In the process of hiring a new employee? It’s exciting when your business gets big enough that you need to think about hiring employees, but in the rush to get someone onboard, it can be all too easy to make a mistake and not hire the most optimal person for any given position.
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Sure, you’ll probably check that you have the right qualifications and experience to fulfil the role, but what about those extras? Those additional skills that are nice to have, and which will enhance your company even more than you thought? You want to find someone who offers the most bang for your buck, right?
That being the case, let’s take a look at some important extras you should look for when hiring a new employee.
11 Things to Look For When Hiring a New Employee
1. CPR Certification: Because Life’s a Beach Until Someone Needs Rescuing
First on our list is CPR certification because what is more important than health and safety in any business? It’s the kind of skill you never think about until the moment you need it, like a plunger or the ability to uncork wine without a corkscrew.
Having someone on the team who can step in during a health emergency is not just a bonus; it’s a superhero move. Plus, it’s a sign of a person who’s prepared, responsible, and ready to lend a hand – or, you know, save a life.
2. A Knack for Karaoke: The Team-Building Maestro
As a business owner, you should absolutely never underestimate the power of a team member who can rock the mic at karaoke, or who is really funny, or you know, who simply seems like the life and soul of the party because you know what?
You need people who bring people together and help your team to feel more connected, which is why looking for someone with the right personality is so important. It’s not about the karaoke really.
3. Exceptional Public Speakers: The Voice of the Team
A team member who can articulate ideas clearly and confidently in front of an audience is gold. Good public speakers can represent your company at events, lead meetings effectively, and inspire the team.
Their ability to communicate with poise can elevate your brand's presence and morale. “Need someone to charm the socks off investors? I’ve got just the person.”
4. Plant Whisperer: The Office Green Thumb
We all know that one person who can keep a plant alive against all odds. If you find a candidate who has a green thumb, grab them! Not only does this skill ensure your office plants will thrive (making for a happier, greener workspace), but it also indicates patience, a nurturing nature, and perhaps a bit of a magic touch.
“Karen from accounting brought in a cactus? Watch me turn it into a tropical paradise.” It might sound like kind of silly thing to look for, but trust us, these people are useful to have around.
5. Wizard-Level Excel Skills: The Spreadsheet Sorcerer
In the world of office skills, being a wizard at Excel is akin to possessing magical powers the kind of which you would usually only find in a Harry Potter book (okay, a less boring version of HP).
Pivot tables, macros, formulas that look like ancient runes – a candidate with these skills can save time, decipher data mysteries, and basically make your business life a whole lot easier. Plus, they can teach the rest of us mere mortals a thing or two.
6. Meme Mastery: The Culture Czar
In today’s digital age, fluency in memes is practically a language skill. A candidate who’s a meme master can add a dash of humor to the workplace, keep the team’s spirits up, and even add a creative twist to your social media presence. “Feeling down? Here’s a cat riding a Roomba. You’re welcome.”
7. A Penchant for Puns: The Wordplay Wizard
Puns: you either love them or groan at them, but you can’t deny they add flavor to the day. A candidate who’s quick with a pun shows wit, creativity, and a knack for thinking on their feet. They can make daily communications just a little more entertaining. “Missed the deadline? I guess you could say I’m running… a bit behind.”
8. Creative Problem Solvers: The Innovators
Those who can think outside the box and approach challenges with creative solutions are the innovators of the workplace. They bring fresh perspectives, can pivot quickly in response to obstacles, and drive innovation within your team. “Hit a dead end? Our creative guru will find a way through.”
9. DIY Dynamo: The Fixer
Having a DIY dynamo on the team can be a game-changer. Whether it’s changing a lightbulb, fixing a jammed printer, or crafting a makeshift bookshelf, a handy team member can save the day in more ways than one. It’s a skill that says, ‘I’m resourceful, practical, and I know how to handle a screwdriver without causing a power outage.’
10. The Mindfulness Guru: Zen and the Art of Office Maintenance
In the fast-paced world of deadlines and meetings, a mindfulness guru can be a beacon of calm. They're not just about meditation and yoga; they embody patience, empathy, and the ability to maintain composure under pressure.
Having someone who can guide the team in stress-reduction techniques and mindfulness practices is invaluable. “Feeling overwhelmed? Let’s take a minute to breathe and reset.”
11. The Digital Nomad: Connectivity Pros
In an age where remote work has become more common, look for the digital nomad who has mastered the art of staying connected and productive, no matter where they are.
Their adaptability, tech-savviness, and independence are crucial in today’s flexible work environment. “Internet issues? Give it here; I’ve had to hack into Wi-Fi in the middle of the Sahara!”
Look for Extra Skills When Hiring a New Employee
Obviously, you will have to really luck out to find a candidate who offers all of the above and has the relevant education and experience for the role your business is hiring for, but if you can find someone who boasts at least a handful of these skills, then you will definitely be getting more bang for your buck, and a much better employee for your company, for sure.
