Hiring Great Fundraisers (or anyone else for that matter)

Human resource professionals and hiring managers often ask me if there are certain qualities to look for in prospective new hires that are likely to make them extraordinarily successful in their roles.  While there are no absolutes, over the years I have found that there are a few characteristics that if carefully screened for can yield excellent new-hire results.  Of course, it helps to have a rigorous recruitment process that develops a strong pool of talented candidates.  Resume reviews and initial phone screenings are great tools for determining foundational competence.  After that process, multiple face-to-face interviews of a small pool of candidates by a diverse hiring committee who are prepared to ask penetrating questions about character (not competence) will get at the heart of the matter. 

I recognize that this may be a completely heretical view.  So, go ahead and burn me at the stake.  But before you do, you may want to take a look at the character/personality qualities below which I regularly looked for when making new hires.  While I am indebted to Napoleon Hill (Think and Grow Rich) and W. Clement Stone (Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude) for the initial inspiration of this list, in most cases I have put my own spin on these.  I should point out that nearly all of these qualities can be learned or acquired over time with practice.  They are not innate.  If you are recruiting someone to your team, I strongly recommend you consider evaluating candidates along these dimensions in addition to any specialized knowledge that may be required.

Positive mental attitude

This attitude can often be described by such words as optimistic, courageous, generous, tolerant, tactful, kind, and having good common sense.

Going the extra mile

Live by the golden rule, and render more and better service than was expected.

Definiteness of purpose

A dominating idea, plan, or purpose emotionalized by a burning desire for its realization. The ability to set goals and make specific plans to achieve them.

Enthusiasm

Intense enjoyment of one’s work and profession.

Personal Initiative

Plan one’s own work and work one’s plan.  “I do it now” attitude.

Pleasing Personality

A professional appearance and demeanor. Can demonstrate the virtue of humility.

Learning from Defeat

The ability to learn from substantial personal and professional setbacks.

Controlled Attention (also perseverance and persistence)

Can stay focused for long periods of time.  Can stick with a projects for 12, 18, and 24 months while overcoming obstacles.

 

Teamwork

Works well with others.  Can seek advice and help from others to accomplish goals.



Time and Project Management

Manages multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.  Stays organized.  A time and place for everything.

Creative Vision

The ability to use imagination constructively.  Can “paint a picture” in the mind of another with words.

Accurate Thinking

Separates fact from fiction.  Can implement practical ideas or plans to achieve a particular goal.