Hiring is very scary.

Since we have been growing faster than we thought we would ever be, I have had no choice but to hire an assistant to help.  This assistant is in addition to my daughters helping out when they can.  Here I thought the economy was getting better and the jobs were easier to find.  I was overwhelmed by the response of qualified and over qualified people that inquired and some not so qualified.

I did however state on my advert that I would train, so a person who just needs a job would do just fine.  Here is where i was blown away.  I can only afford (until I raise my prices) to have someone part time, 20-25 hours per week.  Although I am paying more than minimum wage - I was still taken back by the amount of good quality hard working people that applied.  I've had carpenters inquire, college kids that don't know any thing about wood at all, the guys who took wood-shop in high-school (you have to start somewhere) and then your "I have to have a job so I'll take anything" type of person.  I have scheduled 2 more interviews today, although I think our decision has already been made.

I did not base on previous experience or on eagerness for a job.  (There were a few of those).  I have based my decision on gut instinct and the type of person they portray themselves to be.  I didn't even ask for references.  The position I am hiring for is not hard, in fact it's more repetitious. So regardless, you learn in the morning by the end of the day - you are a master at it - no matter your previous experience.  There was no use in even asking for someone to fit that bill.

Every employer wants that perfect employee and so they set their standards high.  Then they get disappointed when someone can't fit those standards.  Here I am  setting my standards where they need to be - someone that I can pay to do a job that takes up my time, so i can concentrate on other tasks.  Pretty simple.  What I was more surprised at, as no women inquired.  Not that she would have received any special attention,  but no women at all, none, zilch, nada.  How weird is that?  Maybe I am special.  I don't think I am, I know 3 other female carpenters that are fantastic at what they do.