If you hire people just because they can do a job, they’ll work for your money. But if you hire people who believe what you believe, they’ll work for you with blood and sweat and tears.
People ask me: "What do you look for when you hire someone?"
In addition to the inevitable intangibles, here's what I look for:
1. Energy: Does the person have "a motor"? Or are they sluggish?
2. Attitude: Does the person have a positive, enthusiastic spirit? Is the person smiling?
3. Caring: In addition to being enthusiastic, do they actually care about what they do? Is there a passion there?
4. Teachable: Do they want to get better at their job every day? Do they work hard, but with intelligence?
5. Loyalty: Do they show commitment to projects? Will stay at it when things get rocky?
I realize these qualities overlap somewhat, but I think it's helpful to see them separated from each other, for the sake of evaluating yourself on each trait.
And here's the the kicker, the icing, the cherry on top:
If my plane was delayed, and if I was stuck in an airport with this person for 3 hours, would I enjoy the time with them?
I also tend to like people who have been working hard since a young age, and have some experience in the service industry, or customer service.
Because in the end, it all boils down to the prospect's ability to help other people. That's the type of person you want on your team.
