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The GIFT Hiring Method: You Can Confidently Recruit Quality School Staff
As a school leader, you can confidently design a robust recruitment system to find high-quality staff that consistently support your organization’s desired work culture.
Are you troubled about past hiring mistakes and eager to avoid making more? Poor-fit employees cost you and your leadership team significant stress and lost time as you deal with the problems they bring.
No leader purposely makes bad hires, but we can only produce what we can with the tools we know.
By shifting our recruitment mindset and skills, we will regularly hire quality employees who will be the foundation of our valued workplace.
With an average school recruitment cost of approximately $7000 for domestic school staff to $14,000 (USD) for international teachers, making just one wrong hire is expensive. Instead, consider the value The GIFT Hiring Method brings to your school. At a fraction of the cost, it provides dozens of expert-proven strategies to help you reveal a candidate’s authentic work attitude. This investment saves you money and allows you to recruit ideal candidates who will elevate your school.
Can you afford to wait to start improving your hiring? Put your school on the road to success and buy The GIFT Hiring Method today!
Are you troubled about past hiring mistakes and eager to avoid making more? Poor-fit employees cost you and your leadership team significant stress and lost time as you deal with the problems they bring.
No leader purposely makes bad hires, but we can only produce what we can with the tools we know.
By shifting our recruitment mindset and skills, we will regularly hire quality employees who will be the foundation of our valued workplace.
With an average school recruitment cost of approximately $7000 for domestic school staff to $14,000 (USD) for international teachers, making just one wrong hire is expensive. Instead, consider the value The GIFT Hiring Method brings to your school. At a fraction of the cost, it provides dozens of expert-proven strategies to help you reveal a candidate’s authentic work attitude. This investment saves you money and allows you to recruit ideal candidates who will elevate your school.
Can you afford to wait to start improving your hiring? Put your school on the road to success and buy The GIFT Hiring Method today!
187 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2025
2 people are currently reading
1 person want to read
About the author
Kelley Ridings
3 books35 followersAre you seeking to transition your career into a new role in international schools?
Are you struggling to find your dream job or searching for effective strategies to advance your career in a global educational landscape?
Imagine having the support and guidance to navigate the competitive world of international education. Whether you're an educator aiming for a teaching position or a school leader looking to recruit high-quality staff, I am here to provide you with innovative books and solutions, as well as specialized, high-quality training and mentorship. My mission is to empower professionals like you while enriching schools that power a dynamic global community.
As an award-winning veteran school leader and author in K-12 international education and leadership, I inspire educators to find innovative solutions to secure teaching or management roles within schools worldwide.
As an educator, do you struggle to find your dream job in international schools? Would you benefit from proven job search strategies to help you find that role? My book, "Teach or Lead Abroad: Easily Find Your Dream Job in International Schools," is on Amazon, Kindle, and Audible.
As a school leader, have you hired one too many ineffective employees? Have you wondered how to design a more robust hiring system to attract and recruit high-quality staff for your school? If so, I’m writing the book and designing online support just for you. It's launching February 24, 2025.
With a 30+ year global career, my international education experience as a senior school leader, author, teacher, and consultant has taken me to live and work in China, the United States, Mexico, and South Korea.
I've reached my international career dream. Now, what about you? Let me help!
Are you struggling to find your dream job or searching for effective strategies to advance your career in a global educational landscape?
Imagine having the support and guidance to navigate the competitive world of international education. Whether you're an educator aiming for a teaching position or a school leader looking to recruit high-quality staff, I am here to provide you with innovative books and solutions, as well as specialized, high-quality training and mentorship. My mission is to empower professionals like you while enriching schools that power a dynamic global community.
As an award-winning veteran school leader and author in K-12 international education and leadership, I inspire educators to find innovative solutions to secure teaching or management roles within schools worldwide.
As an educator, do you struggle to find your dream job in international schools? Would you benefit from proven job search strategies to help you find that role? My book, "Teach or Lead Abroad: Easily Find Your Dream Job in International Schools," is on Amazon, Kindle, and Audible.
