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How Employers Hire

Understanding how an employer hires can help you plan a successful search.

Each employer has his or her own hiring process. But here are four common steps. It is important for every job seeker to do well at each step.

Typical Hiring Steps

  1. The employer looks for the right people for their job opening.
    • Many start by looking at their own employees. They may ask for referrals from employees and others they know. This is called networking.
    • Employers might advertise the job. They may advertise on websites or online job boards.
    • Employers may work with a recruiter or agency. They may go to job fairs.
    • Employers also ask applicants to send resumes and cover letters to the company. They may ask them to fill out an application.
  2. The employer screens the applicants.
    Often there are many people who apply for one job. The employer takes out the ones who aren't a good match. People may not have the right skills or experience. Or they don't do a good job describing themselves. Then, the employer may call a candidate on the phone to ask them questions. Or they have people come in for an interview.
  3. The employer sets up interviews with people who seem to fit their needs.
    At the interview, the employer asks each applicant about their skills and background. They are also looking to see if people will fit with their company. They look for things like a "can do" attitude. They look for people who can get along with others. They also want people who like to learn and work hard. The job seeker is also interviewing the employer. The job seeker wants to make sure that this job is a good fit.
  4. The employer makes an offer to a selected applicant.
    The employer chooses the person they want to hire. Then it is time to discuss the job and its benefits. They discuss the salary, benefits, schedule, and other things. This is called negotiation. This agreement has to benefit both parties. A job seeker can walk away from an offer if it isn't good for him or her.

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