As far as possible I encourage businesses to hire employees on the basis of their potential rather than their proven capacity and experience. Of course, some positions necessitate a qualified, competent and experienced operative at the outset. For example if you were employing an airline pilot you\u2019d need someone qualified and experienced in flying a plane. Similarly, if you\u2019re employing a chief financial officer again you\u2019d need someone qualified with considerable experience in administering the financial needs of an organisation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, not all jobs are like that. There are several positions where a person lacking the relevant experience or qualifications could be quite suitable for the role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But what do I mean by potential? Simply a person with the motivation, commitment and appropriate attitude to work in a team that would help her\/him to acquire the necessary skills to do the job. This includes a willingness to learn, a co-operative attitude and a humility of spirit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Advantages of Employing on Potential<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Less Expensive<\/strong> 2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Larger Recruitment Source<\/strong> 3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Potentially Enhanced Loyalty and Commitment<\/strong> 4.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Provides Development Opportunity for Team<\/strong> Finally \u2026<\/strong>
The most obvious advantage is the potential employee will be considerably cheaper than employing a qualified and experienced person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Usually the source of potential candidates will probably be larger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Inexperienced people employed and acquire new skills in a job they\u2019re are interested in are likely to be particularly appreciative of the opportunity and hence predisposed to be loyal employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When an inexperienced new employee is appointed both the manager and other team members have the opportunity to gain skills in on-boarding, coaching and training the new member. This in turn strengthens their own resumes thus making them more prepared for promotion or alternate employment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, perhaps the greatest benefit of all is an investment in social justice. Organisations that seek wherever possible to recruit inexperienced people make an investment in the social capital of their wider societies. By giving an untested person a chance they communicate to their communities and customers they are committed to improving the lives of less advantaged people and thus evidencing they are positive and desirable corporate citizens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n