Here’s information on all the steps in the hiring process, including applying for jobs, interviewing, employment testing, background checks, and job offers, along with tips and advice for each.
Job Applications
The first step in the hiring process is, of course, to apply for jobs and to get your application into contention for the jobs you are interested in. Depending on the organization and the job, you may apply online, email a resume and cover letter, or apply in-person. Here’s a step-by-step guide for applying for a job, including how to apply for a job online, how to fill out a job application, how to write job application letters, and tips and advice for applying for jobs.
Applicant Tracking Systems
Once your application is submitted, many employers will use applicant tracking systems to process job applications and manage the hiring process. Applicant tracking systems provide an automated way for companies to manage the entire recruiting process, from receiving applications to hiring employees. These computer systems also screen applications to help employers determine which applicants they will interview for a job.
Applicant Talent Assessments
Some companies test applicants for employment to determine if the candidate is a good match for the jobs they are hiring for. Companies that conduct pre-employment tests (talent assessments) are seeking applicants that match their hiring criteria.
Interview Process
Many companies have an involved interview process starting with screening interviews, which are typically done via telephone and sometimes done by a recruiter or HR representative. If the screening call goes well, it will usually be followed by in-person interviews, which may go on tosecond, and even third rounds. Some one-on-one interviews may be conducted over a video call, depending on the position and type of company you’re applying to.
Interview Follow Up
Even though it may seem like a lot of work, especially when you have gone to multiple interviews, it’s important to follow up after each step in the interview process. In fact, the most important thing you can do is to follow up and reiterate your interest in the position and to thank the interviewer for taking the time to meet with you. Whether it’s an email or a phone call, reiterating your interest in the position and the company is always a good idea.
Applicant Drug Testing
There are several types of drugs tests that candidates for employment may be asked to take. The types of drug tests which show the presence of drugs or alcohol include a urine drug screen, hair drug or alcohol testing, saliva drug screen, and sweat drug screen. Tests typically screen for amphetamines, cocaine, opiates and phencyclidine.
Background Checks
You may receive a job offer contingent on a background check and/or a credit check. Or, a background check may be conducted prior to a company offering a job. What the company learns during the background check could result in you not getting a job offer or in the job offer being withdrawn.
Credit Checks
Companies are running credit checks on job applicants more often and then using that credit information as part of the process when making hiring decisions. An employment credit report includes identifying information, including name, address, previous addresses, and social security number. A credit check also shows the debt you have incurred in your payment history, including late payments. Do keep in mind that some states and local municipalities have regulated the use of credit reports and placed restrictions on how the information can be utilized by employers.
Reference Checks
At some point during your job search, a potential employer will request references. Typically, it will be when the company is seriously interested in you as a potential hire. It’s important to be prepared to provide a list of employment references who can attest to the skills and qualifications that you have for the job you are applying for.
Job Offers
When you have made it through the challenging hiring process, the final step will be a job offer. Before you accept, it’s important to evaluate the compensation and benefits package, consider whether you want to make a counteroffer or negotiate salary, and then accept (or reject) the job offer.
Hiring Paperwork
The final step in the hiring process is completing the paperwork you will need to come on board as an employee of the company. The forms you will need to complete include eligibility to work forms, tax withholding forms, and company-specific paperwork.
