Although it seems a simple task to review a resume from an applicant, it isn’t always as easy as you’d think. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could miss out on that perfect candidate.

With all the fancy software these days that help job applicants look great “on paper,” you could very well miss that ideal person – the one who can actually get the job done and be a true member of your team. The real promising ones don’t always stand out.

Perhaps this is grossly simplified, but just following these steps can melt away any confusion or overwhelm. Taking a few minutes to screen the applicants can save a lot of time in the long run.

First of all, you should check out the resume against the qualifications you have delineated as part of your job description. In fact, before you even begin, make a list of all the important skills and experience a person must have to hold the position effectively.

Using this list, go through each resume and compare the skills and experience they have listed against your list. If it’s clear they don’t qualify, put that resume aside in a discard pile. When they possibly qualify, put it in a pile marked “likely.” And if they look perfect, put those into a “hot” pile.

Now you have your priorities. Start with that “hot” pile and start lining up interviews. You will have a much better chance to find your perfect employee this way, and save a lot of time and money in the process.

As always, I am here to help if you need any assistance in this area.

Mya