As it gets more difficult to find qualified team members, it’s more important to focus company resources on this effort, says Andrew Ziehler, president of Ziehler Lawn & Tree Care in Centerville, Ohio. But he realized the company was spending too much time reviewing applications and interviewing candidates who didn’t meet company requirements.
So, about two years ago, the company added another step to the hiring process: A list of six yes-or-no prequalifying questions. The receptionist or whoever greets the prospective employees reviews these questions before even handing the person an official application.
The questions are:
- Do you have a valid driver’s license with fewer than four points?
- Have you ever been charged with a DUI or reckless operation of a vehicle?
- Have you ever been convicted of a felony?
- Are you available for work from 6:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. March-June and 6:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. July-December?
- Can you physically lift 50 pounds and operate machinery on a daily basis?
- Do you have reliable transportation to get to and from work?
“One (incorrect answer) disqualifies them,” Ziehler says. The results have been less time spent on people who ultimately won’t work out and more time available to recruit great employees.
PHOTO: ©istock.com/kyoshino
Updated 12/18/15 to clarify Ziehler’s quote.
