I’m happy to say that Ralph’s is busier than ever.
However, new business makes it a challenge to maintain our high-quality standards. We need enough hardwood floor technicians to do the work, and those technicians must all be able to deliver the Ralph’s experience we’ve become known for.
That presents a challenge because—when we hire technicians (or any other position) to help us handle more work—we’re looking for a very particular type of person to join the Ralph’s family. And that type of person isn’t easy to find.
It’s great if they have hardwood floor experience, but it’s not necessary. We can train the right person in the trade of installing and finishing hardwood floors. The difficulty is finding someone with the right character, who reflects the values Ralph’s has always held as a company.
We’re searching now. Below are the specific qualities we’re looking for. If this description fits you, or someone you know, we’d love to hear from you (or them).
Mechanically inclined
While specific technical hardwood floor knowledge isn’t necessary to be hired, you do need to like to work with your hands, use tools, and put things together.
Driven to always do their best
If you’re satisfied with “so-so” as long as you get paid, Ralph’s isn’t the place for you. We want people who consider the quality of their work a point of personal pride.
Loves to please customers
We want the type of person who is not only willing to go the extra mile to give a customer a great experience, but who truly enjoys doing it. At Ralph’s, we take pleasure in serving customers.
Friendly
This doesn’t mean forced politeness. We look for team members who genuinely enjoy interacting with people—and show it. Customers and colleagues notice!
Trustworthy
This covers a lot, including being honest with customers and Ralph’s team members, being punctual, and being consistent with your work. We count on our team members to the right thing in all areas of the job.
Hard-working
Our team members are self-starters. We don’t have to prod them to get going or stay on task. They don’t mind sweating and enjoy the feel of a “good tired.” They take satisfaction in getting things done.
Eager to learn
We have a ton of experience and accumulated knowledge at Ralph’s that we make a point of passing down. We want team members who enthusiastically take advantage of every opportunity to improve their skills.
Team player
At Ralph’s, we don’t care who gets the credit, we respect each other, and we help each other out however we can. To work at Ralph’s, you must be able to function well as part of a team.
I realize this isn’t exactly a unique list. A fast-food joint might list many of these same traits as important. But at Ralph’s these aren’t just “like-to-haves.” They are qualities we absolutely insist upon in the people we hire.
Ralph’s doesn’t have much turnover at all, and many of our team members have been here for decades. I think that’s because we’ve learned it’s best to be patient until we find the right person, no matter how much we need immediate help.
They’re usually well worth the wait!
If you are interested in joining the Ralph’s family, please call us at 920.984.3383 or 800.354.9902. If you know someone you think might be a good fit for us, please share this with them. They may be thanking you for years to come!
