(DGIwire) — As a leader, you need talented people on your team. They’ll not only help you take your business to the next level but they’ll also help you solve any problems that may arise while you’re getting there. It’s why finding the right people and placing them in the right position is essential not just for you as a business owner but for your employees as well.
However, finding such talented people can be difficult. Today’s market place is flooded with talented individuals ranging from fresh college graduates to seasoned veterans. The process can certainly seem daunting but remember; the more diligent you are pre-employment the happier you’ll be once they’re on the payroll.
Your first step in filling a position is to look in your own house. Is there someone already in your employ that’s been champing at the bit for more responsibility or a promotion? Loyalty and good performance should be rewarded with opportunity. Or is there another person who isn’t working at full capacity? Every employee should be pulling their weight within the company. Making the determination as to whether you need to add staff or rather, adjust the staff responsibilities of those you already have, could save you the step of bringing someone new on board.
Once you’ve decided to hire a new employee, don’t limit your options. Of course there are the standard employment ads and recruiters, but talented people can be found everywhere! Conventions, special community meetings, networking events, parties, online forums…even subways and busses! Always be on the look out for potential candidates and pay attention to everyone you meet. Your next employee could be the person on the plane seat next to you!
Be prepared during the interview process. Have insightful questions ready that will help you to see the person beyond the resume. Throw them a curve ball and ask a question that they couldn’t possibly expect. Don’t just listen to them answer but watch them answer. Pay attention to their body language. Are they looking you in the eye? How do they react when they are outside their comfort zone?
Include your existing team in the hiring process. “Once I narrow it down to 2 or 3 candidates, I bring my team in to meet them.” says recognized media spokesperson Dian Griesel, Ph.D., President of DGI. “I trust our group to want and to know what’s best for our company. Dynamics and personality definitely come into play and sometimes that ‘feeling’ just needs to be there. Things need to fit.”
Once you do bring on new talent, you need to be the best employer that you can be. Create an environment where your team wants to come to work. Be fair and accommodating recognizing that in today’s world there exists the need for flexibility. Happy employees are productive employees. Happy, vested employees will move mountains to protect and grow your company. They will want to stay in your employ and will recognize the opportunities that they’ve been given.
Provide continuing education and opportunities for improvement for your employees. From as small as webinars to as large as tuition reimbursement. Doing so not only shows them that you want them to be the best they can be but also that you are invested in them. You’re asking them to be invested in you and your brand and that’s easier to do when they feel reciprocity. Feeling truly valued goes a long way.
Lastly, listen to your employees. Create times to have one and one conversations with each one. Even if it’s just five minutes, find out how things are going or if they need any tools or assistance that will make them more effective at their jobs.
Copyright-free content provided by DGIwire.