The guide to setting up your new business - part 9

Step 25 - Prioritise recruitment over other activities and run a complete interview programme

Your people are one of your most important resources, so make sure you invest the time to find the best candidates. An essential tool in the recruitment process is the job description.  To create a job description it is useful to conduct an analysis of the role which includes mapping out the daily tasks and skills required of the employee. By clearly identifying the duties of the position and the skills required, you can make more efficient use of the interview and selection process. It will also cut down on the number of unsuitable applicants and reduce the amount of time wasted. Once you have received all your applications, draw up a shortlist of candidates to interview and do some thorough preparation prior to the interviews. Read through all the shortlisted candidates’ CVs again, identify any gaps in employment you may wish to explore further, and prepare a range of open ended questions. Also, consider what the candidate may ask of you, such as information about the company, career progression etc. When interviewing, it is always useful to get a second opinion, so either invite someone else into the interview or ask them to conduct a separate interview.

Step 26 - Follow up on references

When you are hiring a new employee, it is important to follow up on all references, to check they are who they say they are and that their past employment and qualifications are correct.

Step 27 - Construct a full induction programme for new starters

In order to fully integrate staff into your organisation, it is vital to offer some kind of induction programme.  This not only formally welcomes them into your business but also provides them with access to the resources they need to perform their role effectively within a short timeframe.  By setting off on the right foot, your staff will develop a positive attitude to their work and organisation and it will help to enhance staff retention in the longer term. 
 
Step 28 - Provide full terms and conditions of employment within two months

It is a legal requirement for you to provide every employee a full written statement of terms of employment within two months of starting work. You are also required to give employees the health and safety information needed for their position. Ideally, you should provide them with a health and safety policy document and ask them to sign it, once they have read it.