Frequently asked questions
Practical answers for small businesses and startups hiring their first or next team members.
How do I write a job post that attracts good candidates?
Use the job title people actually search for rather than a clever internal label, and describe what the person will actually do in their first few months. Separating must-have skills from nice-to-haves keeps strong applicants from ruling themselves out. Finishing with clear instructions on how to apply and what happens next respects the reader's time.
Should a small business include the salary in a job listing?
Showing a salary range tends to bring in more serious applicants and fewer mismatched ones, because people self-select based on fit. It also saves rounds of back-and-forth that waste everyone's time. For a small team without an HR function, that efficiency matters a great deal.
How can a startup screen candidates quickly without being unfair?
Ask every applicant the same short set of structured questions before interviews so you compare them on the same basis rather than on first impressions. A consistent set of criteria reduces bias and makes decisions easier to defend. It also lets you give everyone a quick, clear answer, which protects your reputation as an employer.
What interview questions work best for small business hiring?
Favour questions that ask for specific past examples, such as how someone handled a real problem, over hypothetical ones that invite rehearsed answers. For a small team, probe how a candidate works across different tasks, since early hires often wear many hats. Keep the questions consistent across candidates so answers can be compared.
How do I make a fair job offer to a new employee?
Base the offer on the role's market rate and the responsibilities you described, and put the key terms in writing so both sides are clear. Being transparent about pay, working arrangements and growth prospects builds trust from day one. A prompt, respectful offer also makes a strong candidate less likely to drift to another option.