Most standard applications and interviews consist of questions relating to ability.

These questions are relevant and necessary, but Dr. Wes Scroggins, professor of management at Missouri State University, researches different ways for employers to approach hiring new employees and managing overall employee performance.

When companies and businesses look to hire new employees, they usually focus on only one type of fit: ability. Scroggins researches other types of fit, such as the extent to which the job supplies what the individual values or desires.

Focusing on fits other than ability can lead to higher retention rates, increased productivity and better overall satisfaction for employees. In other words, employees shouldn’t just be good at their jobs — they should enjoy their job and feel as if they belong in the organization as a whole to be truly successful.

Scroggins hopes that by bringing this research to the forefront of the minds of hiring managers they will begin to practice more effective hiring techniques.