“A monkey could do this job.”   Over the years, I have heard hiring management and clients say these words aloud, usually in response to a great amount of frustration.  (Heck, Careerbuilder built a hilarious ad campaign given this universal statement!)  Sometimes these sediments can manifest in the recruiting process.  They think: why is it taking so long;  why can’t you find these people; and why can’t you get candidates to accept the role? 

Let’s face it – just because a job is considered “low level” doesn’t mean it’s easy to fill.  Flippant statements like these, while said in haste, may have a damaging long term impact, and it’s up to the recruiter to turn things around before it’s too late.

Regaining Control of the Recruiting Process

By the time these words are said, I bet there are a few a-ha’s related to the process and the job.   If the traditional sourcing pools have dried up, then it’s time to present creative ways to find the target market.   If the compensation structure is off, then engage hiring management and HR in addressing the comp scale.  If there’s a problem with the secondary screening, then create new interview tools and, if possible, join the interview team during this important process to obtain real-time candidate feedback.  Recruiters need to be masterful at troubleshooting and presenting clear alternatives with poise. 

Fostering Empathy and Respect

In response to a candidate not showing up for an interview, my hiring manager said- in disgust, “what kind of a person does that!”  In response I said, “the kind of a person that didn’t get an excused absence from her current job.  The kind of person that is reluctant to risk her $11 per hour job for the potential to only make $12.  Probably the kind of thoughtful, responsible person you would want.”  She agreed – and we rescheduled the candidate for a more suitable time – and she was a great hire. 

Studies have shown that people can tell if they being treated with respect instantaneously.  Respect fosters trust – trust fosters communication – communication fosters engagement – engagement drives profits.    Understanding people’s viewpoints and troubleshooting potential problems help keep the monkeys in the zoo.