Blog

To help you find the right hires, here are some of the most commonly suggested first hires for your business.

You created a product or service, you started your business, and you finally began making a little money – now it’s time to hire your first employees. Figuring out who those people should be, however, is easier said than done.

While you might be chomping at the bit to get some more talent on your team, money is typically tight for startups, so it is important not to rush through the process. You want to hire slowly and vet your candidates thoroughly.

The people you hire will depend on your business’s specific needs, but any employee you hire should have a few key qualities: flexibility, passion and trustworthiness. It is important to hire people who are flexible enough to take on diverse responsibilities until you can expand further. When interviewing new-hire candidates, pose questions that probe a person’s drive and how well suited they might be with your company’s culture. In addition, use hands-on simulations to get a sense for how the candidate will act in common work situations.

Since every employee can have a huge impact on a startup, it is important to hire people you trust. Sue Andrews, business and HR consultant at KIS Finance, said the best way to find your initial team members is by word of mouth and personal recommendations. This can be done by connecting with old colleagues, friends and people from your alma mater.

8 startup roles to hire

There are quite a few startup roles you’ll want to fill immediately. Here are eight important ones to consider:

1. Chief executive officer (CEO) and chief operations officer (COO)

2. Product manager

3. Chief technology officer (CTO) and VP of engineering hybrid

4. Chief marketing officer (CMO) and community manager hybrid

5. Sales manager

6. Chief financial officer (CFO)

7. Business development manager

8. Customer service representative

Importance of hiring the right startup roles

A major focus in startup roles is strengthening your internal relationships (between employees) as well as external ones (between other companies and customers/clients).

Without filling these roles, your company will have no direction and lack strong leadership. In fact, 65% of business failures are due to management issues. That’s why it’s crucial to start at the top, then expand your team when your resources allow.

When filling these roles, it’s important to consider your business’s goals and values. Defining these allows you to find better matches and narrow down the skills and qualities you’re looking for in workers.

Key takeaway: When hiring for startup roles, look for individuals who will strengthen your leadership and accurately represent your brand.