A: Your first employee can mark a turning point taking your business “to the next level”, as long as you hire that right person.  That’s why it’s important for you to carefully think and define the ideal employee for your business and not allow happenstance to define it for you.   Let me explain.  I’ve watched many business people recognize a need to “hire help”, and then stumble upon someone who comes highly recommended by a relative or friend and happens to be conveniently available to start right away.   Before you know it, they’ve hired someone whose skills (or lack thereof) determine the role of the position, instead of the other way around.  For instance, if this person were great at bookkeeping and maintaining your website but lacked those outstanding customer-service skills you were hoping for, you’ll still be stuck on the phone.

Should you hire part-time or full-time?  Part-timers are often more flexible with their hours and schedules, which is convenient if workload is unpredictable.  But you may have to fight for their attention if they have competing priorities like school, kids or another job.   Full-timers could have a higher sense of ownership and commitment, since this is probably their only job.  And who knows, with time, you might trust them enough to take a vacation. The tradeoff is you’ll have to worry about having enough work to keep them busy full-time, and eventually, perhaps, providing benefits.

Lastly, -whether it’s dog-walking, carpet cleaning or graphic design- the new hire must have similar values and share your passion for the business.  Try this, in addition to the interview, take your finalist out to lunch.  Then ask your gut, is this someone I can spend five days a week with?

Note: Although not covered here, hiring requires completing a significant amount of paperwork, consult your accountant.

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