As a school leader, have you hired one too many ineffective employees? Have you wondered how to design a more robust hiring system to attract and recruit high-quality staff for your school? If so, I’m writing the book and designing online support just for you. It's launching February 24, 2025.
With a 30+ year global career, my international education experience as a senior school leader, author, teacher, and consultant has taken me to live and work in China, the United States, Mexico, and South Korea.
I've reached my international career dream. Now, what about you? Let me help!
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
February 23, 2025
The Gathering Information Flags Thoughtfully with Purpose (GIFT) Hiring Method is a powerful guide focused on the hiring process in schools. The author outlines ten essential rules that shape this framework, emphasizing the importance of hiring high-quality staff ‘with the right attitude’ that aligns with the school's culture.
The book also provides useful tools that guide the hiring process. These include real world interview questions, with insightful examples, that can help hiring managers make informed decisions. Charts and figures supplement this guidance, providing visual representations of crucial aspects of the hiring process.
As a leader involved in the hiring process, I found the book to be incredibly relatable and useful. Having implemented many of the strategies discussed in my own school under the guidance of the author, I can speak to their effectiveness and relevance.
To summarize, this book offers not only a comprehensive framework but also practical knowledge and tips that help us make thoughtful, hiring decisions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and highly recommend it to anyone involved in recruitment in schools.
The book also provides useful tools that guide the hiring process. These include real world interview questions, with insightful examples, that can help hiring managers make informed decisions. Charts and figures supplement this guidance, providing visual representations of crucial aspects of the hiring process.
As a leader involved in the hiring process, I found the book to be incredibly relatable and useful. Having implemented many of the strategies discussed in my own school under the guidance of the author, I can speak to their effectiveness and relevance.
To summarize, this book offers not only a comprehensive framework but also practical knowledge and tips that help us make thoughtful, hiring decisions. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and highly recommend it to anyone involved in recruitment in schools.
February 24, 2025
This book is a real GIFT!
The hiring strategies shared in this book can be applied to hiring in any workplace.
Kelley Ridings, with a thirty-two-year career as an educator in schools, has written from his professional experience and reading this book will save you.
Hiring mistakes in some cases, could mean that those ineffective teachers and leaders will negatively impact students and other staff members. The hiring mistakes could end up costing the leadership team time and energy while also causing heartache, stress, and massive anxiety in trying to solve problems brought on by the poor hires. This means that pain points are multiplied. Read ‘The GIFT Hiring Method’ and be mindful of the GIFT rules in your hiring processes. You will be glad you did.
The hiring strategies shared in this book can be applied to hiring in any workplace.
Kelley Ridings, with a thirty-two-year career as an educator in schools, has written from his professional experience and reading this book will save you.
Hiring mistakes in some cases, could mean that those ineffective teachers and leaders will negatively impact students and other staff members. The hiring mistakes could end up costing the leadership team time and energy while also causing heartache, stress, and massive anxiety in trying to solve problems brought on by the poor hires. This means that pain points are multiplied. Read ‘The GIFT Hiring Method’ and be mindful of the GIFT rules in your hiring processes. You will be glad you did.
February 24, 2025
Dr. Kelley Ridings knows how important hiring good teachers is to building a positive school culture. His latest book helps guide school leaders in how to hire dependable teachers every time, and avoid making mistakes when hiring. I highly recommend this book to any school leader looking for some great tips on hiring effective teachers.
February 24, 2025
Simply a fabulous method for hiring the right candidate. Bad hires are a source of pain for employee and employers both. Mr. Ridings has distilled his effective process into a relatively short book, but with this system, any school (the official target for this process), or any business, will find a complete tool set for leveling up their hiring process. But hiring doesn't stand alone, and Ridings addresses school culture, leadership team development, staff development, and provides a holistic approach to improving your school, business, or organization.
Mr. Ridings does not skimp on real world examples, including potential interview questions to ask, and details on other key steps in upgrading your hiring process.
Mr. Ridings does not skimp on real world examples, including potential interview questions to ask, and details on other key steps in upgrading your hiring process.
