MAY 2024CONSTRUCTIONBUSINESSREVIEW.COM8IN MYOPINION5 TIPS FOR THE SUCCESSFUL HIRING OF SAFETY PROFESSIONALSBy Reid C. Lenhart CSP, Senior Safety Director, Concrete StrategiesArguably the hiring of a safety professional is as important, if not more important, than the actual policies and procedures that an organization creates. Employing safety professionals breathes life into the regulations that are set in place by the company. A safety professional provides the entity with the education and working application and ultimately reinforces the directives found in the safety manual.1.) Identify the Need, Don't Just Fill the OpeningHiring managers need to take a reflective approach before reviewing a single resume and ask themselves, "What are we trying to accomplish as an organization by hiring a safety professional?" Not all organizations are built the same or have the same needs. It is important, to be honest with yourself as a hiring manager of where your organization is at on their safety journey. Safety professionals can continue to maintain and grow your company's current direction, or they can be agents of change for your organization and can blaze a new trail.2.) Recognize the Qualities of Your Ideal CandidateTake the time to make a short list of the criteria you believe the ideal candidate should possess to succeed in your organization. Most hiring managers start the screening process and set up interviews based on measurable benchmarks: years of experience; industries served in educational background, and certifications. Though this is a good starting point, the richer content that truly benefits the organization's members can be found between Reid C. Lenhart
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