You hired me at hello!

In this episode, Deb discusses the importance of effectively identifying the positions needed to fill as a business grows. She emphasises the need for a thorough analysis of the current workforce, including strengths, weaknesses, and skill gaps. Deb also highlights the importance of consulting with team members and aligning their strengths with their responsibilities. Additionally, she advises considering business goals and strategies to determine the type of positions required. Deb emphasises the significance of prioritising hiring needs based on their impact on core business operations. She also suggests exploring the skills and expertise of current team members to potentially reduce the need for external hires.Key Takeaways:Conduct a thorough analysis of the current workforce to identify strengths, weaknesses, and skill gaps.Consult with team members to align their strengths with their responsibilities and improve productivity.Consider business goals and strategies to determine the type of positions needed for growth.Prioritize hiring needs based on their impact on core business operations.Explore the skills and expertise of current team members to potentially reduce the need for external hires.You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Ever feel like hiring is a drain on your precious time and resources? Wondering how you can run your business and still find the time to recruit top-tier talent? Buckle up as today's show, Hired Me At Hello, brings you a practical guide to help you juggle your business operations while recruiting efficiently. I'm your host, Deb Houston, here to empower you with invaluable strategies to revolutionize your hiring process.We're going to delve into the world of hiring, explaining why recruitment should be your priority and how to create a timeline for the process. We'll talk about harnessing technology to make hiring a breeze, and discuss the potential benefits of video interviewing software. Plus, we'll touch on seeking external support when needed and even how to keep the hiring process fun. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion that's sure to elevate your hiring game and help drive your business success.You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Ever thought that as a smaller company, you don't stand a chance in the talent acquisition game? If you've found yourself nodding, we're here to shake things up! Join your host, Deb Houston, to debunk the myth that size is everything when it comes to attracting top talent. In this episode, we'll show you how understanding your candidates' aspirations, values, and what truly motivates them can make your company their first choice, regardless of how big (or small) you are. We challenge you to shift your focus from the candidate's pain points to their deeper desires.This episode is brimming with expert advice, providing you actionable insights on how to revolutionize your hiring strategies. From crafting irresistible job listings to transforming your interviewing practices, we take a deep dive into the world of hiring, leaving no stone unturned. By the end, you will be well-versed in how to connect with your candidates on a level that has them saying, "You had me at hello". So, are you ready to compete with the big guns and make your job offers irresistibly align with your candidates' career goals and personal values? Tune in, and let's get started!You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Ever wondered about the evolution of reference checks in recruitment? Join us as we disentangle this multifaceted topic, offering a fresh perspective on how this age-old hiring cornerstone has transformed. This discussion is a must-listen for anyone looking to discern the relevance of reference checks in the digital era, and trust us, they’re still very much alive! We'll help you navigate the complexities of this procedure, going beyond mere validation of employment periods to understanding potential hires on a deeper level.In the episode, we dive headfirst into maximising the potential of reference checks for hiring success. The conversation unwraps strategies to decode a candidate's strengths, weaknesses, and behaviours, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding of your potential hire. We also share pro-tips on tailoring questions, identifying patterns in answers, and reading non-verbal cues, all essential for setting up your candidate for success. Listen in to discover how to make reference checks a strong ally in your recruitment toolkit.You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

What if I told you that you could attract top talent to your company, even if you're a small business with a limited budget? Join me, Deb Houston, former recruiter and current hiring strategist, as we navigate the often intimidating realm of employer branding. We delve into five, budget-friendly ways you can enhance your employer brand and compete with bigger companies in attracting and retaining the best talent. From harnessing the power of authentic storytelling to the potential of virtual events and webinars, we're about to revolutionise your hiring strategy. Hear the incredible insights from my experience and learn how to create an employer brand that speaks your values and vision. Discover how leveraging social media and employee referral programs can spread your reach and make potential candidates see your organisation as the ideal place to work. Let's demystify the hiring process and build a team that aligns with your business goals, without spending a fortune. Whether you're hiring your first employee or managing a team of 50+, this episode is your guide to winning the war for talent. Let's boost your employer brand, together!You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

