Hiring Right: 6 Things to Look for in a New Employee

Hiring Right is like finding the perfect puzzle piece—get it right, and everything just clicks. Get it wrong, and you’ll be solving problems instead of growing your business.

So, what should you look for when hiring? Let’s break it down.

Hiring Right: Skills vs. Attitude

1. Hiring Right: Skills vs. Attitude

Sure, skills matter. But the right attitude? That’s gold. A candidate with a willingness to learn, adapt, and grow with your company will always be a better investment than someone who has the skills but a poor attitude. Skills can be taught—attitude, not so much.

2. Cultural Fit

Ever had a highly qualified employee who just didn’t gel with the team? That’s because company culture matters. Look for people who align with your business values and work ethic. If your team is fast-paced and energetic, hiring someone who thrives in a slow and structured environment could be a mismatch.

3. Reliability & Work Ethic

You don’t just need someone who shows up—you need someone who shows up ready to go. A strong work ethic, accountability, and a sense of ownership make the difference between a good hire and a great one.

4. Problem-Solving Ability

Business is unpredictable. Employees who can think on their feet, troubleshoot, and bring solutions instead of problems will save you headaches (and money). During the interview, throw them a real-life work scenario and see how they handle it.

5. Communication Skills

Whether it’s dealing with customers, colleagues, or suppliers, employees who communicate effectively keep things running smoothly. Miscommunication leads to mistakes, frustration, and lost opportunities. Look for candidates who can articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently.

6. The New Employee has a Good Track Record

Past behaviour is the best predictor of future behaviour. While job-hopping isn’t always a red flag, consistent patterns of short-term stays without strong reasons might indicate a lack of commitment. Check references and dig a little deeper into their history.

The TeamMaster HR Advantage

Hiring doesn’t have to be a guessing game. At TeamMaster HR, we help businesses like yours find the right people—so you can focus on growing, not fixing hiring mistakes. Whether you need recruitment support or HR advice, we’ve got your back.

Want to make the right hire? Let’s talk!