Hiring Wisdom: Applying a Zen Approach to Recruiting Quality Employees

Is there an idea or project on the list in the back of your mind that stays there because it feels like, once you start, there’s no end in sight?

Is it one of those “not urgent,” yet, important tasks that could make a real difference when it comes to reaching your goals or doing something you know would be soul-satisfying?

If so, consider adapting the Zen Buddhist practice of soji. Simply put, just give yourself a set amount of time (minutes or hours, perhaps) to devote to this important task mindfully with no intent of finishing.

Getting some peace of mind

With no deadline hanging over your head and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ll be able to turn your attention back to “urgent” things soon, it becomes much easier to start and, eventually, complete seemingly overwhelming projects.

If you’re looking to improve the quality of your team, a soji practice would apply perfectly to the often put off intention to start recruiting new, quality employees on a daily basis.

Why not set aside five or 10 minutes a day to ask existing employees if they know of anyone who would be a good fit or to ask someone who gives you exemplary service if they might be interested in joining your team?

This was originally published on Mel Kleiman’s Humetrics blog.