Free Hiring Manager Checklist Template

Hiring Manager Checklist


Prepared by: [Your Name]

Company: [Your Company Name]

Date: [Date]


This checklist is designed to help hiring managers follow a structured and thorough recruitment process to ensure the best candidate is selected.

I. Job Requirements and Preparation

Section

Action

Status

Review the Job Description

Ensure the job title, responsibilities, and qualifications are accurate and up-to-date.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Define Key Criteria

Identify the must-have skills, experience, and qualifications required for the role.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Set Hiring Timeline

Determine the expected timeline for the hiring process, including key deadlines.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Assemble Interview Panel

Choose the interview team and assign specific roles to each interviewer.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed


II. Candidate Screening

Section

Action

Status

Review Applications

Sort through resumes and cover letters, shortlisting candidates based on key criteria.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Pre-screening Call

Conduct initial phone or video interviews to assess candidates' interest and fit for the role.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Screening Criteria

Use a checklist of qualifications, skills, and experience to ensure consistency in evaluations.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed


III. Interview Process

Section

Action

Status

Prepare Interview Questions

Create a standardized list of behavioral, technical, and role-specific questions.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Schedule Interviews

Coordinate interview times with candidates and interview panel members.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Conduct Interviews

Ensure interviews are structured, fair, and aligned with the role requirements.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Take Notes

Document key points, strengths, and concerns during interviews.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed


IV. Candidate Assessment

Section

Action

Status

Evaluate Candidates

Review interview notes and rate candidates based on their answers, qualifications, and overall fit.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Check Cultural Fit

Assess if the candidate aligns with the company's values and team dynamics.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Skills Assessment

If applicable, assign and review any practical or technical tests related to the role.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed


V. Reference and Background Checks

Section

Action

Status

Contact References

Speak with provided references to validate the candidate's work history and performance.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Perform Background Checks

Run necessary background checks, including criminal, employment, and education verification.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed


VI. Final Decision and Offer

Section

Action

Status

Review Finalists

Discuss the top candidates with the interview panel and reach a consensus.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Extend Offer

Once the best candidate is selected, work with HR to extend a formal job offer.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Negotiate Terms

Be prepared to discuss and negotiate salary, benefits, and start date if necessary.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed


VII. Onboarding Preparation

Section

Action

Status

Prepare Onboarding Plan

Ensure the candidate has a smooth transition by organizing their onboarding and training.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed

Welcome the Candidate

Communicate acceptance, ensure workspace readiness, and provide company materials.

  • Pending

  • In Progress

  • Completed



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