Hiring the right staff extends beyond evaluating technical skills. Soft skills—such as teamwork, adaptability, and communication—are often more challenging to assess but are crucial for long-term success. Reference checks remain one of the most effective methods to gain insights into these attributes. By reaching out to former supervisors or colleagues, employers can understand how candidates apply their soft skills in real-world situations.
Assessing Teamwork and Collaboration Through Reference Feedback
Teamwork is a core skill in nearly every industry. The 2024 Talent Trends Report by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), explains that over three-quarters of organizations have faced recruitment difficulties for full-time staffing positions in the past year. Therefore highlighting the importance of evaluating teamwork during hiring. During reference checks, inquire about the candidate’s contributions to team projects. Did they collaborate effectively or struggle to integrate into group dynamics? Questions about handling disagreements can also provide a clearer picture of their approach to challenges in team settings.
For more on teamwork and collaboration, explore Ways to Drive Talent Potential Post-Onboarding and EncourageDevelopment.
Uncovering Leadership Potential in Unexpected Places
Leadership doesn’t always require a title. References often reveal whether candidates displayed initiative, mentored colleagues, or took charge during challenging situations. Leadership and navigation are important competencies for HR professionals, underscoring the value of leadership potential in various roles. These insights can help you evaluate their potential to grow into leadership roles within your organization, including temp employees.
Gauging Emotional Intelligence with References for Stronger Team Dynamics
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is important for fostering positive workplace relationships. Skill development is key in driving long-term company performance, retention, and adaptability, all of which are influenced by EQ. By asking references about a candidate’s ability to navigate conflicts, empathize with colleagues, or manage their emotions under stress, you can assess their impact on team morale and collaboration.
Recognizing Adaptability in Rapidly Changing Work Environments
The ability to adapt to change is more important than ever. Organizations prioritize support for their existing workforce ahead of bringing in new talent, emphasizing the need for adaptable employees. References can shed light on how candidates handled evolving priorities, new technologies, or company restructures. Specific examples from past roles can demonstrate whether the individual thrives in dynamic environments or struggles with flexibility.
Curious about hiring adaptable employees? Check out Creating a Resume That Resonates: Tips from Recruitment Insiders.
Checking Communication Styles to Ensure Workplace Harmony
Effective communication is crucial in any role. The corporations have had to adapt to new skill requirements driven by growth and technological changes, making effective communication essential. Reference checks can provide insights into a candidate’s ability to tailor their communication style to various audiences, whether colleagues, supervisors, or clients. Real-world examples of clear and responsive communication are invaluable in predicting success.
Making Your Next Hire a Success
Hiring decisions should focus on both technical qualifications and soft skills. NEXTAFF’s expert staffing services leverage thorough reference checks and our proven X-Factor process to ensure you find the right fit for your team. Contact us today to discover how we can help streamline your hiring process.
Ready to maximize your hiring staff’s potential? Contact NEXTAFF today! Come explore how our customized staffing solutions can drive your business forward. Learn More About Client Solutions Today!
