When hiring employees at a small business, it is important to hire the right people the first time around. Above all, you want people who will do their job well, show up for their shifts, keep the peace, and go the extra mile to make your new small business a success.
Written applications are the first step in narrowing down the list of applicants, before you conduct interviews. Some written forms are more effective than others at revealing employee qualities.
Instructions
1. First, check out generic application templates online. You can see the basic questions that small businesses ask of of potential hires. You will need name, SSN, and contact info at the very least. You will also need spaces for previous work experience, references, and availability. Make sure that when you design the employment application there is enough space to write these essentials.
2. Next, think about questions that can reveal positive traits. Ask why they want to work at your business, what special talents they have, how they interact with people. Let your applicants show off their good sides.
3. Ask hypothetical questions about commons situations that occur at your business. "What would you do if..." Keep in mind that prospective employees won't know your specific policies, but look for answers that are headed in the right direction.
4. Avoid asking cutesy questions that are set ups for lies. For example, you own a chocolatier shop and you ask job applicants, "What is your favorite book and favorite movie?" Every person who fills out your application is going to spend 20 minutes mulling over that question wondering: should I write Willy Wonka and Chocolat to show my devotion to chocolate, or should I write real answers to show that I'm an honest employee.
In the end, you will only give off the impression that you are not serious about your business and finding good employees. Save the fun questions for the interview.
5. Once you've made a rough draft of the job application, let some trusted friends and family members give you input. The employment application that you send out is a reflection of your small business and professionalism. Take care to check spelling and grammar, and be certain that the questions are fair and serious.