What if you could avoid the costly pitfalls of hiring the wrong person for your team or company? Get set to uncover strategies that will change the way you perceive the hiring process, as I engage in a riveting conversation with the insightful Kristy Lee Billett, an accomplished HR Consultant and Leadership Coach. Together, we explore how hiring mistakes can have long-term impacts on businesses, especially smaller ones. We draw parallels between a recruitment process and a marketing campaign, and discuss how playing the numbers game can tilt the odds in your favour.As we venture further into the hiring labyrinth, Kristy and I highlight the importance of assigning roles that truly fit the blueprint of your business. We provide cautionary tales about expecting one person to excel in multiple, unrelated fields and explain why it’s more beneficial to hire two separate people for two separate roles. We also share insights on how asking pertinent interview questions can help you find the best candidate and save you valuable time.Drawing on our collective experiences, we delve into the ramifications of hiring the wrong person and how such a decision can lead to a toxic work environment. We stress the importance of aligning company culture with a candidate's values, and encourage businesses to be cognizant of their applicants' goals and aspirations. Finally, we take a hard look at the significance of timing in onboarding and the detrimental effects of unconscious bias in hiring decisions. Tune in to equip yourself with strategies to improve your hiring process and build a successful team.You can learn more about Kristy-Lee Billett HEREDon't miss out on The Recruitment Mastery Workshop for Scaling and Growing businesses - the 1 day event that will set you up for hiring success - 30th August in Sydney CBD - read more HEREYou can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Struggling to find the perfect balance between quality and quantity when hiring for your rapidly growing business? This week, we reveal how to avoid critical mistakes and achieve that delicate equilibrium during the bulk hiring process. We'll discuss the importance of a structured plan and why relying solely on referrals can be a recipe for disaster.Partnering with Phlox Consulting might just be the key to your hiring success. Discover how we design tailored recruitment strategies that align with your business goals, and learn the benefits of careful planning, robust assessments, and strategic execution. Let us guide you in building a talented workforce that will fuel your business growth, avoiding common hiring pitfalls, and making the best decisions with the help of expert insights. You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Ready to scale your business and hire the right staff? As your trusted hiring strategist with 17 years of experience, I'm here to help you navigate the world of recruitment and avoid costly hiring mistakes. In this episode, we explore how to align your recruitment strategy with your business growth goals. From conducting a thorough analysis of your business objectives to tailoring your recruitment process, listen in as I break down the steps to finding the perfect fit for your growing team.But the journey doesn't end there! As your business evolves, so must your recruitment strategy. Discover the importance of continuous evaluation and refinement to ensure you're always attracting top talent. Whether you're a solopreneur or leading a team of 50, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable tips to help you win the war for talent and take your business to new heights. Don't miss it!You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Want to discover the secret to attracting top talent for your organisation? Look no further! In this power-packed episode, we reveal how leveraging networking referrals can give you access to the best professionals in the industry. As a hiring strategist with 17 years of experience, I can't wait to share my insights on why referrals often result in higher quality candidates and how networking can connect you with professionals who may not even be actively job-hunting.Get ready to up your hiring game as we discuss building and nurturing your professional network, cultivating relationships with current employees, partners, and clients, and leveraging online platforms and social media to expand your reach. We'll also touch on the importance of creating a positive candidate experience, following up with your network, and staying connected to ensure you're always in the loop. Whether you're hiring your first employee or managing a team of 50+, this episode has got you covered with valuable insights to help you win the war for talent and stop repelling your dream employees.You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Struggling to decide where to advertise your job vacancies? You're not alone! In this episode, I help you navigate the overwhelming world of job platforms and guide you towards making an informed decision that perfectly fits your hiring needs. We'll discuss the pros and cons of traditional job boards, explore the appeal of social media platforms like LinkedIn, and even reveal the secret sauce of combining both approaches.Tune in as we dive deep into the importance of targeting your ideal employee without breaking the bank on advertising. I'll offer tips and strategies that will help you win the war for talent while avoiding costly hiring mistakes. You won't want to miss this enlightening conversation on how to find the perfect platform for your job vacancies. Let's get stuck in and change the hiring game for your business!You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Get ready to revolutionise your hiring process as we unlock the secrets to crafting the perfect interview questions for candidates. We'll guide you through understanding the candidate's past experiences and why it's crucial to evaluate their skills, values, organization fit, and motivations. Together, we'll explore the importance of a skilled interviewer and how avoiding vague questions can lead to more insightful answers.You goal with any interview is to be able confidently answer these questions: 1) Can they do the job? 2) Do you want them to do the job? 3) Do you think they want the job?Tune in to learn more!  