The whole idea behind new beginnings is a fresh start, clean slate etc, but what is wrong with what you already have? The whole point of having experience is to learn from it and use it in the future. So why do we always want a fresh start when can have the same start with a fresh point of view?

Adding or removing staff is never easy. Most small business owners have been employees first and then have branched off into their own thing. Without knowing the nuts and bolts of hiring and firing staff themselves, it’s hard for them to know when the right time is to start taking on staff. Here are some tips for small businesses to keep in mind when hiring employees (especially for the first time).

Things you should know when hiring your first employee

• Make sure your job description is effective and will get you the hire with the skills you need
• Make sure you find out if you need a contractor or an employee and what the differences are and also if you need someone part-time or full time.
• Find out where the best places are to attract and find your new employee
• How to conduct legal interviews
• Make sure you know what is needed payroll and tax wise (For example how to get an Employer Identification Number (EIN), I-9 W-4 and W-2 forms)
• Make sure you perform pre-employment background checks it makes things easier in the long run

Once you hire someone make sure you give them a good introduction to the company in the form of an orientation to help them get settled in. All of the above will help you get a successful hire and have a smooth transition for your new hire. Hiring new employees doesn’t have to be a stressful event. Prepare yourself in advance so that there are no snags along the way.