Most managers understand their department or business is only as good as their administrative support. But hiring for admins in what is often a crowded candidate pool can seem daunting.
So, how do you know when you’re found the right administrative professional for your open position? Before your next job opening or hiring decision, consider these ways to look for the top admin to provide the right support for your team.
They Start Strong
The phrase “putting your best foot forward” describes how we want to see administrative candidates starting off their application process. But this starts long before they step foot in your office. You want to see someone who sends in a strong application, a good cover letter, and who has excellent follow-up skills.
They Showcase Results
Resumes have changed a lot over the years. There was a time when it was just a list of duties, but that is no longer the case. However, some people still haven’t caught up to the newest strategies. You want to look for resumes that include results-oriented language.
They Communicate Well
Communications skills should be across the board. This includes their initial email, cover letter, how they comport themselves on the phone, and their body language in the interview. Communication is a major aspect of any administrative support role, so they should be qualified for it at all levels.
They Ask Questions
You always want to hire the person who is interested in learning more. They should be asking smart questions in the interview. If that’s the case, they will also be asking smart questions as they start the job which will help them work smarter on the job.
Their Appearance Matters
You also want to pay attention to how they present themselves in their dress. An administrative support professional will have to interact with people of all levels, so they need to be able to present themselves within the context of your normal dress code.
They Have Good References
Lastly, make sure you follow up with their references. These recommendations will be an important aspect of your vetting process. So many companies skip this step, but they could uncover hidden problems with candidates who are good at masking them.
Looking for top administrative talent? The talent experts at Harvard Resource Solutions is here to help! Click to contact us or to learn more today.
