A Lesson in Bad Recruiting & HR, or How Not to Hire a Football Coach

For college football fans, last week was a bit crazy on the college football coaching carousel!

The one that really caught my eye was Bret Bielema, the University of Wisconsin coach, leaving to go to the University of Arkansas in the SEC (Southeastern Conference.

First off, I hate the University of Wisconsin. Second off, I hate Bret Bielema. Being a Michigan State University fan/donor, the University of Wisconsin has been a rather large pain in our backside the past few years! So, it’s with respect (and hatred) that I bid the rather large jackass, Bret Bielema, adieu.

Job requirements for a major college coach

Here’s what is really great about this whole thing, though: the head football coach job at the University of Wisconsin (like most state colleges) is a state job – and with most “government” jobs, they have processes and procedures they need to follow when hiring. No. Matter. What.

Here’s the job posting from the University of Wisconsin career site! It’s awesomely bad HR!

Want the job? Here’s what UW is looking for in their next coach:

Bachelor’s degree required (I mean this isn’t Arkansas!)
Minimum of five (5) years of successful collegiate football coaching experience, preferred. (Way to shoot for the moon!)
Other qualifications include the ability to work cooperatively with diverse groups and administrators, faculty, staff and students. The successful applicant must be able develop and implement innovative approaches and solutions; work well independently and in teams; and be flexible in accepting new responsibilities. (Um, what!?)
Anticipated start date: December 24, 2012 (Merry F’ing Christmas — we need recruits, so start calling!)

Here’s why HR gets zero respect

I really would love to sit down with the President and Athletic Director of the University of Wisconsin and find out if they “truly” feel this is the job requirements for their Head Football Coach at UW! And, oh brother, this is a BIG and, is this current “recruiting” process meeting their needs! I can only assume I already know the answer.

Want to apply:

Unless another application procedure has been specified above, please send resume and cover letter referring to Position Vacancy Listing #75429 to:

Holly Weber

1440 Monroe St.

Kellner Hall

Madison, WI

I’m sure Holly is a solid Talent Acquisition Pro and will do a proper job screening you before you meet with the Athletic Director.

Is it just me, or do you feel they might end up using a head hunting firm on this hire?! To me, this is the exact reason HR/Recruiting get zero respect.

This job should not be posted on the career site next to the janitor opening. This hire will have millions of dollars of impact to the funding of this school, so stop treating it like it’s like every other hire – it’s not – and it makes you look like you have no idea what you’re doing.

This was originally published on Tim Sackett’s blog, The Tim Sackett Project.