4 Quick Tips for Screening Resumes

As a leading Houston staffing agency, Murray Resources knows that when it comes to the hiring process, one of the most labor-intensive tasks is weeding through all the resumes you’ll be getting. You might get a few dozen – or a few hundred, depending on the job and where you’re located.

However many you do get, it’s important to keep a few key points in mind when you’re screening resumes so the process is both efficient and effective. Here’s a look:

Tip #1: Know what you’re looking for before you start.

Before you begin the resume screening process, know what kind of candidate you’re looking for to fill the position. Have a list ready of the four or five non-negotiable skills you require and use that as a tool to screen out candidates who don’t fit the bill. When you have a clear picture of who a strong contender is for the job, you’ll have a much easier time screening resumes.

Tip #2: Wait until you have all resumes before you begin the screening process.

It’s tempting to review each resume as it comes in, but you’re simply making the process more time-consuming. Instead, wait until the end date of your job posting and then start reviewing all the resumes you receive.

When you do it all at once, or at least break the task into a few chunks, the process is going to be far more efficient than if you screen resumes one at a time or in a piecemeal fashion.

Tip #3: Don’t look for the perfect candidate.

The resume screen is only the first part in what’s going to be a more extensive hiring process. And you’re not making a hiring decision on a person’s resume. You’re simply deciding whether or not to move that person on into the interview process.

If you’re really uncertain about a particular candidate, pick up the phone and conduct a quick screen. After speaking directly with them, you’ll have a clearer sense of whether you want to pursue them further.

Tip #4: Do look for strong candidates.

When you’re screening resumes, look for those candidates who present a neat and professional resume free from typos and errors. Also look for candidates that go beyond listing out all their daily tasks on their resume and demonstrate a track record of accomplishments. And finally, when screening resumes, try to identify an upward trend in career path. Advancement is a good sign of a solid candidate.

Taking the steps above is your first line of defense in avoiding a bad hire. However, if you simply don’t have the time to screen resumes, call Murray Resources. As a leading Houston staffing agency, organizations all over the city rely on our expertise to source, hire and retain top talent for permanent, temporary, part-time and contract opportunities.

Ready to get started? Contact us today.