What Does a Hiring Manager Do?
A hiring manager is typically the team leader who is looking to bring in a new employee. They’re responsible for defining the job role, screening candidates, conducting interviews, and ultimately selecting the best person for the position. Unlike recruiters or HR professionals, who handle broader hiring functions, hiring managers are directly affected by their hiring decisions. They need to ensure that the candidate they choose fits well with the team and contributes positively to the company’s success.
How Hiring Managers Differ from Recruiters and HR
Many people confuse hiring managers with recruiters and HR professionals, but each plays a distinct role in the hiring process.
- Hiring Managers are the leaders of the team that is hiring. They define the job requirements, conduct interviews, and make the final decision on who to hire.
- Recruiters focus on sourcing candidates, screening resumes, and managing the hiring pipeline. They help find potential employees but do not make the final hiring decision.
- HR Professionals oversee the hiring process from a company-wide perspective, ensuring compliance with policies, managing employee benefits, and handling administrative tasks.
While recruiters and HR professionals facilitate the hiring process, hiring managers have the most direct stake in choosing the right candidate for their team.
Key Responsibilities of a Hiring Manager
A great hiring manager does much more than just interview candidates. Their job is multifaceted and plays a key role in a company’s success. Here’s a deeper look at their responsibilities:
1. Writing Job Descriptions
Hiring managers create job descriptions that accurately reflect the needs of their team. They outline the skills, experience, and qualifications necessary for success in the role. A well-crafted job description helps attract the right candidates.
2. Screening and Interviewing Candidates
Once applications start coming in, the hiring manager works with recruiters to screen resumes and shortlist candidates. They then conduct interviews, assessing technical skills, cultural fit, and growth potential.
3. Collaborating with HR and Recruiters
Hiring managers don’t work alone. They partner with HR and recruiters to create a seamless hiring experience. While HR ensures compliance and recruiters source candidates, the hiring manager ensures that the new hire meets the team’s needs.
4. Making the Final Hiring Decision
After rounds of interviews, the hiring manager weighs all the input from their team and makes the final call. They consider not only a candidate’s skills but also how they will fit into the company’s culture.
5. Onboarding and Team Integration
A hiring manager’s job doesn’t end once a candidate accepts the offer. They often play a role in onboarding, ensuring the new hire feels welcomed, understands their role, and integrates smoothly into the team. This helps set the new employee up for success from day one.
What Makes a Good Hiring Manager?
Not all hiring managers are the same. Some excel at selecting top talent, while others struggle with the process. What separates a great hiring manager from the rest? Here are some key qualities:
Strong Communication Skills
Hiring managers need to clearly articulate job expectations, provide constructive feedback, and engage candidates in meaningful conversations.
Decision-Making Ability
Making a hiring decision is not easy. A great hiring manager can evaluate multiple candidates, weigh the pros and cons, and make a confident choice.
Leadership and Vision
Since hiring managers are often team leaders, they need to understand how a new hire will contribute to long-term company goals.
Ability to Identify Potential
Sometimes, the best candidate isn’t the one with the most experience—it’s the one with the most potential. A good hiring manager can spot talent that may not be obvious on a resume.
The Takeaway
The hiring manager is one of the most influential figures in the recruitment process. They don’t just choose candidates; they shape a company's future by selecting the best talent to drive success. By understanding their role, both job seekers and employers can improve their approach to hiring and career growth. Whether you’re an employer looking to refine your hiring process or a candidate preparing for an interview, knowing what a hiring manager does can make all the difference.
If you’re looking for employees and are ready to build a strong, reliable remote team, schedule a free call with us and find the right fit for your open positions.
