Hiring
I find the #hiring process to be once of the more difficult tasks on my plate. Figuring out if someone is a good fit can be challenging. When I look at adding to our team it is way more than whether or not someone has the aptitude to do the work. I understand in most corporate and business environments it really comes down to a transactional relationship. I see the posts about how work isn't family, doesn't define you and you should look out for number one, not your employer. I understand where that sentiment comes from. I really do. But in social enterprise it's different. Our work is more than just tasks to be accomplished and daily outputs. Understanding the big picture and the 'why' is critical here. I'm looking for someone with passion about our mission. We don't see our work as linear tasks to be checked off a list but rather a calling to be fulfilled. Not everyone will be a fit for us and honestly we aren't a fit for everyone. I think of the hiring process as one of matchmaking. So prospective employees, consider this:
(1) Be honest in an interview about your goals, dreams, ambitions, passions and motivations. What drives you? What excites you? What work calls your name and ignites your fire? If this position isn't the right fit for you I promise your authenticity will cause me to want to find the right fit for your next position. I have an extensive network and I will put it to work for people of integrity and passion.
(2) Know your limitations and your strengths and be frank about those in your interview. No one knows everything and most things can be learned so don't be shy about areas where you may need some sharpening. On the other hand, let me know where you think you soar above most others. Knowing your strengths helps me picture where you fit in the team -- where you bring added value to what we already have or strengthen our team weaknesses.
(3) Check out the core values and see if it's a fit. Core values are non-negotiables. Values drive who the organization is and how they do business. If the values don't align, move on to other job opportunities.
(4) Do your homework about who we are and what we do and come with your questions. If you are looking to invest time here you need to make sure this is the best position for where you want to go in your career and down your professional path. Time is our most valuable commodity so invest your time in work that you are passionate about.
At the end of the day a new hire needs to be a good fit for the job seeker and employer. So during this hiring season at #CDP, let's strive to do this job matchmaking with excellence. I promise to do my part.
-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP
#hiring #jobs #socialenterprise #communitydevelopmentprofessionals
#corevalues #passion #missionmindedwork #mission #vision
