Contrary to popular belief, the hiring process for a startup is not a race to quickly fill positions. It is important to take the time to carefully screen prospective employees to ensure they possess the key traits necessary for success in a startup environment, such as adaptability, enthusiasm, and dependability. While the specific positions needed will vary depending on the demands and finances of the company, there are eight key roles that should be given top priority when launching a new business.
As you navigate the recruitment process, it is important to keep in mind that hiring new employees can be a time-consuming and costly endeavor. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, the average cost of recruiting a new employee is around $4,700, with companies spending an average of 47.5 days to fill a job, as reported in the Employ Recruiter Nation Report.
Here are the top eight startup positions that should be filled in-house when launching a new company:
1. Chief Operations Officer (COO) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
The CEO and COO are two of the most crucial players in a startup. The CEO typically oversees the overall direction, vision, and culture of the business, while the COO focuses on the day-to-day operations that keep the company running smoothly. While these roles can be filled externally, it is common for the founders of the company to occupy these positions initially.
2. Product Manager
The product manager is responsible for all matters related to the company’s goods or services. They oversee product development, strategy, and work closely with engineering and marketing teams to bring products to market. While founders often start as product managers, hiring a dedicated product manager can free up time for founders to focus on growth and strategic objectives.
3. Vice President of Engineering (Hybrid of Chief Technology Officer)
For tech startups, having a team member focused on technology and development is essential. This person is responsible for selecting and integrating systems, hardware, software, and mobile technologies. As the company grows, this role may be divided into separate positions for front-end and back-end development.
4. Head of Community Management and Chief Marketing Officer Hybrid
This role focuses on engaging with customers and marketing the company’s goods or services to the right demographics. It is important to find a marketing manager with strong marketing knowledge and promotional skills to ensure the company’s vision reaches the target audience effectively.
5. Sales Manager
A sales manager is crucial for generating leads and bringing revenue into the business. It is essential to hire a skilled sales manager who can help drive sales and increase revenue for the company.
6. Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
While startups often outsource accounting and financial responsibilities, having a CFO on the team can provide valuable guidance when seeking loans and managing finances. A CFO is responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the company, from paying suppliers to handling financial planning and budgeting.
7. Manager of Business Development
This role is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, building relationships with other companies, and driving growth and expansion for the company. A business development manager helps identify potential markets, alliances, and strategies to attract new customers.
8. Customer Service Representative
Customer service is a crucial aspect of any business, as it directly impacts the company’s reputation and relationships with customers. A customer service representative is responsible for handling customer inquiries, complaints, and ensuring a positive customer experience.
When hiring for a startup, it is important to focus on finding candidates who align with the company’s values and culture. Networking and seeking referrals from trusted sources can help identify potential candidates who are a good fit for the company. Additionally, working with a specialist recruitment agency can help identify qualified and suitable candidates for key startup positions.
In conclusion, hiring the right employees for key startup positions is essential for the success and growth of a new company. Taking the time to carefully screen candidates and focusing on finding individuals who possess the necessary skills and traits can help ensure the long-term success of the business. By prioritizing the eight key positions listed above, founders can build a strong team that will drive the company’s growth and success in the long run.