Companies are looking for good job candidates …
… but surveys show they’re having trouble finding them.
The solution for some companies is often right in-house.
You may have one or more staffers in various departments who are more than capable of taking on additional responsibilities. Some may even be “born leaders” who can bring fresh ideas to the table and improve how projects are handled at your company.
(And if you’re always promoting from within, there’s less pressure to find experienced candidates. HR can focus more on entry-level candidates to fill those spots.)
How do you identify staffers who are ready to take on more responsibilities? Here are four indicators of staffers who can do more:
1. ‘I already finished that’
Watch for staffers who have more free time on their hands that others.
If they finish regular duties quickly enough that downtime is noticeable, it might be time to find new responsibilities for them.
Also take note of how quickly they finish short-term jobs. Folks who complete tasks quickly have a good understanding of how your organization works, and have effective ways to get things done faster.
2. ‘I can do that’
Staffers who show initiative by volunteering for tasks or offering creative suggestions are prime candidates for a bigger role.
These qualities show that the staffer not only understands his job and is good at it, but wants to do more for the company.
A little ambition goes a long way.
3. ‘I’ll take charge of that’
It’s obvious that leaders are going to rise to the top at any company.
But watch out for staffers who naturally take the lead on any kind of activity – from a group project to ordering pizza for lunch.
Natural leaders can’t help but lead. Let them use that talent.
If they’ve got the respect of managers and their peers, chances are they’ll get the job done right.
4. ‘Let me help you with that’
Some staffers may be good at their job, but not so eager to spearhead a project.
Watch for staffers who are always helping out co-workers.
Staffers who have the time and desire to help out can handle — and deserve — more authority.
