A business is only as good as the people working for it, and poor hiring decisions can cost you money and time.
Here are some tips on how you can make smart hiring decisions for your small business.?
- Hire people who add skills you don’t have.
Instead of spending the time to learn a new skill yourself, hire a new employee who already can do things you can’t do. You can always increase your own personal contribution to your business by working harder or longer. The hiring process is an opportunity to give your business something new. It’s a chance to make your company smarter and more efficient than it is now, leading to more success in the future.? - Hire people who will help you reach your goals.
Otherwise, why would you hire them? Unfortunately, once the search and interview process begins, there is a tendency to hire the most likeable people, who are not always the ones who can help your business the most. A better strategy is to hire those who can help you reach your goals, then find a way to like them, too. - Consider compensation.
Go past the going rate to pay your employees as much as you can. You’ll end up with the best people, and they will reward you with performance and loyalty. Add benefits, if you can, or plan to add them as soon as possible. When employees are not worrying about paying the bills or affording health insurance, they will pay more attention to the work at hand.? - Give someone their first job.
Interns and recent grads make great hires because they are enthusiastic and eager to learn. You’ll have a blank canvas to work with, and they will never forget their first boss.? - Don’t hire based on potential.
Being optimistic is great, but realistic thinking is better for the hiring process. Hiring on potential means potentially losing out on candidates that can improve your bottom line instead of absorbing it. Focus on hiring those with a proven track record instead.? - Don’t hire whiners.
During the interview process, ask behavioral-based questions to identify potential employees who are natural problem solvers. These are the people you want on your team. Problem solvers will always create solutions, but people who point out issues or whine will always find new problems.?
Using these tips can reduce the risk of making bad hires and ensure your company culture is a reflection of your ideals, vision and goals.
?