You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Welcome back to the You Hired Me at Hello podcast with me, your host, Deb Houston! Today, I'm excited to share some valuable insights on various interviewing techniques that can help you confidently make successful hiring decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Listen in as I explore the advantages of using a structured interview, the way a behavioural interview assesses a candidate's problem-solving skills, decision-making abilities, and cultural fit, and the insight gained from a situational interview. With a mix of these techniques, you can make sure you're getting a full picture of a candidate's skill set and how they may fit into your organisation.But that's not all! In this episode, I also discuss the benefits of case study, panel, and technical interviews for assessing different aspects of a candidate's expertise. Whether you're hiring your first employee or managing a team of 50+, this comprehensive guide to interviewing techniques is sure to help you succeed in your hiring efforts. So, join me in this engaging discussion and let's make your next interview process a smashing success!You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Welcome back to You Hired Me at Hello, where I, Deb Houston, help scaling and growing businesses thrive by sharing hiring strategy and processes tips. In this episode, we discuss the importance of onboarding new hires and the crucial role first impressions play in this process. Did you know that an effective onboarding program can improve employee retention by 82%? Listen in as I share three best practices for creating memorable onboarding experiences, covering the pre-boarding stage, the first day and week, and ongoing onboarding.We dive into the pre-boarding stage, which begins the moment the job offer is accepted, and discuss the importance of clear communication and planning during this stage. I also share tips for the first day and week, such as creating a warm welcome, assigning a buddy to new employees, and setting up their workspace. Finally, we explore ongoing onboarding, including setting expectations, providing feedback, and celebrating milestones. Don't miss this episode full of valuable insights to help you win the war for talent and stop repelling your dream employees!You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Welcome back to the You Hired Me at Hello podcast with me, your host, Deb Houston! This week, I share my expertise on effectively communicating and engaging with applicants during the hiring process. I compare the interviewing process to dating, emphasising the importance of communication to avoid losing top talent to other opportunities. Listen in as I discuss key tips for setting clear expectations, utilising technology, and following up with candidates in a timely manner to ensure a positive experience and build your reputation as an employer.In this fun and informative episode, I offer valuable advice on how to maintain communication and engagement with applicants using various tools, such as video calls, audio messages, and even voice notes. I also share my thoughts on the importance of providing feedback and updates to candidates, even if it involves delivering difficult news. Don't miss out on these insights that can help you attract and retain top talent, drive business success, and create a stronger employer brand!You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Ever wondered how taking a career break or sabbatical could transform your life? Bex Thomas, a career break and sabbatical expert and coach, joins me to share her love of travel and the benefits of pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. We discuss how incorporating career break initiatives into your employee value proposition can create a positive impact on culture, staff retention, and your bottom line.Discover the perks of allowing employees to take career breaks without formally resigning, such as increased creativity, innovation, and improved talent management. Listen in as Bex shares her personal experience of taking a six-week holiday that transformed her performance, demeanor, and outlook, and learn the importance of having a policy for career breaks and sabbaticals.Lastly, let Bex guide you through her 6Ws framework to help you contemplate taking that leap, as she shares tips on exploring your "why," connecting with your future self, and practicing mindfulness during your sabbatical. We also discuss the significance of integration, setting intentions, and staying connected with Bex through LinkedIn and Instagram. Don't miss this opportunity to consider how a career break or sabbatical could change your life for the better.--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------(0:00:02) - Workplace Sabbaticals(0:14:36) - Benefits of Sabbaticals for Employers(0:21:29) - Supporting Career Breaks and Sabbaticals(0:27:25) - Maximizing the Benefits of a SabbaticalYou can connect with Bec Thomas here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccasianthomas/Website: https://feelgood-getaways.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feel_good_getaways/ You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Have you been trying to attract and retain top talent with hiring experiences that fall short? Are you stuck in a cycle of ineffective practices and not seeing the results you want? Learn how to enhance candidate experience and create positive hiring experiences that attract and retain top talent.In this episode, Deb from the You hired me at hello podcast discusses how you can;Elevate candidate experience using open and clear communication channels.Foster relationships with candidates through tailored interactions.Refine hiring procedures for increased efficiency and overall success.Nurture candidate growth using development-oriented feedback.Skillfully communicate hiring decisions with compassion and respectThe key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:02:04 - Clear Communication, 00:04:37 - Personalised Interactions, 00:07:12 - Streamlining Hiring Processes, 00:09:24 - Respectful Rejection, 00:11:38 - Candidate-Focused Approach, You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

