Find Quality Job Applicants: Use This Simple Trick to Make Sure They Really Want the Job

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• June 3, 2014
• By Susan Shain
• 2 Comments

Ramit Sethi, the mastermind behind I Will Teach You To Be Rich, is hiring a copywriter — but that’s not what’s notable.

The interesting part is that applicants must complete a writing test to even be considered for the position. In Sethi’s words, “This test will cover your ability to compile existing IWT material into engaging and useful articles and write in the IWT ‘voice.’”

After reviewing similar articles on the site, applicants are asked to draft a post on “How to Network with VIPs.” They then must submit both an outline and a finished draft of around 850 words.

So… What does this mean for hiring managers?

The fact that this is the first step of the application makes it unique. Many hiring managers use writing tests or case studies to narrow down a handful of qualified applicants — but doing it from the get-go is an interesting approach.

The benefits are clear. Only people who really want the job would take the time to write an original 850-word piece on the off-chance they might be selected for an interview, right?

The downside: It’s also possible some qualified candidates wouldn’t apply because of the additional work involved, especially if you’re not a well-known brand like Sethi’s. But hiring managers could easily argue that if an applicant isn’t willing to go full-throttle to earn the position, they probably won’t be a go-getter on the job, either.

When you’re looking for the right candidate, a test like this could act as a free and easy way to separate those who care about your brand and message from those who don’t. You’ll know every application that lands in your inbox is serious — with hardly any extra work for you.

What do you think? Recruiters and hiring managers, have you tried this technique before? Do you think it would help you hire the right person?

Susan Shain is a travel blogger who loves helping people discover adventure through international travel or alternative careers.

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