EXPERT OPINION

Reference Checking: Can You Afford to Skip this Step?

Would you hire an applicant without conducting an interview? While almost no one would say "yes" to this question, many people probably have hired applicants without conducting a reference check. Like any other selection tool, the reference check is not fool-proof. But, as I will discuss below, a reference check is generally worth the time...

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THOUGHTS ON LEADERSHIP

Performance Appraisal: The Courageous Manager

No matter whom you ask in whatever industry at whatever level in the organization, almost no one is fond of their company's current appraisal system. Why is that?

Have most companies managed to construct ineffectual performance appraisal systems? In part...

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TODAY'S NEW WORK PLACE

The Virtues (and Challenges) of Being Virtual

Part Two: Trust — The Intangible Glue of Virtual Teams

Trust is a critical component for sustaining the viability of virtual work. It is the unseen and untouchable force that can keep intact a team of virtual members. Parties in a trusting relationship share a willingness to be vulnerable and encompass a degree of risk. The implication is when trust exists among team members they will behave in each other's best interests. However, one of the most important elements...

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A SPOTLIGHT

An Effective Predictor of Employee Performance: "Work Styles"

Every hiring manager hopes to accurately predict the future performance of a job candidate, a difficult project at best. Years of research have yielded a number of successful methods. Personality testing appears to be one of the most effective predictors. One trait in particular stands out. Conscientiousness has been shown to be the most...

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LEARN MORE

The ABCs of Internet Recruiting

Given the ubiquity of the Internet, it is hardly surprising that recruitment is increasingly conducted over the Web. Indeed, a growing number of companies no longer accept paper applications; applicants are required to apply online for any job in the organization. Internet recruitment, however, is a very broad term, encompassing a number of...

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