HOW TO SUCCESSFULLY EMPLOY PEOPLE

Our guide to maximising opportunities by growing your team

The one lesson I have learned...

‘KEEPING QUALITY and Traditional CRAFT SKILLS at THE HEART OF THE BUSINESS HELPS ME TO STAY TRUE TO WHAT’S IMPORTANT’

Helen Round ran her country business as a one-woman band from 2012 onwards, but recent rapid growth meant she has employed two people lately, one as an intern. ‘Employing others is a big step, one which should be celebrated. It will give you real opportunities, allowing you more time to focus on your business development,’ says Isabel Barrell, Business Management Consultant at Cognoscentis, which provides creative service solutions for home interiors businesses.

‘However, it can also be a challenge, as you don’t want too much time managing employees and losing sight of why you set up your business in the first place.’ It is essential to take the time to recruit correctly, says Isabel. ‘You will need to communicate internally within your team, as well as externally with your clients. By sharing your creative vision, you will ensure you are all travelling in the same direction. The team has to be as passionate about the company as you are, so they will flourish and grow with the business.’

Isabel offers the following practical advice to help with recruitment:

Draw up your job description.

‘Make sure it is a concise one, then think about the skills required to carry out that role. Only then can you write up your advert; targeting it specifically to the media you are using. The requirements for print are different to online, so take time to write it accordingly. Employing people is a “good news” story – use social media to actively promote your job opportunity.’

Get the most out of your applicants.

‘Ask prospective candidates to prepare something relevant for the interview – examples of work/projects that will help reflect the skills that you are looking for. Keep applicants informed about the recruitment process, how long until they will hear back from you, etc. Set yourself a timetable for recruiting, and stick to it.’

Plan and prepare your interviews.

‘Lay the groundwork with a series of questions and ensure that you cover these with each applicant to ensure consistency. This structured approach will greatly help you if you don’t have much interview experience. Try not to talk too much during the interview – let the candidate speak and you will learn much more about them. Give time for the applicant to ask questions.’

‘A successful appointment is only half the process

– the first few months will frame your working relationship with your new colleague. Make sure you give early attention to the following areas:

Induction programme.

Cover all the exciting information about the business, sharing your visions and plans for the future. You should do this for every type of employment – internship, holiday job or a permanent staff member. Don’t forget the essential Health and Safety rules, together with admin and employment details.

Communicate.

Set up regular meetings with your new team and stick to them. Be visible and accessible, keep your team informed and involved.

Keep time for yourself.

Having trained new members of your team, always schedule time for yourself – employing people can use it up very quickly!

Set limits for communication both in person and electronically for you and the whole team. As your team grows, consider seeking HR support from an organisation such as the Federation of Small Businesses (fsb.org.uk). It’s an invaluable resource of support, covering areas of expertise to help you as your business expands.’