At a time when “Help Wanted” signs seem to be on every corner, it might be tempting for employers to hire anyone and everyone who is willing to work. After all, beggars can’t be choosers, right? It is remarkable how the shortage of workers has visibly affected so many businesses in our state.
As one personal example, I learned to my dismay one Friday evening that my favorite family-owned pizzeria now closes at 6 p.m. every evening due to lack of staff. I was shocked that a pizzeria would close in the middle of the weekend dinner rush. I thought surely the restaurant’s problem would get straightened out in a week or two, but now after several months, I have come to accept that this is the new normal.
Each of you could share your own examples, undoubtedly with more significant impacts than deprivation of late-night pizza. However, the impact on consumers pales in comparison to the effect on businesses being faced with the challenge of literally and figuratively keeping their doors open.
In these circumstances, the best practices for hiring employees could very well be at odds with a company’s immediate operational needs. For example, it would understandably be difficult to turn down a candidate because of a questionable employment application if the employer needs to fill the position to continue operating and has no other qualified applicants in sight.
Businesses should use the employment application process wisely and take the time to thoroughly review applications....
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