> For a new small business owner, especially one navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving marketplace, identifying the key attributes to look for in potential employees is crucial.
Here are key attributes to look for:
Adaptability: Employees who can quickly adapt to changing circumstances, technologies, and business strategies are invaluable. Look for individuals who demonstrate flexibility and a positive attitude toward change.
Initiative: Candidates who show they can take initiative, think independently, and proactively address issues or opportunities will contribute significantly to the growth of your business.
Problem-Solving Skills: Look for employees who are not just adept at identifying problems but are also creative and effective in finding solutions.
Passion and Motivation: Employees who are passionate about their work and motivated to contribute to the company’s success often go above and beyond their job requirements.
Technical Skills: Depending on the nature of your business, specific technical skills may be necessary. Ensure candidates have the right expertise or the willingness to learn.
Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in a small business setting, where teamwork and customer interactions are daily occurrences.
Team Player: Employees who can work well in a team, respect others’ ideas, and contribute to a positive work environment will be valuable assets.
Reliability: Dependable employees who meet deadlines, handle responsibilities, and show up on time are fundamental for the smooth operation of any business.
Learning Agility: Look for individuals who are quick learners and eager to acquire new skills and knowledge. This attribute is particularly important in fast-paced or tech-centric businesses.
Cultural Fit: Employees should align with the company’s culture, values, and vision. A good cultural fit helps ensure long-term job satisfaction and retention.
Customer Focus: For businesses that deal directly with clients, having a strong orientation towards customer satisfaction and service is critical.
Leadership Potential: Even in small teams, having employees with the potential to take on leadership roles as the business grows can be a significant advantage.
Selecting employees who possess these attributes can significantly contribute to the resilience, innovation, and success of a new small business.
Here’s an Interview Guide for you.
To determine if candidates possess the key attributes to look for…the attributes essential for success in a small business, consider these interview questions tailored to each attribute:
Adaptability:
Can you describe a time when you had to adapt to significant changes at work? How did you handle it?
Initiative:
Tell me about a project or idea you initiated. What was the outcome?
Problem-Solving Skills:
Describe a challenging problem you faced in your last role. How did you solve it?
Passion and Motivation:
What drives you in your professional life? Can you provide an example of how this has motivated you to go above and beyond in your job?
Technical Skills (tailor to specific needs):
How have you applied [specific skill] in a previous role, and what results did you achieve? (Very important question – focus on the results they describe.)
Communication Skills:
Give an example of a time when you had to explain a complex issue to a team member or client. How did you ensure they understood?
Team Player:
Describe a situation where you had to work closely with others on a team. What role did you play, and what was the outcome?
Reliability:
Can you share an instance when your reliability made a difference in completing a project or task?
Learning Agility:
Tell me about a time you had to learn something new to complete a task or project. How did you approach the learning process?
Cultural Fit:
What type of work environment do you thrive in? How do you see yourself fitting into our company culture?
Customer Focus:
Provide an example of a time you went above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. What was the feedback?
Leadership Potential:
Describe a situation where you had to take the lead on a project. What was the challenge, and what was the outcome?
If you would like a pdf of the Interview Guide, send an email to:
