Your business in St. Mary Parish is up and running, and things are going well. That’s great news! But now you’re wondering if it’s time to bring someone else on board.
Hiring your first employee is a big step. It’s a sign your business is growing, but it also means new responsibilities.
In this post, we’ll cover how to know when it’s the right time to hire and the practical steps to finding and bringing on your first team member.
Signs Your St. Mary Parish Business Needs Help
Running a business can be a one-person show for a while, but there comes a point when you might need an extra pair of hands. Here are some signs that it’s time to consider hiring:
Drowning in Deadlines and To-Do Lists
If you’re constantly working late and weekends just to keep up, it’s a clear sign you need help. Burning the candle at both ends isn’t sustainable, especially when you’re trying to keep up with everything on your own.
Missing Out on Growth
Are you turning away customers or projects because you can’t handle the workload? That’s potential revenue slipping through your fingers. As your business grows, being ready to grab those opportunities is key to scaling up.
Your Skills Don’t Match Your Business Needs
Maybe you need someone who knows the ins and outs of social media marketing or has experience in bookkeeping. If you’re spending too much time on tasks outside your expertise, it might be time to bring in a specialist.
All Work and No Play
If your business is eating into your personal time, adding staff could help you reclaim some work-life balance.
Know the Rules Before You Hire
Before you start looking for new hires, make sure you’re familiar with the hiring regulations in St. Mary Parish. Check out the Louisiana Workforce Commission website for the essentials, and be sure to consider federal laws as well.
The U.S. Department of Labor website is a good place to start. Knowing these rules will help you create a fair and compliant workplace that benefits everyone.
Finding Your First Team Member in St. Mary Parish
Now that you know when it’s time to hire and understand the rules around bringing on an employee, it’s time to focus on the next step: finding your first team member. Here’s how to start your search.
Define the Job
Write down exactly what you want this employee to do. Be clear about the skills they need and what a typical day might look like. This helps you and potential employees understand the role.
Get the Word Out
Advertise your job opening on platforms like Indeed and LinkedIn. Don’t overlook your business’s social media accounts, as many people turn to Facebook for job opportunities.
Consider posting in local Facebook groups, too. If you have a physical location, display the job opening in your storefront as well.
Sort Through Applications
Review applications and select the ones that best match your needs. In St. Mary Parish, personal references can be valuable, so pay attention to those.
Meet Potential Hires
Set up interviews with your top candidates. Ask about their experience and how they would handle situations they might face on the job. Remember, you’re not just looking for skills, you want someone who fits well with your work style.
Make the Offer
When you find the right person, make them an offer. Be clear about pay, hours, and any benefits.
Onboard the New Hire
Once they accept, plan for their first day. Have their workspace ready, introduce them to any tools or systems they’ll use, and give them a tour of your business. Share your expectations and goals. Make them feel part of your business from day one.
Read more: The Small Business Owner’s Guide to Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Many business owners in St. Mary Parish have been in your shoes. Our small business resource center is here to help, offering workforce assistance for small businesses and free, one-on-one business consultations to guide you through the hiring process.
To take the next step, give us a call or fill out our online form. We’re here to help your St. Mary Parish business grow. Contact St. Mary Economic Development today to book your consultation!