Lifescripts, 3rd Edition

46Responding to a Direct Report's Request to Hire Their Child

STRATEGY

It's difficult to reject a direct report's family members for employment without the individual taking it personally. In order to avoid this, you need to reinforce their value to the company and make it clear the rejection is clearly a business decision, not a reflection on them. Let them know you share in their disappointment, while at the same time explaining your decision is non‐negotiable. Your goal is to help them understand and accept the reasons behind your decision.

TACTICS

• Attitude: Be firm but show understanding and appreciation for an employee who wants to help out their family member.
• Preparation: If the direct report is asking that you hire a son or daughter for summer work, know what the company's policy and history is on this practice. Also know what your budgetary constraints are. If you're being asked to hire someone full time, know what the applicant's qualifications are, what (if any) positions are open in the company, and what salary range the applicant was looking for.
• Timing: Especially in the case of the employee seeking a summer job for a son or daughter, inform them as quickly as possible; they'll need time to look elsewhere. Also, keep in mind that this is a conversation best held at the end of the work day, so they can get home and break the news to their child.

  

• Behavior: Show ...