The question eventually arises in the life of any small business; is it time to hire? Since strong HR management is integral to growth, it’s important to know how to answer this question.

Is it time to hire your first full-time employee?

• When not to hire a full-time employee
Although it may be tempting to rush into your first hire, try to resist the urge until you’ve defined the tasks your new employee will be responsible for. A lack of clarity will only eat up valuable time and money. Additionally, if you’re unsure your finances are stable enough to pay an employee, it’s better to hold off for now. Hiring an employee should never be a quick fix. Rather, growing your team should be part of a larger proactive strategy. Consider hiring a consultant or contractor rather than full-time staff when help is needed to complete a client contract.

• When to hire your first full-time employee
If you’ve determined you need help with tasks that either aren’t suited to your abilities, or which fall under a specific skill set—like computer and analytical skills, for instance—this is a good sign that it’s time to count a full-time employee among your ranks. Ultimately, every hire should in some way generate revenue or save money for your business’s. Of course, in addition to complementary skill sets, employees should also share your business’s values, vision and commitment!

Aligning HR strategy with business strategy Some employers take longer than others to realize that cultivating a healthy work environment can help you reach your goals faster. A positive workplace is one in which teamwork runs smoothly, productivity is high and turnover is low. A reputation as an ethical employer is also valuable in and of itself, since many clients or would-be clients evaluate more than simple products or services. If you treat your employees as valued assets capable of taking care of the day-to-day while you work toward the future of your business, you’re on the right track!

Plan for retention!
Making a first hire can be very exciting. But since recruitment and training take time and resources away from your core activities, it’s particularly important that you plan for employee retention. One of the best ways to keep your employees around long-term is to ensure you hire someone with both a complementary skill set and a shared enthusiasm about your goals. Never underesti- mate the staying power of personal investment. Your business will thank you in the long run!

Whether you’re ready to make your first hire or are still focused on turning your business idea into a rea- lity, YES’s business coaches can help you through the process. Visit yesmontreal.ca to see how.