Poarch Creek Indians shared insight into their specified hiring process.“ All Tribal Government candidates must undergo mandatory pre-employment drug and alcohol testing, and certain positions may require additional skills testing— such as computer proficiency or role-specific assessments— to ensure candidates are well-prepared to meet job expectations.”
At AUM, they believe in providing candidates with a realistic job preview. Meadows said,“ Simulated exercises, presentations and interactive problem-solving activities allow candidates to demonstrate their competency while engaging with current employees and students in a compelling way.”
Similarly, Damron said,“ For some positions, we also include job-related testing to evaluate technical abilities. Our goal is to ensure candidates not only have the right skills but also align with our values and culture.”
Finding the Right Fit Beyond the Resumé The best candidates don’ t just have the right skills— they embody the company’ s core values and culture. Hiring teams look for individuals who demonstrate strong communication skills, adaptability and a commitment to service. Genuine interest in community involvement and a positive attitude that reflects eagerness to grow are highly valued.
A recurring theme is the balance between technical expertise and interpersonal skills.“ When we talk about GPA and technical skills, I sometimes make the comment about us looking for a‘ blend of brilliance and personality,’” said Lisa McKissick, SPHR, Chief Human Resources Officer for Jackson Thornton.“ The interaction with clients and collaboration with team members are very important aspects in almost all of our positions. Someone stands out who demonstrates strong listening skills and communication skills— both verbal and written.”
Long-term commitment is another factor that elevates candidates. Organizations prefer professionals who see a career path within the company rather than hopping from job to job.
We strive to work with individuals to identify their strengths and focus their efforts on what they enjoy most. If we enjoy what we do, we are more likely to excel!-Lisa McKissick, Jackson Thornton
Empowering Employees to Grow and Thrive Great Places to Work don’ t just hire talent— they nurture it. Continuous learning and professional development are fundamental to thriving in dynamic industries. Candidates who demonstrate a strong desire to learn and grow resonate with hiring teams.
Patrick Kurdziel, Plant Manager for DAS North America, said,“ Experienced professionals stand out by demonstrating not only their technical expertise but also their ability to adapt, innovate and contribute to a team dynamic.”
Strong candidates showcase a track record of results, problem-solving skills and leadership capabilities, particularly in managing change.- Patrick Kurdziel, DAS North America
Internships and hands-on experiences are also powerful tools for growth, providing new employees a window into company culture and job expectations, while allowing teams to evaluate candidate potential.
Jackson Thornton prioritizes hiring from within and emphasizes that internship programs serve as valuable testing grounds, offering hands-on experience and mutual evaluation between candidates and teams.“ They are able to experience the handson work of an entry-level Associate. They also get to meet potential future team members and learn about our culture, and we get to see if they demonstrate the communication skills and client service skills in addition to the technical abilities,” said McKissick.
Building a Culture of Teamwork and Transparency Transparency and collaboration are vital for a positive workplace culture. Being upfront about job expectations, challenges and workplace realities helps build trust from the start. Candidates appreciate honest conversations that allow them to determine if the opportunity is the right fit for both sides.
McKissick said,“ We don’ t ever want someone to say after a few months,‘ This isn’ t what I thought it was going to be.’” The interview process is about both parties finding the right fit. This open approach fosters mutual respect and reduces turnover.
Creating a Great Place to Work is a multi-faceted effort grounded in intentional recruitment, comprehensive assessments, cultural alignment, ongoing development and transparent communication. The organizations that excel are those that recognize their people are their most important asset and invest in building environments where individuals can flourish both professionally and personally.
CentrAL Inc! 13