Jobs, it's on the top of every one's mind. It's been awhile since we've had any great news on the jobs front. Unemployment remains high and the answers still seem unobtainable. One opinion remains constant however, small business is going to be what fuels jobs growth. Sure, lenders are tightfisted and as a small business owner you might be a little wary about adding help, since everyone else seems to be so reluctant. How do you know when it's time to make the jump?
Here are 3 hints that might help you decide.
1. Productivity. Are your employee's maxed out? Ask them. Can you re-work task flows to increase efficiency? If you can't lighten the load with work flow changes you might have to think about adding some help to keep your staff happy and working hard.
2. Growth. Your company continues to grow and things are trending upward. We're not talking about a one or two month spike, but if you are adding new products or services and customers keep coming consider this growth a key indicator that adding an employee might not be so risky.
3. Opportunity. Are there opportunities to expand or grow but you and your current employees can't find the the time (or lack the skills) to pursue them? It might be time to add staff.
In the perfect scenario you have eliminated all waste, your staff is working hard and creatively, you are finding and retaining new customers and you recognize an opportunity for additional growth or stability that you could take advantage of by hiring help. Hire away.
Adding staff is a big commitment, if you are unsure about the future, or an opportunity you can try a temp worker, or even an intern to avoid the long term commitment. Growth and success requires risk however and our nation depends upon you.
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