March 7, 2025
Kelley Ridings' The GIFT Hiring Method: You Can Confidently Recruit Quality School Staff offers a structured and insightful approach to hiring in schools. The book is built around "The GIFT Method," a framework designed to help school leaders recruit staff who align with their institution's work culture and values.
One of the book's key strengths is its practical and reflective approach. Ridings, drawing from personal experience, acknowledges common hiring mistakes and provides strategies to avoid them. The ten GIFT rules serve as a strong foundation, emphasizing aspects such as attitude over skills, the importance of cultural fit, and the need for rigorous hiring processes.
The book is especially valuable for school administrators, but its principles could apply to hiring in other fields as well. It is well-structured, with clear takeaways at the end of each chapter, making it easy to implement the suggested strategies.
Overall, The GIFT Hiring Method is a well-researched and insightful guide that provides actionable steps for hiring school staff effectively. It’s an essential read for education leaders aiming to build high-performing teams.
One of the book's key strengths is its practical and reflective approach. Ridings, drawing from personal experience, acknowledges common hiring mistakes and provides strategies to avoid them. The ten GIFT rules serve as a strong foundation, emphasizing aspects such as attitude over skills, the importance of cultural fit, and the need for rigorous hiring processes.
The book is especially valuable for school administrators, but its principles could apply to hiring in other fields as well. It is well-structured, with clear takeaways at the end of each chapter, making it easy to implement the suggested strategies.
Overall, The GIFT Hiring Method is a well-researched and insightful guide that provides actionable steps for hiring school staff effectively. It’s an essential read for education leaders aiming to build high-performing teams.
February 24, 2025
Hiring is hard.
Finding the right teachers takes time.
The wrong choice can hurt a school.
I’ve seen it firsthand.
As a Vice Principal, I understand the weight of hiring decisions.
The GIFT Hiring Method by Kelley Ridings offers a clear path to better hiring. It focuses on cultural fit and shared values. This method is built on years of experience and offers practical steps for school leaders.
Here’s why The GIFT Hiring Method stands out:
↳ It provides a structured framework for hiring.
↳ It emphasizes cultural fit over just skills.
↳ It offers practical tools for busy leaders.
↳ It’s based on real-world experiences.
The structured framework is key. Ridings lays out ten rules that guide the hiring process. This makes it easy to follow. Each rule builds on the last, ensuring a thorough approach. For example, Rule #1 reminds us that hiring is the most important work a school leader does.
I’ve learned that a clear process helps everyone involved. It keeps the hiring team focused. When hiring at Nova Academy, a structured method saves time and reduces stress.
Cultural fit is crucial in diverse schools. I’ve worked with teachers from many backgrounds. It’s not just about qualifications. It’s about finding people who share our mission. For instance, when hiring for AP Social Studies, we need teachers who are rigorous and student-centered.
Ridings’ method helps avoid hiring mistakes. It ensures candidates align with the school’s culture and values.
The GIFT method also offers practical guidance. Ridings provides tools that fit into any hiring process. This is vital for busy leaders. The book includes tips for crafting interview questions and creating scoring rubrics. These tools help keep the process fair and focused.
Real-world application is another strength. Ridings shares his own experiences. He warns against rushing to fill positions. Waiting for the right candidate is often best. I’ve learned this the hard way. Quick hires can lead to long-term issues.
While the GIFT method is strong, there are challenges.
Implementing this system takes time. Training the hiring team is crucial. Start small to avoid overwhelming the team. Gradually integrate the method into hiring practices.
Resistance to change is common. Some staff may be skeptical. The GIFT method is structured, but it should not limit creativity. It’s important to remain open to diverse candidates.
The method’s focus on school staff may not fit all systems. Some public schools have strict hiring rules. This can limit the flexibility of the GIFT method.
I see many ways to apply The GIFT method in my school.
Cultural fit can be assessed through targeted interview questions. I would ask candidates about their views on collaboration and student success.
Ridings’ metaphor of getting the right people on the bus applies here. It’s not just about filling roles. It’s about finding candidates who can grow with the school.
Key takeaways:
Structured interviews lead to fair assessments.
