Hiring managers, I appreciate all of you. I really do.
But working with great hiring managers? That’s the dream of every recruiter.
Whether you’re new to the game, or you’re a regular at partnering with the Talent team, here are five tips to becoming the hiring manager that ✨everyone✨ wants to work with.
1. You communicate
I know, I know. The bar is on the floor. 🙃
Unfortunately, you’d be surprised by how many recruiters get ghosted by their own hiring managers.
Dream HMs are clear about how they like to stay in touch, whether that’s mostly via async Slack/Teams updates, over regular calls, or even the occasional carrier pigeon.
Whatever works for you, just let your recruiter know and actually follow-through. We’re happy to meet you there (okay, maybe minus the pigeon).
2. You show up
You come to kickoffs prepared, start interviews on time, and even leave hiring debriefs after having shared your opinions, and made fast decisions (a recruiter can dream). 😮💨
Being present and engaged keeps the process moving, and moves you closer to landing your own dream hire.
3. You sell the role
Controversial for some. 😬
There are hiring managers who believe they should be sold to, others think it’s a two-way street.
The dream HM is the latter. Yes, you are assessing the right fit, but you’re also pitching the opportunity. Work closely with the wider hiring team to paint an honest, desirable picture of what the opportunity entails. Never assume a candidate is fully bought in, and understand that every step in the process is an opportunity to sell, not just screen.
4. You’re open to iteration
Maybe the initial requirements were too narrow. Maybe the market has shifted and it’s time to re-think those “must-haves”. The dream HM rolls with the punches and stays open to pivoting when needed.
When it comes to hiring, knowing when to be flexible is a skill all dream HMs master. 🫡
5. You’re not a lone wolf
A dream HM doesn’t do it all alone. Maybe you’ve had rough experiences with recruiters in the past, but the dream HM understands that recruiters and hiring managers are a powerful duo.
On the flip side: a dream HM also knows that hiring isn’t entirely on the recruiters. It’s a shared mission. Together, you can swap knowledge, support each other through every step, and yes, even cry on each other’s shoulders if a stellar candidate says no (and celebrate when they say yes!)
But the key here? You’ve got each other’s backs. 🤝
Ready to be a dream hiring manager?
We’re here to help you and your team level up your hiring manager skills to assess the absolute best.