For entrepreneurs, hiring your first employee is a big step. It is exciting and nerve-racking at the same time. The process is quite a complex one. But, like anything once you break it down into steps and create a checklist it becomes more manageable.
Put together your ad.
The first step is creating your job ad and posting it online. You need to be very clear about what you are looking for. The best approach is to find an advert for a similar role and use that as a guide.
Working your way through the resumes.
Once applications start to arrive, go through them quickly. Carry out a background check for the ones you like the look of.
When checking the resumes, read the first half page of each one, to start with. If you like what you see, read the rest of it. The others can go into a just in case pile. That way you will not waste time fully reading the resumes of candidates who are not likely to be suitable. Make sure that they have the skills that you asked for.
Use social media and LinkedIn to find out more.
Once you have one that you like, go to LinkedIn and social media. There you can learn a lot more about the person you are considering inviting for an interview.
Do a pre-interview.
If you have any questions, go ahead and seek clarification. A good candidate will not mind answering them and they will do so promptly.
You could drop them a line. But, usually, you will learn far more by giving them a call or speaking to them via video chat.
At this stage, it is worth finding out what salary they are expecting to be paid and double check when they can start. There is no point in interviewing someone who is not willing to work for the amount you are able to pay.
Send out your interview invitations.
Now, you can invite the last few for an interview. You can conduct the interview in person. But, it is worth considering doing this using a platform like Skype. It is far easier for someone to make time for this type of interview. They do not have to spend time travelling. Most people can quickly put aside 30 or 40 minutes to talk to you online. So, this style of interview is well worth considering.
Prepare for the interview.
You need to sit down and prepare a list of things to ask. You can get some suggestions here.
Usually, it is best to ask everyone the same questions. This is the best way to compare people. It is important to have a clear understanding of what you are looking for.
Test them if necessary.
If you want to, include some sort of test in the interview process. This will enable you to make sure that they have the skills you are looking for.
Employing them.
Once you decide who you want to hire let them know and give them their start date. Before that date, there are a few things you will have to sort out. For example, get copies of their ID documents, so you can be sure that they can be legally employed. They may need to complete a short health and safety or food safety course. If you are not sure of what needs to be done it is best to get in touch with your local chambers of commerce or ask your legal advisor.