Cultural fit matters as much as skills.
Waiting for the right candidate is crucial.
Integrating these practices gradually can yield better results.
The GIFT Hiring Method is a valuable tool for school leaders. It provides a clear framework for improving hiring. If you want to enhance your recruitment process, start small. Introduce structured interviews or evaluate cultural fit.
Over time, these thoughtful decisions will improve your school’s success. Whether you are new to leadership or experienced, The GIFT Hiring Method offers a roadmap for better hiring and better student outcomes.
Take the first step. Implement just one practice from the book. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.
Finding the right teachers takes time.
The wrong choice can hurt a school.
I’ve seen it firsthand.
As a Vice Principal, I understand the weight of hiring decisions.
The GIFT Hiring Method by Kelley Ridings offers a clear path to better hiring. It focuses on cultural fit and shared values. This method is built on years of experience and offers practical steps for school leaders.
Here’s why The GIFT Hiring Method stands out:
↳ It provides a structured framework for hiring.
↳ It emphasizes cultural fit over just skills.
↳ It offers practical tools for busy leaders.
↳ It’s based on real-world experiences.
The structured framework is key. Ridings lays out ten rules that guide the hiring process. This makes it easy to follow. Each rule builds on the last, ensuring a thorough approach. For example, Rule #1 reminds us that hiring is the most important work a school leader does.
I’ve learned that a clear process helps everyone involved. It keeps the hiring team focused. When hiring at Nova Academy, a structured method saves time and reduces stress.
Cultural fit is crucial in diverse schools. I’ve worked with teachers from many backgrounds. It’s not just about qualifications. It’s about finding people who share our mission. For instance, when hiring for AP Social Studies, we need teachers who are rigorous and student-centered.
Ridings’ method helps avoid hiring mistakes. It ensures candidates align with the school’s culture and values.
The GIFT method also offers practical guidance. Ridings provides tools that fit into any hiring process. This is vital for busy leaders. The book includes tips for crafting interview questions and creating scoring rubrics. These tools help keep the process fair and focused.
Real-world application is another strength. Ridings shares his own experiences. He warns against rushing to fill positions. Waiting for the right candidate is often best. I’ve learned this the hard way. Quick hires can lead to long-term issues.
While the GIFT method is strong, there are challenges.
Implementing this system takes time. Training the hiring team is crucial. Start small to avoid overwhelming the team. Gradually integrate the method into hiring practices.
Resistance to change is common. Some staff may be skeptical. The GIFT method is structured, but it should not limit creativity. It’s important to remain open to diverse candidates.
The method’s focus on school staff may not fit all systems. Some public schools have strict hiring rules. This can limit the flexibility of the GIFT method.
I see many ways to apply The GIFT method in my school.
Cultural fit can be assessed through targeted interview questions. I would ask candidates about their views on collaboration and student success.
Ridings’ metaphor of getting the right people on the bus applies here. It’s not just about filling roles. It’s about finding candidates who can grow with the school.
Key takeaways:
Structured interviews lead to fair assessments.
Cultural fit matters as much as skills.
Waiting for the right candidate is crucial.
Integrating these practices gradually can yield better results.
The GIFT Hiring Method is a valuable tool for school leaders. It provides a clear framework for improving hiring. If you want to enhance your recruitment process, start small. Introduce structured interviews or evaluate cultural fit.
Over time, these thoughtful decisions will improve your school’s success. Whether you are new to leadership or experienced, The GIFT Hiring Method offers a roadmap for better hiring and better student outcomes.
Take the first step. Implement just one practice from the book. You might be surprised at the difference it makes.
February 25, 2025
The GIFT Hiring Method by Kelley Ridings
Kelley Ridings has truly outdone himself with "The GIFT Hiring Method: You Can Confidently Recruit Quality School Staff." As a part of the School Jobs Mastery Series, this book serves as an invaluable resource for anyone involved in the recruitment process within the educational sector.
