Hiring a new team member is one of the most important decisions a business owner or manager will make. A new hire always comes with its own set of risks, investments and considerations as well as the potential for mistakes.
Success depends on selecting the candidate that meets the qualifications, fits in with the existing team and makes it better through his or her work practices.
While it is an exciting time, it can also be an extremely stressful and nerve-wracking process.
If you're gearing up to start the hiring process at your company, here are a few common mistakes you should avoid:
Not knowing what you want
In order to determine if a candidate meets the qualifications of the position, you have to identify and express what those qualifications are. What skills does he or she need? Is a degree necessary? How much experience should they have in a particular skill set?
Make a list of the job responsibilities and a corresponding list of the skills, knowledge, experience and talent the person needs to do those tasks to your expectations. With a clear idea of what you need, it will be easier to see those skills in the candidate.
Not thoroughly vetting candidates before hiring
A candidate may have an impressive résumé, but how do you know he or she will be the right fit?
Conducting background checks and calling previous employers for references can save you a lot of hassle.
Always vet the person's character and don't settle for hiring people who look qualified, it is also helpful to start them out as a consultant and make that person prove his or herself
Having an unclear hiring policy
One of the most critical mistakes a company can make is failing to define its hiring policies before beginning an employee search.
An unclear policy can confuse the hiring managers and candidates at best, or invite legal troubles at worst, especially when it comes to contract workers and exempt versus nonexempt employees.
Hiring new employees means your business is thriving and that is a good thing.
The wrong choice can cost you time, money, customers and credibility. Make the selection wisely to continue to pursue business growth while providing a positive work experience for the entire team.