Lisa Olsson supports managers in recruitment
– The advantages of using Lisa's support
Since she started at EECS a year ago, Lisa Olsson has supported the school's divisions during the doctoral recruitment process. We spoke to her about her role, how it has developed and why hiring managers should continue to use the service.
Lisa's position and service function has existed at KTH since April 2022. During that period, EECS has recruited at least 100 doctoral students.
Sometimes Lisa is present during the interviews, and sometimes she does them herself.
“Both options work well, but it's usually best when we divide the interviews. Both parties get more time with the candidate and then get together for a conversation. It usually gives the best outcome for everyone.”
Lisa continues:
“The advantages of getting recruitment support are several; for example, you get someone to evaluate thoughts and ideas with during the entire process.”
Fewer complications
Lisa usually collects feedback when she has finished helping in recruitment. It helps both her and the hiring manager.
Collaborating with Lisa often gives perceived higher control over the recruitment process. There have been fewer ambiguities and complications that can negatively affect the process in the early stages.
“The candidates have also given positive feedback. To them, it feels more personal to combine a technical and a competency-based interview.”
“But we will only see the long-term results further down the line. I look forward to following the doctoral students' path and supporting the hiring managers when needed.”
Many good collaborations have emerged over time, which Lisa thinks help develop her support function.
“There are many inspiring people in the operation, and I like to listen to their thoughts, ideas and suggestions. Together, we will have the opportunity to streamline the necessary parts of the process.”
The person behind the technical competence
Recurring positive feedback is that Lisa contributed to giving a broader picture of the candidate. It means assessing their technical skills, knowledge and experience as well as getting information about the applicant's competence and suitability for this type of challenge and position.
“Working with me means that someone only focuses on the person behind the technical competence and interviews the candidate from a more personal perspective. During these occasions, we usually get answers to questions that only sometimes get space during the technical interview.”
Frustration exists
Lisa has gained a great deal of insight into the lives of the faculty and doctoral students at the university.
“I have gained a greater understanding that there is sometimes a certain amount of friction between the University administration's (VS) processes and the core business's wishes.”
Not infrequently, there is some frustration. Then it is easy to overlook the help that exists.
“When there are definite opinions about processes, one might find it more challenging to keep an open mind towards new support. We must remember that we are working towards the same goal; to bring in the right people for our operation. Many of the positive collaborations that have emerged testify that it is possible to achieve effective ways of working together,” Lisa concludes.
Need support in doctoral recruitment?
Contact Lisa
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