S13 E10: Smells Like Money Podcast: If Only I Had Known: Interviewing Tips to Hire Right Fit Talent

In this episode of DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money, Suzan Chin-Taylor sits down with Danielle Werner of Upskilled Training to discuss strategies for overcoming the challenges of finding and retaining top talent in the wastewater industry. From virtual interviews to training programs, they explore key recruitment tactics, including how to evaluate candidates’ fit for your team and how to ensure that new hires thrive long-term. Danielle shares invaluable insights, including questions to ask during interviews and tips for leveraging social media to showcase your company culture. Plus, discover how a structured training program can unlock additional support through veterans’ education benefits.

Host: Suzan Chin-Taylor | Guest: Danielle Wernert

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Key Discussion Points:

People Over Technology: No matter how advanced your technology, good people are the backbone of your business. Danielle highlights the importance of focusing on soft skills and cultural fit.
In-Person Interviews: Virtual interviews may save time but can hide red flags. Danielle explains why in-person interviews are critical for assessing candidates, especially when it comes to things like hygiene, professionalism, and drive time considerations.
Scenario-Based Questions: Learn how to ask scenario-based interview questions that give you deeper insight into how a candidate might handle real-life challenges on the job.
Interview Training: Ensuring that your hiring managers are trained in legal and effective interviewing techniques can save your company from costly mistakes.
Social Media Recruiting: Building your company’s story and culture on social media is crucial. Danielle shares why you should be showcasing your company year-round, not just when a position is open.
Retention Strategies: Beyond recruitment, keeping great talent is about empowering them through training. Danielle provides a sneak peek at how developing a solid training program can lead to greater employee retention.

Special Segment:
Danielle also discusses the Veterans Education Benefits Program, a little-known resource that offers financial assistance for veterans looking to transition into new careers. If you have a structured training program, this is a resource you won’t want to miss!

Upcoming Episode:
In the next episode, Danielle will dive deeper into how businesses can develop effective training programs to retain their best people and how they can use the Veterans Education Benefits to further support their workforce.

Contact Information:

Danielle Wernert, UpSkilled Consulting

Websites: upskilledconsulting.com

Email: danielle@upskilledconsulting.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danielle-wernert

Conclusion:

Recruiting and retaining the right people isn’t just about filling positions—it’s about building a strong, sustainable culture that keeps your business moving forward. Danielle Werner’s insights remind us that smart hiring starts with asking the right questions, understanding your company’s unique needs, and creating opportunities for your team to grow. Whether you’re struggling to find great talent or looking to reduce turnover, this episode offers practical, people-centered solutions that make a real impact. Stay tuned for part two, where we dive into training strategies that empower employees and help them stay for the long haul.

💡 Until next time—keep innovating, stay strategic, and keep it flowing! 🚀

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I hope you find this episode as informative and as exciting as we have.

Please let us know your thoughts about the episode!

Connect with Suzan Chin-Taylor, host of The DooDoo Diva’s Smells Like Money Podcast:

Website: www.creativeraven.com | https://thetuitgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/creativeraven/

Email: raven@creativeraven.com

Telephone: +1 760-217-8010

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