7 Things to Look for When Hiring for Your Startup

Are you on the hunt for the best and brightest people to work for a newly funded startup? If so, you need to ask the right questions and use the most effective hiring techniques. Want to learn more? Check out these seven things to look for when hiring.

1. A Strong Resume

The resume. This golden document will reveal unique clues about that potential employee. By reading their resume, you can learn about their formal education, work history, and marketable skills.

Depending on how many applicants you have at a time, you may be working your way through quite a few resumes. And not all of them will be shining stars. To keep things moving, you've got to know what you're looking for in skillset and experience. 

You can speed up this process by looking for keywords and phrases indicating a candidate is a good match. But also remember, a resume is just one part of the story.

2. A Clear Background Check

Another good indicator is a transparent background check. You want to hire someone whom you can trust. That person must be responsible and able to carry out all the requirements of your position. 

If someone doesn't pass a background check, don't dismiss them right away. Instead, consider giving the applicant the chance to explain their past in an interview setting.

If you aren't sure how to get started with background checks, don't worry. There are plenty of ways to go about it. Start exploring background check companies such as scoutlogicscreening.com. On their websites, you'll be able to learn about these companies and what services they offer.

3. A Colorful Cover Letter

Although not all hiring managers or employers ask for a cover letter, they're an excellent tool to use in your hiring process. When paired with an impressive resume, the cover letter allows a candidate to show off their personality. 

Cover letters, although they aren't lengthy, contain loads of important information. They'll usually tell you how a candidate learned about the position and any meaningful connections they choose to highlight. The candidate will also use a cover letter to explain their value to the company.

4. Glowing Letters of Recommendation 

If you are looking to hire in a field with a steep competition or merit-based, consider asking for letters of recommendation. Most employers will ask for one to two letters of recommendation per application.

These documents are usually from an applicant's previous employer, trusted mentor, or another important figure in their life. This person then discusses the candidate's most noteworthy qualities and lets you know why they'd be a great employee. 

5. Ability to Follow-Up

During the hiring process, keep an eye out for applicants who follow up with you after applying or interviewing. This communication shows that they take the initiative well. The follow-up may come in the form of a thank you email or a card, excellent job-hunt etiquette.

6. Enthusiasm for the Job

When a potential hire walks into an interview and lights up when they talk about the job, this is a great sign. It means the person is passionate about the position and will work hard. If they are enthusiastic, it also means they're more likely to be a happy employee.

7. Connections in the Industry

Another thing to look for when hiring is connections in the industry. Who has the applicant worked with in the past? Is it anyone you know? If so, reach out to that mutual connection. They may be able to share some valuable information.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the strategies you can use when hiring new employees. Just remember to keep an open mind!