Understanding hiring checklists
A hiring manager checklist ensures managers complete all necessary steps when bringing someone new into their team. While HR handles administrative aspects, hiring managers own the process of defining the role, selecting the right candidate, and successfully integrating them.
Hiring manager tasks
- Define role requirements
- Interview candidates
- Make hiring decision
- Lead onboarding
HR support tasks
- Post job advertisements
- Screen applications
- Coordinate interviews
- Handle compliance paperwork
Pre-hire checklist
Tasks to complete before the recruitment process begins:
Before recruiting
Selection checklist
- Review shortlist: Assess candidates HR has screened
- Conduct interviews: Evaluate skills, fit, and potential
- Check references: Verify experience and performance
- Make decision: Select the best candidate
- Extend offer: Work with HR on offer details
Document your decisions
Keep notes on why candidates were selected or rejected. This protects against discrimination claims and helps if the hiring decision is questioned. Focus on job-related criteria and avoid personal opinions.
Onboarding checklist
Before first day
- Prepare workspace/equipment
- Request system access
- Notify team of new starter
- Assign onboarding buddy
First week and beyond
- Welcome on first day
- Make introductions
- Set initial goals
- Schedule regular check-ins
Common hiring manager mistakes
Unclear job requirements
Vague or unrealistic requirements attract wrong candidates and make selection difficult. Define clear, essential criteria before posting the job.
Rushing the process
Pressure to fill roles quickly leads to poor decisions. A bad hire costs more than leaving a role vacant for a few extra weeks. Take time to assess properly.
Hands-off onboarding
Leaving onboarding to HR or expecting new hires to figure things out. Hiring managers must be actively involved in welcoming and integrating their new team member.
Key takeaways
A hiring manager checklist ensures consistent, effective hiring by guiding managers through role definition, selection, and onboarding. The checklist keeps the process on track and helps avoid common mistakes that lead to poor hires.
RosterElf's employee management helps Australian businesses integrate new staff quickly with rostering, time tracking, and leave management tools.
