I can’t find the right person for the job. Help!

Dear Aunty B

I run a business that employees about 15 staff. I have highlighted the need for a person to take on a management role besides myself but do not believe I have anyone else on staff who can play that role.

However, at the same time have not been able to find anyone from outside the business either. My gut feeling is that none of my existing staff have earned the opportunity or have shortcomings that make me quite nervous.

What should I do?

Thanks,
Caroline

Dear Caroline,

Keep looking. Use LinkedIn and Twitter to ask around – not just here but overseas. Look at your competitors. Who does that role there? Can you poach them? Can you use a headhunter?

Better the devil you know so have a look at your existing staff. Who is the most likely? How can you mitigate against their shortcomings? As for your comment that they have not yet earned the opportunity – talk about the role with them. Be very open about your concerns and ask them to come back to you and show you why they deserve a chance at the job. Tell them you will only increase their salary a little now but there will be big upside in six months if they perform.

A third alternative is to hire someone in at a slightly more junior position. Choose someone who is ambitious and smart and train them for the new role.

Above all, keep an open mind. Sometimes I have had misgivings about promoting staff but more often than not they have surprised and delighted me with their over-performance. In fact, that is one of the most satisfying things about being a boss. Taking a punt on a staff member and watching them blossom!

Good luck!
Your Aunty B

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