Hiring 20 People in 2 Weeks: Building the Dream Team in Africa
We are in the midst of rapid growth at Conserve Safari Camps & Lodges. As we prepare for the high season, we see a fascinating challenge and opportunity to find talented and aligned team members. The goal? Hiring 20 people in just two weeks. Here is our approach:
Sourcing from Our Own Networks. We tried running ads, but the results were surprisingly limited despite the high unemployment rates. It turns out that immediate or second-order referrals are the best candidates. Anything beyond is usually a significant drop. Building a network of quality referrals is far more effective than relying solely on traditional recruitment methods.
Personal Screening & Interviews. I personally screen every application and meet every shortlisted candidate myself. We evaluate candidates through a structured lens:
Virtual First Interviews. The first interview is virtual. This step serves as an initial test—how quickly candidates respond, their problem-solving abilities, and their commitment to the process. It acts as a filter that weeds out candidates who aren’t serious or capable of handling digital communication.
Rigorous Scoring System. We’ve developed a scoring system that breaks down the necessary competencies for each position. The areas we assess as an example for a Camp Manager include:
Demographics & General Assessment
Leadership & Team Management
Operations & Logistics
Guest Experience & Hospitality
Financial Management & Budgeting
Problem-Solving & Adaptability
Safety & Compliance
Communication & Reporting
Technical & Maintenance Oversight
Each candidate is scored meticulously to ensure a comprehensive assessment and comparability.
5. Final Culture Fit Interview. My local partner, Simon, conducts the final culture fit interview. We want a holistic, closely-knit dream team that works well together. This step ensures that even the most competent candidates are a good fit for the way we work.
Building a team like this is not easy, but it’s a process I believe in. By prioritizing competence, character, and culture, we are assembling the kind of team that can make our vision a reality.
Stay tuned for updates as we move through this process.
