One of the most exciting aspects of starting up a new business is creating the talented team that will help you flourish.
Yet for beginning start-ups, the hiring process presents unique challenges. You may have limited resources to source, screen, and interview candidates, while competing with much larger businesses for talent. It’s also more important than ever to choose not just the most qualified candidates, but those who understand what you’re trying to achieve and can best shape the future of your business. Keep these tips in mind to make your recruiting process more successful.
Cast a wide net
As an entrepreneur drumming up interest for your new business, you’re probably already used to networking whenever you get the chance! Use this same persistence when it comes to the hiring process. Place your job ads on your website and traditional job search websites like Indeed and Monster, but also extend your efforts to less traditional venues. Naturally, social media sites like LinkedIn and Twitter can be useful for finding candidates, but you can also speak to your personal network of friends and family for recommendations. Cast a wide net to attract as many qualified candidates as possible.
Be upfront about your business
Working for a startup is exciting, in that the business is constantly moving and changing. However, your new employees should be aware of any changes on the horizon and what your ultimate goals are. Be sure that you’re on the same page with potential employees, clearly stating your goals and how you can foresee their role in the company changing over time. Staffing needs may change frequently, so new hires should be prepared in advance if their responsibilities are bound to change repeatedly. You want to find candidates who will be thrilled to be along for the ride rather than thrown for a loop.
Involve the whole team
A small business can be like a family, so it makes sense to invite the most promising new hires to meet the whole team to see how they click. It bolsters morale for existing team members to feel as though their opinion matters; and it can prevent personality clashes that could sour the work environment.
Create an attractive work environment
Speaking of work environments, if you’re just starting out you may have a disadvantage over larger, more established companies. They can lure the most talented applicants with hefty salaries and benefits that you may not be able to afford just yet. However, what you can afford is to create the type of workplace that people want to spend time at. Providing perks like personal development programs, flexible hours, and group social outings can give you an edge over a larger corporation.
Keep the door open
One of the hardest things for those who are new to recruiting to master is the art of saying no. However, when it comes to assembling the perfect team for your new business you can’t afford to hire everyone with a well-written resume. At the same time, even if a candidate isn’t right for your company just now, there may be an opening in the future as you grow and change. Try to foster a sense of goodwill with rejected candidates and keep their resumes on file. This allows you to have an instant pool of talented contacts to reach out to during the next wave of hiring!