Hiring, Leland Sandler
When put simply, there are two ways to go about handling any given situation. You can choose to take action and have a say in the outcome or, you can choose to sit back and wait for the results to unfold themselves. In this way, you can either choose to be part of the cause (at cause) or part of the effect (at effect).
In order to make a prominent stand in the business world, one must always look to be at cause. Managers and business leaders must ask questions like, “What are we going to make happen today? What do we want to create? And how are we going to do it?” They must focus on what they are going to make happen rather than what may happen to them. This demonstrates great character and leadership that other employees will look up to and follow.
Being at cause is not only important for upper level managers and executives, it is also crucial for those in the early stages of establishing a career going on interviews. Consider a situation where two people are interviewing for a job. Both individuals have the necessary credentials and are well qualified for the role. One individual takes on the interview with the point of view that the result will reflect entirely on their own performance. Whether or not they get the job depends on how they choose to present and project themselves. This individual takes full responsibility for the interview’s outcome, feeling very confident and in control.
The second individual, however, approaches the interview much differently. In their mindset, they know they will do the best they can, but the decision is ultimately based on the interviewer’s thoughts and opinions of them as well as how well the other candidates performed. This individual does not believe they have control over their own interview, making them feel less confident and less likely to succeed.
In my experience as an executive advisor, leaders at cause have a much greater chance of building a long and successful career in a field of his or her choice. Individuals that are able to take control of any given situation make a great fit for leadership positions such as managers, senior executives, and even CEOs.
by Leland Sandler | Sep 4, 2015 | Executive Advisor, Hiring, Leland Sandler
The hiring process is no easy task. When hiring new employees, CEOs are faced with many challenging decisions that will have a major impact on the success and future of their company. It is important for a CEO to understand that hiring is both a science and an art. There are logical processes a CEO needs to go through in selecting a key hire including reviewing resumes, references, CVs, etc., but there is also an art to it. The art involves being as objective as possible throughout the entire process.
In my experience as an executive advisor, I have seen many clients fall into the same trap of looking for someone who is too much like themselves. They look for someone they are compatible with and can enjoy being around. While this may be a good quality, the most important question a CEO must consider is whether or not the person can take on the role and execute at a level that the company needs.
Choosing the wrong hire can have detrimental effects on a company, bringing down employee morale, decreasing productivity, damaging client relations, and more. This is why an executive advisor can be so helpful when it comes to the hiring process. An executive advisor offers a fresh perspective and outside point of view to help CEOs make well thought out, objective decisions on who to bring into their company.
Listed below are several qualities to look out for when looking for the best new hires for your company:
Energy:
One of the greatest qualities to look for in a new employee is energy. The individual should demonstrate that they have what it takes to give 100% every day. At the same time, their high energy levels will reflect positively on other employees and motivate them to do the same.
Passion:
A second essential quality for a good employee is passion. The individual should be passionate about what the company is all about. If the person is not genuinely excited about the product or their particular role in the company, there is a good chance they will not be willing to give everything they have towards completing company goals.
Meets Specific Job Requirements:
The most important and seemingly obvious quality that all good employees should possess is the ability to meet the specific requirements of their job title. Sometimes a CEO may overlook this and focus more on how they engage and interact with the individual. While this is a important consideration, one must think about what type of individual will be able to get things done for the company. A person may be likable, but if they cannot bring in results and tangible value, they are really only slowing the company down.
Cultural Fit
Identifying the qualities that will lead to quality interaction and fit in with the company’s culture and with other employees is the final piece. Uncovering the way a candidate will live up to the real operating principles of the company cannot be undervlued. This “fit” between candidate and principles is a determining factor of long term success for the candidate and the organization.
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