Brad Giles interviews Dr. Brad Smart, the founder and CEO of TopGrading Inc. They discuss the TopGrading method for hiring A-players and the benefits it brings to companies.

Dr. Smart shares how he came to be passionate about helping companies hire high performers. He explains the definition of A-players and emphasises the importance of spending time on the hiring process to attract top talent.

They discuss the importance of reference calls and the benefits of tandem interviewing. They also explore strategies for getting more candidates to apply and the role of applicant tracking systems.

Takeaways

• Top grading is a method for hiring A-players, high performers who would be enthusiastically rehired.
• The top grading method involves thorough interviews, honest resumes, and verification of candidates' claims.
• Recruiting from personal networks and using job boards can help attract a pool of potential A-players.
• To build a team of A-players, it is important to set a high hiring standard and be willing to replace B and C players. Top grading is a valuable method for hiring and can lead to significant improvements in company performance.
• Reference calls are an essential part of the top grading process and can provide valuable insights into a candidate's performance and fit.
• Tandem interviewing, where two interviewers work together, can help ensure a thorough and effective interview process.
• Taking small steps and implementing top grading gradually can lead to success and improved hiring outcomes.
• Applicant tracking systems can help streamline the hiring process and track the activities and progress of candidates.
• Building a better business involves hiring and promoting A players and focusing on talent as the ultimate lever for success.

Follow Dr Brad Smart 
Website: www.topgrading.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/2720087/admin/feed/posts/
Topgrading PreScreen Snapshot - https://topgrading.com/prescreen-snapshot/

Books on this episode
Brad Smart’s book recommendations
Winning by Jack Welch https://amzn.to/3uOUBEo
Execution by Larry Bossidy https://amzn.to/3P1iM9E
Foolproof Hiring: Powerful, Proven Keys to Hiring HIGH Performers by Dr Brad Smart & Chris Mursau https://amzn.to/3V2lpKk
Topgrading (How To Hire, Coach and Keep A Players) by Brad & Geoff Smart https://amzn.to/3x2Ws9P

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Onboarded for Managers: Helping managers bring new hires to the point where they are more effective faster.

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