in search for Mister or Miss Right

For the past few weeks I have been interviewing applicants for a position vacant in my unit. The batch of people that Human Resources sent me all graduated from the most reputable schools in the country. In fact all of them were Cum Laudes, the top of the class. Since they are newly graduates they don't have much work experience to boast but the organizations they've actively participated in and the interships that they had taken were quite impressive.

I was looking for someone who is a good researcher, someone who has patience to pacify an irritated client, someone who loves helping other people, and someone who is a prolific writer. A good sense of humor is also a must in my team!

In the thirty or so minutes that I have to interview an applicant I am supposed to be able to determine their interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, analytical thinking, problem-solving skills and what not. But what about the other skills and characteristics that are also essential for the position? How about integrity, love for work and trustworthiness, how do you determine that? Do you think good exam scores and and good psychological test results and passing rigorous interviews can ensure you that you have actually picked out a gem among the rubbles of stone?

I remembered a very unique interview I had with an American company I worked for a few years back. I was interviewed for more than two hours! The way the interview went it was like the hiring manager was convincing me that I was right for the job! How do you figure that? I was struck by something that he said to me then. I think that probably sealed the deal for me. He said, "you know my wife and I prayed for many days for God to send me the right person for the job and it seems to me that today our prayers were answered." And he looked at me with a knowing smile.

Of course I took the job! How could I not? It was the only interview I got into that acknowledged that God, too, has a hand in the selection process. And as it turned out, my prayers were answered as well. I found the 'perfect' job =)

John Maxwell says, "people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."

Finding the right people to work with is a tedious task. But saying a little prayer for Mister or Miss Right to come along, does a lot of good. I have yet to find mine - but it is something I learned that I also have to pray for. When you are chosing people for a job or people to enter in your life, it's always good to ask Him for a little guidance.

Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character and love for God to keep you there.