Every business is different, but one thing that I have heard a lot of business owners express is how challenging it can be to find good staff. When expectations are not met it can result in feelings of frustration and unhappiness for both employer and employee. Here we will look at questions for you to consider, helping to make the selection process easier.  

Before the interviewing process even begins it’s a good idea to be absolutely clear about what you want in a staff member and what you offer. Why? You will be able to create a profile of the right type of person to suit the job and also be able to fine-tune your business so that it attracts the right person. This will save a lot of stress and time by filtering out those who simply do not match your business.

What the potential candidate is offering you

• What sort of attitude and which personality type would best suit the job?
• What sort of values and qualities would they have?
• What sort of communication skills would they require and to what standard?
• What knowledge & job specific skills would they require, to what standard, and could these be taught or would they be a prerequisite?
• What standard of cleanliness, hygiene and presentation would you like? 

• What exactly (be detailed with this) does the main role involve?
• What are the standards and targets required for success? How will these be measured? Are they to report to anyone? If yes, how often and by what method? 
• Outside of the main role, are they required to assist other staff, fill in for absent staff or assist other departments? If so, to what extent?
• What are the working hours, holidays, sick leave, occupational health & safety considerations, pay structure, promotion opportunities, training and travel requirements for the role? What are your expectations in regards to the flexibility of these conditions?
• Does your business present well? Is it clean, tidy, systemised, organised, professional and still able to be fun and friendly?
• Is it a supportive environment where staff can share their ideas, feel appreciated, learn, develop, grow and also be rewarded (not just financially) for good work?
• Does it provide consistency for them to feel secure, combined with enough variety and challenge for stimulation? Just a thought... if you were a staff member in your business would you like to work there?

A word on Leadership

To get the best from people remember that humans are emotional creatures; all the great leaders know this, study this and work with it, not against it. Remember, a lot of your staff will treat your customers the way you treat your staff. What is your leadership like? Would you want to be led by you? Check in with your own attitude and interpersonal skills.

Tip:  After you answer the questions above it is a good idea to ask for feedback from other staff members (where appropriate), or trusted business associates as well, to get an alternative perspective. You can then fine-tune any areas that require more clarity or improvement.

When you truly know what you want in a staff member, what you are offering them in return and communicate that to them, there is a better chance expectations on both sides will be met. You have then created a strong foundation to attract and retain staff that will love working for you, give you their very best and be raving fans of your business.

All the best for your business success!

Nicole Murray
Business Development Coach, Hot Chocolate Coaching 

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The information in this article, and all other articles provided by Hot Chocolate Coaching, is intended for general information purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to constitute, professional advice. For advice specific to your business or life, you should always consult with the appropriate professional in order to determine the actions and laws that are applicable to your particular circumstances.