hen you're starting a new company, you want to ensure you're doing everything you can to succeed. A business can have all the right strategies, but it's the people behind the organization that will make or break the company.
The impact of hiring the right early-stage employees will have a positive impact in getting your company to head in the right direction. You need people in your organization that not only make your day-to-day tasks run smoothly, but also believe in the company’s mission.
Before you even begin the hiring process, you need to know what to do in the early stages, and below are a few things to keep in mind before you begin the interview process.
The role of culture in start-ups
Companies that have been around for several years will usually already have a clearly defined company culture. For early-stage companies, it's important to understand and form a culture that is in line with the people you intend to employ.
Pitfalls to avoid
It's not uncommon when you're trying to find people for the job to only think about productivity and potential profits. But according to Airbnb’s CEO and co-founder Brian Chesky, a strong culture is essential to attract top talent to your company. So devoting time to establishing the right startup culture fit will have a positive impact on your operations.
Understanding your goals
Understanding your company's goals will help you determine the kind of qualities you're looking for in your team members. Prioritize your core values, communicate and reinforce them at an early stage so you set the right culture.
The five types of hires you need in your company
The founder/CEO
This is someone with vision who is a firm decision maker. He or she is a leader who thinks about and knows where the company is going, all while making positive changes for the company. The ideal candidate is not just someone who is determined himself, but can motivate and encourage those under them as well.
The strategist
He or she understands long-term strategy and short-term goals. This person is a visionary, able to spot changing trends and emerging opportunities. For the right kind of strategist, hire someone who knows how to take your company into the future.
Industry expert
They live and breathe their topic of expertise. This is someone with a passion for your company's industry who comes up with new ideas for product development. They're an expert who will keep up with the latest trends and has deep knowledge of how to connect with your audiences. Find someone who has years of experience and can give valuable insider knowledge.
Financial expert
Numbers and figures are right up their alley. They are keen on always knowing the financial health of the company and know how to properly utilize funds so the company never runs out of cash. They should be great in accounting and talented in finance strategies.
Chief operating officer
The one who gets things done. They carry out the company’s goals and make sure that everyone in the organization does it as well.
Hire someone who knows how to manage and delegate tasks, run an operation smoothly and is able to improve the company’s day-to-day operations.
Key Takeaway
If you’re looking for long-term business growth, you should definitely have a few key people in your organization.
Hiring the essential first five hires above will go a long way towards reaching that level of success, taking your company to new heights and ensuring its longevity.