After experiencing ghosting during the hiring process and hearing similar stories from others, I became determined to understand the impact of this damaging practice. Little did I know that this unexpected journey of exploration would uncover stories of how ghosting had hurt both candidates and employers alike. What I found out next left me shocked and sparked my passion to fight against this issue.In this episode, you will be able to:Grasp the repercussions of ghosting during hiring procedures.Identify ways that job applicants' experiences can be negatively affected.Recognize the potential damage to employer reputations and branding caused by ghosting.Uncover the means to prevent ghosting for an enhanced candidate experience.Foster strong and positive connections between candidates and employers.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:02:26 - Impact of Ghosting on Candidates, 00:05:36 - Impact of Ghosting on Employers, 00:08:57 - Why is Ghosting So Damaging to a Company's Reputation, 00:12:27 - Preventing Ghosting,You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

In this episode, the host explores the crucial aspect of determining the appropriate number of interviews for a hiring process and the importance of striking the right balance. Deb breaks down the process into three areas: the what, the how, and the who and discusses the importance of being specific in what you want to assess in a candidate and planning your interview questions with purpose. Deb also delves into the hiring process and its similarities to dating, emphasising the importance of multiple interviews and involving various stakeholders in the decision-making process. If you're looking to refine your interviewing and selection process, Deb offers the opportunity to connect for an introductory, no-obligation chat to explore potential support. Don't miss this insightful episode on balancing efficiency and thoroughness in hiring!Timestamps0:00:00Exploring the Optimal Number of Interviews for Hiring Success0:02:11Interview Process Mapping: The What, The How, and The Who0:04:31"The Importance of Asking Specific Questions in Interviews"0:08:56"Creating an Effective Recruitment Process: The What and How"0:11:18"The Who: Assessing the Appropriate Number of Interview Stages"0:15:16"Creating an Effective Interview and Selection Process"You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

Deb Houston, host of the You Hired Me at Hello podcast, discusses the ideal length of a hiring process and stresses the importance of finding a balance between being efficient and conducting a thorough assessment. Moving too fast or skipping interview stages can lead to making mistakes, while taking too long can result in losing top talent. A poll was conducted on LinkedIn to find out the ideal length of the hiring process from the perspective of recruiters, candidates, and hiring managers. The interesting thing about the results is that they depend on the individual's definition of when the hiring process begins, as the start of a hiring process is different for hiring managers and candidates. It is important to note that all of the options can be the right answer, depending on the angle from which it is seen. In this episode, Deb breaks down the poll results and then shares two seperate perspectives on how long the hiring process should be be; as the candidate and as the hiring manager. Timestamps0:01:26 - Analysis of LinkedIn Poll Results: How Long Should a Hiring Process Be?00:00:09 - Introduction - Exploring the Ideal Length of a Hiring Process0:01:26 - Analysis of LinkedIn Poll Results: How Long Should a Hiring Process Be?00:05:02 - Hiring Processes: A Company Perspective,00:10:52 - Hiring Processes: A Candidate Perspective,00:11:26 - SummaryYou can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/

With her own experience of burnout, Sally McGrath has been a passionate advocate for workplace well-being, inspiring companies to invest in staff well-being. But the unexpected twist in her story is the revelation that the investment yields a return of $2.30 for every dollar spent - a remarkable transformation in the workplace that drives positive change. What other solutions does Sally have in store to promote balance and thriving workplaces?"Normalization is not a good thing when it comes to burnout."Sally McGrath is an accomplished burnout and workplace well-being specialist dedicated to supporting businesses in creating mentally healthy environments. With years of experience in her niche, Sally offers valuable insights and strategies for identifying, treating, and ultimately preventing burnout among employees. As a passionate advocate for removing the stigma surrounding mental health, she works closely with leaders and individuals to provide tools and techniques that foster a culture of well-being. Drawing from the latest research and best practices, Sally's expertise offers a fresh perspective on the vital role well-being plays in boosting productivity and talent retentionConnect with Sally here:Email: sally@healththatheals.com.auWebsite: www.healththatheals.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallymcgrath/Timestamped summary of this episode:00:03:22 - What is Burnout?, Sally explains that burnout is a workplace phenomenon resulting from excessive stress that has not been successfully managed. She outlines the various signs and symptoms of burnout, ranging from behavioral changes to extreme fatigue, cognitive challenges, and cynicism.00:13:32 - Effects of Burnout on Workplace Culture and Retention, Sally explains that burnout can have a negative impact on workplace culture, leading to absenteeism, presenteeism, and quiet quitting. This can result in a psychological safety issue and toxic workplace environments, leading to the loss of top talent across generations.00:18:49 - Benefits of Investing in Workplace Wellbeing, Sally cites a study conducted by Price Waterhouse, PwC, which found that every $ invested in workplace wellbeing has the potential to create $2.30 by way of productivity. 00:23:33 - No Burnout in the Workplace, Sally's mission is to see no burnout in the workplace, which she believes will increase productivity and promote happier people. She can be contacted through her website, email, or LinkedIn for more information on her services.You can learn more about Deb and Phlox Consulting here: Get in touch HERE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahouston/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlox_consulting Website: https://www.phlox-consulting.com.au/