Well, that was a mistake!
I Was Desperate, I took a Shortcut = EPIC FAIL
I can positively share that this past week ranks as one of the worst weeks of the year for me so far. I'm not sure where to start, but I feel I need to own up to something so that:
- I don’t do it again, and
- You can learn from it and not make the same mistake.
I always emphasize the importance of learning from others' mistakes so we don’t replicate them. It’s crucial to understand that just because circumstances differ doesn't mean the same issues won't affect you.
I wish I had heeded my advice last week. I could slap myself (and have, metaphorically, a hundred times) for committing an error I often preach against. As I share my mistake, I swallow an accountability and embarrassment pill.
I hired someone without following the proper process outlined in our HR module. Then, I made another epic error: I ignored the signs that "it wasn't working out" for six weeks and failed to adhere to my "hire slow, fire fast" principle. The result? Stress among the entire team, inefficiency for clients leading to complaints, poor service, and unhappy staff members frustrated by their inability to deliver. This has been a rollercoaster of errors and complaints from all directions.
At this point, I’m asking myself, “What the actual?” Please tell me I'm not the only one who has done this recently. If you've made a bad hire in the last few months, disregarded the steps and checklists in the HR module, and it exploded in your face, I'm earnestly asking (begging and pleading, actually) for you to email me back and share your story.
I have no one else to blame but myself. After a horrendous week, I've come to terms with this and am ready to take the bull by the horns to rectify it. I am committed to doing this right and following my own advice. Do you remember the checklist I provided? I hope you're utilizing it, as it truly is a lifesaver when it comes to hiring staff.
After some reflection, I have six top tips to share this week for when you're about to hire a new team member:
- Follow the checklist in the HR Module.
- Write a clear and concise job specification and skills requirement.
- Compile a "deal breaker" list and adhere to it (no self-negotiation).
- Take your time.
- Trust your instincts.
- If you realize you’ve made a hiring mistake, act swiftly to terminate the employment.
I hope this offers some assistance, but what will significantly benefit you is Module 3 in our Business Management Membership Dashboard. This module focuses extensively on effectively managing "humans" in your business, featuring over 10 tools and templates for immediate implementation. This can save you countless hours and a substantial amount of money.
Till next week!
