Match: A Systematic, Sane Process for Hiring the Right Person Every Time

Part IIB. MATCH: The Process: Phase II—Implementing the Recruiting Plan

Famous boxer Mike Tyson used to say, "Every boxer has a plan—until they get hit." Though you needn't fear being knocked unconscious by the hiring process, you do need to recognize that much of what happens as you implement the recruiting plan threatens to knock you off course. For one, the pace of action can put pressure on you to cut corners as you conduct phone screens and then face-to-face interviews. You will also be engaging in quality control by conducting reference checks and completing background checks. Keeping the hiring team coordinated and following a consistent process is a continuing challenge. And the candidates themselves—in their eagerness to highlight their best qualities—will test your ability to stay focused on finding out all the information you need to know for your decision. This phase is the most demanding, so make absolutely sure that you're sticking to the plan.