Learn about the hiring process at Morning Brew and the four principles they use for making great hires, including testing for non-negotiables and finding candidates with unique experiences.
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Quick takeaways
Morning Brew prioritized hiring individuals with greatness in key areas over mediocrity in multiple aspects.
Morning Brew emphasized the importance of well-crafted job descriptions for successful hiring.
Deep dives
Principle 1: Establishing non-negotiables in hiring process
Morning Brew aimed to differentiate itself by focusing on content delivery. They designed an interview process centered around finding curious curators who could write in Morning Brew's voice. They used a simple writing assignment to narrow down the applicant pool, testing for skills crucial for writers. Despite Neil's lack of professional experience, his assignment demonstrated his ability to engage the audience effectively.
Principle 2: Hiring based on strengths rather than weaknesses
Morning Brew sought candidates with two superpowers: a passion for learning and specific writing skills. Neil showcased both during the interview process. His exceptional writing abilities and extensive knowledge of history revealed his dedication to learning. Morning Brew prioritized hiring individuals with greatness in key areas over mediocrity in multiple aspects.
Principle 3: Looking for an X-factor in potential hires
Morning Brew valued unique qualities that make candidates stand out. Neil's appearance on Kids Jeopardy demonstrated his early curiosity and hunger for learning. Additionally, Neil's involvement in an a cappella group as a songwriter showcased his creative and clever writing abilities. These nuanced qualities aligned with Morning Brew's culture and the kind of writer they were seeking.
Principle 4: Taking job descriptions seriously
Morning Brew emphasized the importance of well-crafted job descriptions. They realized that rushing this process leads to hiring the wrong person or needing to make changes later. Creating a detailed and thoughtful job description serves as a roadmap, ensuring that the hiring process tests for the necessary qualifications. A strategic approach to job descriptions saves time and increases the chances of making a successful hire.