Is a person who has been out of work for six months or longer damaged goods? What about someone who is “overqualified” for your open position? Should you never hire someone with a criminal record?

Sometimes, candidates who have some sort of black mark on their job history aren’t as problematic as they may appear at first glance; many – if not most – could make excellent employees if given the chance.

Read below for Winston Resources’ take on so-called “problem” candidates.

• Someone with a criminal record. A candidate with a criminal record may not be a good candidate, but it all depends on what the individual was found guilty of and what type of job he or she is seeking. Did the candidate steal from a previous employer? If the position is one that will have access to a company’s books, or involve sales, or otherwise come into contact with a company’s funds, it may be best to pass this candidate over. But if the candidate is truly repentant, if the candidate communicates this regret well and sincerely, if he or she has the skills you need, perhaps he or she deserves a chance.
• Someone without experience in your company’s business sector. Many people have skills that are easily interchangeable. Many people have terrific soft skills such as good communication, flexibility, willingness to learn and try new things, etc. that could make them terrific employees. In fact, we’re finding that many of our own clients are hiring for attitude and training for skills. After all, skills can be taught; turning a curmudgeon into a good sport is another matter entirely.
• Someone who’s been out of work for six months or longer. Many hiring managers may unconsciously decide that someone who has been out of work for half a year or longer must be a problematic individual in some way, otherwise someone else would have hired the person by now. Either the person hasn’t looked for work hard enough (he’s lazy), doesn’t have the skills needed (hasn’t kept her skills up), wants too much money, etc. Are you letting this bias (unconsciously) into your hiring efforts? If you need good people, don’t overlook the long-term unemployed just because they’re among the long-term unemployed: many talented and hard-working people are in this pool. Dive into it
• Someone who is “over qualified.” What does “over qualified’ mean to you, really? That the person will expect too much in salary? That she’ll become bored quickly and bolt at the first opportunity? That he’ll balk at having to be managed by someone younger/less experienced? Check for your own biases before turning down someone with a lot of experience – you could miss out on a true jewel.

When looking for great candidates in New York City, call upon the recruiters at Winston Resources. Contact us today.