There are really three kinds of employees:
(1) Those who give us energy;
(2) Those who drain our energy; and
(3)Those who don't affect our energy.
When you're about to hire someone, it pays to go beyond examining their resumes, checking their credentials, and evaluating them in interviews.
After interacting with them, ask yourself: How do I feel?
Are you energized? If so, this augurs well. You may have found yourself a winner; someone who is a joy to work with, and a net plus to your organization.
If you feel no effect, the person may be acceptable, and turn out to be a consistent contributor, who neither motivates nor de-motivates you, or her colleagues.
But if you feel tired or drained of energy, watch out!
This person could be an "energy vampire,” someone who sucks away the life force from your work group.
You won't find this characteristic in any hiring manual or book on employee relations or the best hiring practices. But from the viewpoint of everyday atmospherics, an energy Dracula can drain your spirits and your performance faster than you can say, "Welcome to Transylvania!”
If you
Use a typical excuse, then thank your lucky stars, and keep wearing that protective garlic around your neck!
Dr. Gary S. Goodman, President of Customersatisfaction.com, is a popular keynote speaker, management consultant, and seminar leader and the best-selling author of 12 books, including Reach Out & Sell Someone® and Monitoring, Measuring & Managing Customer Service. He is a frequent guest on radio and television, worldwide. A Ph.D. from USC's Annenberg School, Gary offers programs through UCLA Extension and numerous universities, trade associations, and other organizations in the United States and abroad. He is headquartered in Glendale, California, and he can be reached at (818) 243-7338 or at: gary@customersatisfaction.com.