CFL Draft Offers Lessons in Hiring

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How the Hiring Process Compares to the NFL DraftPeople who watch the CFL observe more than football games. Some study the effectiveness of the organization itself. The Canadian Football League operates like a well-oiled machine; the CFL Draft is a good example of this. In fact, many employers notice the unique “hiring” process, seek to understand its efficiency, and replicate successful formulas in their own business models.

Leading up to the CFL Draft, a lot of hype surrounds professional athletes with impressive records. But when it comes to game time, a first round draft pick doesn’t guarantee success. Sometimes, it results in big losses. All the while, it seems less experienced (and less expensive) players come from untapped talent pools and lead their teams to victory.

Employers that mimic the thoroughness of the CFL draft proceed cautiously when hiring lead positions and pay attention to untapped talent pools. Can this formula secure business wins too?

Similarities between the Hiring Process and CFL Draft

Before football season can begin, research and analysis is necessary. A variety of measurements are scrutinized when a football player is being considered for a team. Similarly, when an employer evaluates a prospective employee, it is ideal to know as much information about the person as possible. Quantitative measurements like education, prior employment history, professional achievements, and personal qualities need to be reviewed.

CFL Players are Expensive… So are Professionals

Every draft pick seems to be a “win” at first. But only time can tell. Sometimes the first round draft pick (who is likely paid a high salary) turns out to be a bust. This is true in the professional arena as well. A person who looks great on paper may ask for a high salary, but will the individual be able to lead the company to a winning season?

Sometimes Underdogs Save the Day

A lot of hype surrounds recruiting upper-level job candidates, but there is a lot of discussion about hiring from untapped talent pools too. The risk of hiring a “no-name” is high because turnover is expensive. Nevertheless, taking chances on unconventional entry-level employees may produce great rewards for companies down the road. For instance, an individual might become a long-term employee or offer the next million dollar idea.

In business and the CFL, expensive professionals are expected to perform. This is not always the case, but even so, every season produces a number of underdog stories. Can unexpected people from untapped talent pools produce great gains in business too?

Hiring employees is a lot like the CFL Draft. Proceed cautiously around the hype of big name players; keep an eye out for the little guys; And always work to win.

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