Top Workplaces panel discusses the value of unconventional hiring
That was one of the managerial takeaways Tuesday night during the 2016 Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces gala, an event honoring the highest-placing firms in the annual rankings of businesses with happy and contented employees.
The gala was attended by some 400 people at the
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?Go back in time: The 2015 Top Workplaces winners
This year's panel discussion, led by
There was strong agreement that the best hires sometimes come with backgrounds in completely different businesses.
"We don't look for people in our industry," he said.
What these hires had in common was intelligence and a strong personal initiative.
"You surround yourself with good people, give them an opportunity to excel, show them the path to excel," James said.
The interview process at
"When we set up our interviews, what we don't let them know is that when they walk into our building, the first person they're going to meet is me," James said. He will then spend 45 minutes to an hour in a casual, get-to-know-you chat with the job seeker before the traditional rounds of interviewing happen in the building.
Hiring is also a bit unconventional at the
"We definitely don't judge your resume," said owner and regional director Zach Hart. "Your resume counts as a glorified piece of paper. It's all about face-to-face communication."
What's more, the interview process will happen in "reverse order," Hart said. Before asking applicants for details about themselves, Hart's team will explain the details of their business and business model, as well as what is expected of employees. That way, there are no unpleasant surprises for a new employee four weeks later.
"We teach them the hardest part of our business up front," Hart said. "Sometimes there are irregular hours, sometimes there's weekend work, sometimes the fact that you're going to leave before your kids are up from bed and you'll get home sometimes once in awhile when they're already sleeping."
At
"We try to hire people who are worriers," said
This year's Detroit Free Press Top Workplaces top finishers
Large Category
1.
2.
3.
4.
5. Quicken Loans
Midsize Category
1. Shift Digital
2. Home Instead Senior Care
3.
4. Team Rehabilitation
5.
Small Category
1. RapidAdvance
2. Power Home Remodeling
3.
4.
5.
Leadership Award Winner
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