Know what you are looking for

The very first thing you need to do is clarify what job you are recruiting for.

Consider the tasks the new recruit will need to complete and the people that they will be working with. You need to find someone with the right skills to do the job and the personality to fit your work culture.

It's important to spend time thinking about this, so you can answer any questions an applicant might have. The more thoroughly you can answer questions the more attractive the position will look to job seekers.

The following is a list of questions to ask yourself to help define the job:

• What work will they do?
• What are the specific duties of the position?
• What is the job title?
• Where will they work from (eg: at the office or from home)?
• Who do they report to?
• Does anyone report to the position?
• What skills do they need?
• Do they need any qualifications
• Do they need experience and if so how much?
• How are you going to assess their performance?
• How many hours a week will they work?
• Is the position full-time, part-time or casual?
• Could a trainee or apprentice do the job?
• Could you promote from within the business?
• How much will you pay them?

With your answers to these questions you'll be able to write a job description, your selection criteria and an advertisement.

What's next...

• Step 2: Attract candidates
• Step 3: Managing applications
• Step 4: Conducting interviews