Practice Management Alert

Question: I was just put in charge of recruiting and hiring two new office employees but I have never done hiring before. What should I be looking for?

Alaska Subscriber

Answer: Consult the guidelines for smart hiring below, provided by Greg Ford, of David Aplin Recruiting, in the journal CMA Management.

• Specify goals. What do you need this employee to do? What role will she fill in the company? 

• Set the price. What salary does the employee expect to earn when he starts? What about in two years?

• Evaluate employee needs. What kind of employee would be satisfied working in your practice? Be honest with yourself to avoid wasting resources on someone who wouldn’t be a good fit. For example, if the position doesn’t offer room for promotion, don’t look for someone looking to move up the ladder.

• Sell yourself. What does your practice offer that the competition doesn’t? If you offer “flex time,” a stellar medical package, or educational opportunities, make sure you advertise it. Attract those who value what you have. Also, have management clarify the amount of room you have to negotiate, and get it in writing.

• Scope your competition. Do they have any employees looking to jump ship?

• Consider time of year. In December and June, the market is flooded with recent graduates. If your position could be filled by someone with limited experience, target them as a cost-saving measure.

• Establish procedure. Record where you’ve advertised and what has paid off. Don’t reinvent the wheel the next time you’re looking to hire.