Opinion : How small businesses can still recruit the best staff
DR Emma Smith, an expert at BRAVE Enterprise – the not-forprofit business support organisation in Bristol – answers some of the most common questions from aspiring entrepreneurs
» I run a small business but I’m finding it difficult to find the skilled staff I need. So how can I recruit the top talent?
When recruiting, small businesses cannot always compete for the best applicants by offering the highest salaries. But jobseekers are increasingly choosy about their working environments and small firms can compete on issues other than money.
You may be able to find the right people inexpensively by tapping into your existing network of contacts and staff. They often have high-quality contacts and may know someone who is perfect for your proposed role.
A direct approach can save time and money compared to traditional advertising. Additionally, the best people may already be employed and not actively looking for jobs. If you decide to formally advertise, check that your online presence is appealing to applicants. Consider having a careers page that communicates your brand values, work culture and vision for the business.
You could use case studies and links to any media coverage to help showcase your business positively. Explain clearly what sort of talent you wish to recruit and the key employee benefits.
Skilled jobseekers tend to prioritise opportunities where there is a good benefits package. If you can offer flexible working arrange- ments or home working, this tends to be highly appreciated.
People also know few jobs are for life these days and may value training opportunities. Offering a supportive culture where staff can raise concerns or give creative input to the business is also potentially very attractive. In a small business, if a staff member has a good idea or a problem they can usually discuss it with the boss directly without having to go through multiple layers of management approval.
Consider also whether you can increase the perceived value of a job package relatively inexpen- sively through adding perks such as dental and vision insurance, gym membership, extended maternity or paternity leave, or paid time off to pursue other interests or career development. If you wish to communicate that your business is modern and up-to-date with digital trends, plus let people express an interest in a role quickly and easily, you could offer to conduct initial interviews online, via remote video conferencing, for example.
Consider accepting non-traditional applications, such as a short introductory email that includes a link to a LinkedIn profile URL.