Employment
Question: We are hiring for a mechanic and a very qualified candidate came in to fill out the application, the receptionist stated after he left that he smelt like he was drinking, however I did not smell alcohol on him. We called him back a couple of days later for a second interview with the Fleet Manager, and the Fleet Manager said no way you could smell the alcohol all over him and he kept side stepping. We are a drug free work place. My question is can you tell an applicant we did not choose them because we smelled alcohol on him and he was side stepping? We sent him a letter and said we selected another applicant with more qualifications, however that employee decided not to take the offer and now we have to place another ad and what if the drinking candidate calls.??? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Christine
Name: Christine
industry: Vegetation Control
RESPONSE:
Christine,
What you did is exactly the right thing to do. Even if you are placing another ad in the paper, you do not owe a candidate an explanation as to why the person was not selected. If this guy asks why the job is being advertised again, continue to say that you are looking for someone who fits your needs and leave it at that.
Make sure the first interviews are documented. If you have a doubt about an applicant’s ability to do the job, you owe it to yourself and the company to go with your gut feeling. Sometimes, your gut just tells you “NO”. As long as your decision is based on a job related issue, you are under no obligation to hire or not hire anyone.
Thanks for Asking Bob
Response from Christine
Bob,
Thank you so much for your quick response, your information was very helpful.