As a small business owner, you may find it difficult to weed out bad applicants when interviewing prospective employees. However, Inc. has offered advice on traits that will become more obvious over time that indicate they are a strong and valuable asset to your team.
According to the source, an employee who plans on sticking with your company for the long run will likely express interest in other departments of your business. This means, they will strive to understand the operations of other departments, and hopefully have a career goal to grow within your business. It is important that you don't have employees doing jobs outside of those included in their job description, as this could lead to a workers' compensation insurance claim. However, you should certainly hold informational meetings for all employees to learn more about what other aspects of your business do on a day-to-day basis. Detailing what each department does on your company's website can also be beneficial for those considering purchasing your product or enlisting your services.
It isn't uncommon for small companies to offer openings in management positions in short period of time, as growth can occur quickly and expansion can be a natural way to promote your employees. You should look for employees who treat your company as if it were their own, in the sense that they are able to make important decisions that will positively influence business in the long run. Your personal philosophy regarding business should be shared with others, and those who are in tune with what you are looking to build will be the most eligible candidates for continued employment.
While you may be working right next to your employees, those who have great problem solving skills and attempt to resolve issues when they're in their smallest stage so you don't have to deal with them. Catching problems before they develop into a larger issue can save you big time, both financially and via your commercial insurance rate. Inc. recommends creating a system so that employees know when they should attempt to fix something on their own and when you should be involved.
Even when things go wrong, communication is important. Successful employees will be able to "tell it like it is" according to Inc. Not conversing about issues that arise simply because they are awkward or concerning could grow to be an even greater problem later on, so those who call your attention to something out of their own worry should be heard out. Inc suggests that business owners provide their employees with a comfortable setting to talk about problems, as an open opportunity will make these discussions less troubling.
When employees spend a lot of time in the office or working with clients, it may be hard to avoid inner-office drama or complications, but a dedicated employee will be able to recognize and avoid a dramatic situation. You will want a trustworthy person who holds themselves to a high standard comparable to your own, but doesn't require much maintenance regarding discipline. By setting a positive example, you can showcase your expectations for others informally.
Positivity is important – and while it would be nearly impossible to have a smile on at all times, especially when clients are difficult, it is important that your employees understand how to deal with stress and other challenges that can arise in the work place. Those who can stay, for the most part, optimistic – will likely be the same who put in extra time and effort.
