Avoid Hiring the Wrong Person for the Job

Finding the perfect employee is a difficult task-adding the right person can really be a huge benefit to your business, but hiring the wrong person can be disastrous. If you need to hire a new employee this year, follow these 4 TIPS to help you make the best hiring decision:

TIP 1: EXPERIENCE Try to find out the background of the candidate. What have they done on previous jobs? Will those skills easily translate to your open job position? Do they have a proven track record of successful employment? Can they bring specific skills that will enhance your current business model?

TIP 2: COMPETITORS Be careful about hiring someone who is or who has worked for your direct competitors. While there may be a benefit (knowledge of the specific business model, clientele, procedures, etc) there is also the danger of exposing your private and proprietary business information to a competitor. At the very least, make certain you get a Confidentiality and Non Disclosure-Non Compete agreement signed.

TIP 3: REFERENCES Always ask for at least 3 current references-AND be sure you actually call them! This due diligence on your part can make the difference by saving you time, frustration and disappointment later.

TIP 4: FOLLOW YOUR GUT If you don’t feel comfortable with an individual for whatever reason, or you don’t feel that you can trust them, move on to another candidate. Don’t try to talk yourself out of your gut instinct!

Running a successful business is a complicated undertaking and an extremely difficult task - and your employees can ”make or break” your endeavors-hopefully these TIPS will help you make 2015 your best year ever!

Leonard Newman is the Broker/Owner of Newman Realty, located in downtown San Juan Capistrano (next to Starbucks).