From the outset, Ridings establishes a clear and engaging tone that draws the reader in. His expertise in the field shines through every page, making complex hiring strategies accessible and applicable for administrators, hiring committees, and school leaders alike. The structure of the book is well-organized, with easily digestible chapters that guide readers through the GIFT framework—Genuine, Intentional, Fair, and Thorough—equipping them with practical strategies to attract and retain top-quality staff.
What I particularly appreciate about this book is his emphasis on cultivating a positive school culture through effective hiring practices. He advocates for a holistic approach, encouraging readers to consider not just qualifications but also the personal attributes that contribute to a cohesive school environment. This forward-thinking perspective is refreshing and resonates deeply with modern educational needs.
In summary, "The GIFT Hiring Method" is an essential read for anyone involved in recruiting educational staff. Kelley Ridings not only equips us with the tools needed for success but also inspires us to aim higher and choose candidates who will truly make a difference in our schools. I highly recommend this book to educators, administrators, and school leaders looking to refine their hiring practices and build strong, dedicated teams. It’s a game-changer!
Kelley Ridings has truly outdone himself with "The GIFT Hiring Method: You Can Confidently Recruit Quality School Staff." As a part of the School Jobs Mastery Series, this book serves as an invaluable resource for anyone involved in the recruitment process within the educational sector.
From the outset, Ridings establishes a clear and engaging tone that draws the reader in. His expertise in the field shines through every page, making complex hiring strategies accessible and applicable for administrators, hiring committees, and school leaders alike. The structure of the book is well-organized, with easily digestible chapters that guide readers through the GIFT framework—Genuine, Intentional, Fair, and Thorough—equipping them with practical strategies to attract and retain top-quality staff.
What I particularly appreciate about this book is his emphasis on cultivating a positive school culture through effective hiring practices. He advocates for a holistic approach, encouraging readers to consider not just qualifications but also the personal attributes that contribute to a cohesive school environment. This forward-thinking perspective is refreshing and resonates deeply with modern educational needs.
In summary, "The GIFT Hiring Method" is an essential read for anyone involved in recruiting educational staff. Kelley Ridings not only equips us with the tools needed for success but also inspires us to aim higher and choose candidates who will truly make a difference in our schools. I highly recommend this book to educators, administrators, and school leaders looking to refine their hiring practices and build strong, dedicated teams. It’s a game-changer!
February 24, 2025
The GIFT Hiring Method is a must-read for all school leaders looking to improve the hiring process within their school. Kelley Ridings draws on years of experience to present a clear framework that helps schools hire quality staff. The strategies are easy to implement, and the book offers practical steps to guide the process.
A key strength of the book is its focus on attitude. The author explains that while skills can be trained, the right attitude is the foundation for long-term success. Through the 10 rules presented, school leaders can create a roadmap for identifying candidates who will make a positive impact on the school's environment.
The writing is engaging and relatable, making it easy to spot the real-life examples of hiring successes and failures. Ridings offers an honest reflection on past mistakes, making the book feel less like a manual and more like a conversation with an experienced mentor.
A key strength of the book is its focus on attitude. The author explains that while skills can be trained, the right attitude is the foundation for long-term success. Through the 10 rules presented, school leaders can create a roadmap for identifying candidates who will make a positive impact on the school's environment.
The writing is engaging and relatable, making it easy to spot the real-life examples of hiring successes and failures. Ridings offers an honest reflection on past mistakes, making the book feel less like a manual and more like a conversation with an experienced mentor.
February 24, 2025
The Gift Hiring Method by Kelley Ridings is a detailed read on how to hire right. Written in an easy to read tone, it's 10 rules are spread across 7 chapters. It takes the reader on a journey from preparing the right workplace to designing questions , preparing for the interview process, carrying out the interview and all the way to post-interview processes such as onboarding.
Kelley's wealth off experience shines through and I recommend this book to every education leader, administrator or human resource specialist.
Kelley's wealth off experience shines through and I recommend this book to every education leader, administrator or human resource specialist.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2025
This book is an excellent Gift for both hiring managers and job seekers. If you understand what criteria you are being evaluated on, you can better prepare, present yourself effectively, and increase your chances of landing the right job.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews