5 Tips for Hiring your First Employee

Hiring your first employee show that your business is headed in the right direction. This transition means your day-to-day operations include having the responsibility of being an employer and planning ahead for your company’s growth!

Below are 5 tips to ensure you are on the right track during the hiring process. 

Evaluate business needs and determine an estimated budget

Evaluate the business needs that your employee would meet and set expectations for how these needs should be met.  As an employer, you need to have a good gauge of your finances and create an estimated budget. 

Most small businesses do not have a lot of cash flow and cannot offer a high salary based on the market. However, you should look at what the market is dictating, be as competitive as possible, and consider what benefits you can realistically offer. This will help attract the talent your company needs.

Broadcast your company’s vision

Job candidates look at the full picture of an employer when deciding where to work. It’s not just about the money. Take advantage of multiple platforms, social media, your company’s website, or job ads to broadcast your vision.

Effectively communicate who you are, and your company’s values. Then, you have a greater chance of attracting a candidate who shares the same values. 

Diversity in the selection process

The biggest mistake that most employers make is, looking for new hires within a limited circle of the labor pool.

Focus on diversity in the selection process and consider both the hard and soft skills an applicant has to offer. An applicant’s degree may qualify them but don’t forget to look at their work experience. Pick someone who believes in your company’s values. Once the new employee joins, they will learn about the business goals and how their role fits into your role objectives.

Put together an employee handbook

Even if you only have one employee, it’s important to be prepared for changes that can come when you begin to experience growth.

Consider putting together a handbook detailing your company policies and expectations. It’s a good way to be transparent about your expectations and gives employees insight into different procedures and processes.

Inclusive communication with the new employee 

Set aside an appropriate amount of time to devote to a new hire. Introduce them to people they may be working with and explain everyone’s role in the company. 

These introductions can go a long way in helping employees work together. People naturally feel comfortable when they can sense they are in a healthy work environment. Set the tone from the beginning for appropriate work interactions.