Recruiting for senior executive positions requires time and money, something that most companies don’t give freely. That’s why we’re here to help narrow the search, highlighting what you need to know before, during, and after the hiring process.
Hopefully, you’ve decided to work with an expert recruitment agency to make the process easier, but there’s still much to do to ensure the right candidate lands the job. Everyone knows what they’re looking for, but how do you find it in a sea of resumes?
Here’s what we’ve learned from our many years in pharmaceutical recruiting that we think will help you, too.
Re-strategize Your Hiring Process
Searching for the perfect candidate? They may not exist—yet. “When it’s challenging to find candidates who check off all the boxes, companies may need to re-evaluate their job requirements to hire the right talent,” said Paul McDonald, senior executive director for Robert Half. There is always the opportunity to train certain skill sets required, but innate soft skills that align with the corporation are harder to find. Consider not only current qualifications but also future potential. This will expand and diversify the candidate pool, helping you secure the best and brightest.
Speak Less, Listen More
Candidates come to interviews ready to field many questions, but we recommend flipping the narrative and letting them do most of the talking. While they’re focused on selling themselves, you’ll gain valuable insight into who they are and what they will contribute. And since less than 10% of communication comes from words alone, use this time to analyze their innate behavior and responses; you’ll be surprised at what you learn.
Keep Questions Fresh
We understand the hiring process can be daunting, especially if it’s taking longer than anticipated, but try to view each interview as a fresh start. No two candidates are alike; therefore, the same question set can become redundant and less helpful.
Compile a list of questions to keep on hand so you can select the best ones for each prospect. Here are some of our favorites you may want to add:
Show Empathy
Closing yourself off to a potential candidate is an outdated interview tactic that rarely works in today’s corporate climate. Because as much as you’re looking for the best fit, you also need that person to want to work for you. The less stressed the candidate is, the more accurate depiction you’ll get of who they are. By showing empathy toward their personal and professional background, you can better tailor your tone and demeanor to maximize the interview.
To find the best job fit, companies must invest time and resources in the process. The candidate you’re looking for is out there, it's just a matter of finding them. Working with a recruiter will streamline the process and present you with prospects you may not have discovered otherwise.
At The Pharma: Health Practice SCI, we’ve specialized in this domain since 2007, developing relationships with C-Level and top-tier professionals daily. We then match these “impact players” with some of the most promising opportunities in the industry. Feel free to contact us with any questions.
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