Small businesses have a lot to offer their employees — flexibility, a close-knit feel among the office, and the ability to gain exposure to many different job functions. These perks, among many others, are great for employees. It is important for all business owners, especially those who own a smaller business, to make smart hiring decisions. Generally speaking, small business owners face challenges when it is time to bring someone new to the team, despite having the freedom to make their own hiring decisions. It is extremely important to find an employee who will get along with your existing staff, have a versatile skill set, and enjoy working in a smaller team. Below are 9 tips to help you find the perfect fit for your small business.
1. Define the job. Really think about the job you are hiring for. Write down all duties of the position, even if it means adding “morning coffee run” to the job description. This will help you write the perfect job description.
2. Utilize your freedom. No red tape! You are free to use an agency to help you find the perfect candidate. You can even start the employee as a temp, just to be sure it is a good fit for everyone. There is also the option of payrolling an employee you find on your own, or simply hiring the employee directly.
3. Never stop recruiting. Ever. Always be on the lookout for your next potential employee. If you fall in love with someone who could be a perfect fit for your organization, don’t let them get away. It is easier to hire a new employee sooner than later. There is nothing worse than having a vacant position while being short-staffed. You will feel pressured and rushed to make a decision, which isn’t always the best decision!
4. Brag about your perks. That’s right! Do you offer flexible schedules, working from home, or the option to bring your child or pet to work on occasion? Talk it up! Job seekers today are looking for more than just dollars, as work-life balance is becoming more important than ever.
5. You will get what you pay for. The days of trying to low-ball employees are over. Underpaid employees will leave your company in two years, max. Employers want to see a positive ROI on their employees. Don’t lose your good employees by undercutting salaries; it is far more expensive to lose them than to increase their salary.
6. Discuss the past. Chances are that you likely held, at one point in time, the position that you are now hiring for. Discuss the positives and negatives of the position, and find out how the candidate would handle those situations. Determine if the candidate has the personality and skills needed to thrive in the position.
7. Company culture really matters. The new employee must get along with your existing staff in order to have a seamless process throughout the office. The dynamic of the group, especially in a small business, is critical to the company’s success. Again, a bad hire is more expensive for a small business due to the impact it makes on the company as a whole.
8. Be too honest. Tell the applicant exactly what the job entails, including the menial duties that some may turn their nose at. Be upfront about the future of the position and if there will ever be potential for growth. Explain your expectations for the position and how a candidate can achieve success within your company.
9. Don’t rush it! This may be the biggest mistake made by owners or managers. Wait for the right candidate. Don’t hire out of desperation. It never works out and a bad hire is quite expensive. Recruit on a constant basis to avoid ever having to hire an new employee while you are short staffed. If you are really in a pinch, hire a temporary employee just to get by until you have identified a candidate to join your company long-term.
Small business hiring is no easy task. If you need assistance identifying potential candidates, please contact one of our Account Managers. Good luck!
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