Hiring Myths Dispelled: Overcome Your Objections

I hear objections every day when it comes to hiring. But the reality is that you just aren’t going to be able to grow and scale without adding some manpower (and some brains) to your team.

I’ve hired a lot of people working in HR for a large organization. But as a business owner, it feels a little different. The stakes feel higher because you’re so close to the ground. 

If you’re feeling the pull to hire for the new year but also feel some resistance, let me dispel some of your misunderstandings so you can make a more confident decision.

1. It’s too expensive. (Also known as: I can’t afford it.)

I believe that if growth is part of your annual plan, you can’t afford to not hire someone. As long as you do it right. The goal is to withhold several months of a new hire’s salary or pay so you don’t feel the pressure to make back that pay right away.

If you’re starting to think about hiring, set aside 5-10 percent of profit every month so it’s not so much of a burden on your own take-home pay. This also helps you budget when your new team member comes on and gives you time to earn that ROI back.

2. I won’t get the ROI I need.

It’s true that new hires need some time to get acclimated to your systems before they can perform their best. But if you’ve done all the back-end work prior to hiring, you’ll be a step ahead. You should have identified the processes and functions for the new hire so you can space out the training a bit. This gives more realistic expectations to you and the new hire.

If you’re concerned about ROI and your new team member’s performance, know that it takes up to a full quarter for her to be fully functioning.

3. It’s all just so confusing!

I hear you, sister! Do you need to hire a freelancer or an employee? What paperwork do you need them to fill out? What are the tax benefits (and legal challenges) of each type of hire? What’s the best way to onboard?

Heck, who do I even need to hire next? (Do I really need to hire someone right now?)

You need to educate yourself on what type of hire you need in your business and make sure you’re set up for success. Talking to an HR professional and having solid systems in place ahead of time will help to put your mind at ease.

4. I can’t find the right person for the job.

This may well be true, but it’s probably because you’re not looking in the right place or making some big hiring blunders. Maybe you keep hiring the wrong person or you’re just spinning your wheels in the hiring process.

Either way, it’s likely your process and not the quality of the candidates that’s causing you frustration.