One of the key takeaways from our Guide to Predicting Worker Success is that invisible, external factors often prevent companies from hiring the best workers. This can include the way a candidate’s resume is written, unconscious preferences that make managers favor workers who are most like them, or even the search for a good personality fit. None of those things help you select the right worker every time, but it can be instinctual to let them sway your choice.
In reality, focusing on data and concrete factors is what helps you make informed hiring decisions.
The Relationship Between Data and Hiring
We’re living in a “big data” world, and companies are feeling the pressure to be more analytical. According to SHRM, a whopping 83% of HR leaders agree that decisions should be made based on data. But even for organizations that have access to the information they need, few - only 26% - report effectively using technology and analytics.
While these statistics aren’t the best, it’s important to note that human resources leaders want more access to the data that improves decision-making. And even employers that don’t have technical analytics platforms can focus on quantitative factors.
What to Look for
If you’re running a hiring process without the help of AI or analytics, here are a few things to look for to evaluate a candidate’s potential:
- Related Experience and Skills: Search through candidates’ work histories for tasks, skills, or certifications that will help them succeed in the position you’re hiring for.
- Availability: Ask from the beginning whether or not the worker is typically available for the shifts you need and their distance from your location. It may seem simple, but too often, people overlook important factors like timing and commute.
- Feedback: What have previous employers said about their work? Past performance can be a great indicator of future success or point out red flags that you may have missed.
How Technology Can Help
It’s time for the relationship between HR and data to become a little closer. At Employbridge, our ability to analyze worker data is central to our staffing success. We developed an algorithm that evaluates crew members’ resumes, experience, reviews, and behavior in order to help employers fill their positions with the best possible workers.
In the end, the results are clear. Clients who use our algorithm-based tool reduce bad-fits by 38% and end up 8% happier with the workers they’ve hired. Essentially, our algorithm helps predict which workers will be most successful.
The Impact of Data-Driven Hiring
Each year, we are going to see more and more employers turning to AI and data-centric programs to make good hiring decisions. And as our own Employbridge platform analytics show, data-driven hiring practices create better results. If you’re ready to level up your talent acquisition strategy, start by redirecting your focus to more quantifiable measurements of worker skill and reliability - or let Employbridge help.