How to hire an employee, contractor, or VA

When you have outlined the job description, decided on whether you need an employee, contractor, VA, then it’s time to find candidates and begin the work.

Here is how to hire:

• Advertise the work available – use employment sites like Seek, ask for recommendations from associates, or in online forums like Facebook groups, use Google to look for contractors in your area/with your required skills, or approach an agency
• Interview – speak to candidates or contractors that suit your needs, ask questions, give any details about the working conditions, pay rates etc
• Offer – (for employees) make your candidate an offer, usually on a defined trial basis to begin with
• Accept quote – (for contractors/VA’s etc) after negotiating the scope of work and terms
• Prepare – (for employees) you will need to collect employee details like their name, birthdate, tax file number, superannuation details, licences etc. (For contractors/VA’s) you may need to collate information such as website copy, logos, other trades, architect plans etc before the contractor can begin the project
• Work commences – communication is key, check in with your hire, address any issues or questions clearly and promptly
• Review – new employees will need time to adjust and become part of the team, give constructive feedback and make sure they are a good fit for the business, and that you are a good fit for them. A contractor on the other hand, has been hired to complete a specific task, review the work as necessary and detail any rectifications needed.