Hiring and Firing: Understanding the Issues

Nicki D. McCrawDirector of Human Resources

Upper Campus, Bothell and Tacomanmccraw@u.washington.edu

206-543-2284

Pre-Employment

An illegal inquiry is a “per se” violation

Cannot make ANY inquiries about: Gender Religion Race Marital Status Disabilities

Permissible Testing

Drug testing (but not alcohol) Credit checks Medical examinations

Reference Checks Always do them and be prepared

to provide references List references who can talk about

your work experience Notify them; tell them about job and

why it’s a good fit for you You may be asked to sign a waiver

for additional information

Things to Keep in Mind

Watch what you put on the web Google yourself “Dear Sir” Spell check You get 30 seconds…..use them

wisely

Prepare for the Interview

Employers: Understand your needs Identify position purpose Identify duties and responsibilities Know what your ideal candidate

would look like

Prepare for the Interview

Job candidate: Research the organization Understand the position Know your strengths and how they

relate to the position Practice interviewing skills Show them why you will be valuable

Prepare for the Interview cont’d

Job candidate: Be on time Treat everyone nicely – including the

receptionist Bring copies of resume Prepare a list of questions to ask

Know Your Policies

Read your employment handbook Follow the procedures Be consistent If you have a union, know the CBA

Disciplinary Actions and Termination

Communicate expectations clearly Document good and bad

performance Be objective and consistent Maintain copies of emails Communicate consequences

clearly

Termination Issues

Think about impact on others Weigh costs to rehire and retrain Can it be fixed? When and how to terminate Remember negligent referral

issues in future