The people you’re working with today aren’t necessarily the people you’ll be working with tomorrow. They may be lured away by other opportunities. Or have to relocate because of their spouse’s job. Or maybe they just need a change. Turnover is an inevitable part of running a business. And, like it or not, its effects can be felt across a company.
Finding a warm body to fill an open position isn’t exactly hard – but it’s not exactly right, either. When you’re a man down because of turnover or growth, it’s easy to want to find someone – anyone – to lessen the stress. But, for the health and longevity of your team, you have to approach hiring as a strategic decision.
You need a plan for finding, hiring, and on boarding candidates for multiple positions. Believe it or not, finding qualified candidates is a lot more involved than posting a “Help Wanted” ad.

• Find Your Rock Stars – Have you been running the same job posting for three straight years? It’s no wonder that instead of attracting the rock stars you so desperately want, you’re getting a bunch of roadies. Make job descriptions match the kind of candidate you’re trying to attract. A little creativity (and a lot of editing) can help you find the personable, fun, and engaged person you need.
• Show Off Your Assets – You can tell candidates how awesome you are until you’re blue in the face. It’s far more effective to show them. Whether it’s just a webpage or an entire website dedicated to recruitment, it should read like an ode to your unique company culture. Write some employee profiles, shoot a fun recruitment video, or just incorporate an online job application; now’s the time to build your case for joining your team.
• Get On Board – The final piece of the hiring puzzle is developing a comprehensive training program. After assessing your hiring needs, you may realize that you need to need a lot of help – and fast. Find someone to lead the training charge by compiling resources, adapting processes, and keeping the whole team focused on the task at hand.

Being short staffed – for one reason or another – can put your team in a tough spot. How do you decide when it’s time to start hiring?
Tune in over the coming weeks for more tips and best practices on how and where to hire your next superstar.
photo credit: © [BartPhoto] / Dollar Photo Club

In part 1 of this new Reman U article series, the Jill of All Trades explains how strategy and hiring fit together. Like what Aimee has to say? Comment below or email her directly!