Keys to Recruiting Top Startup Talent

Every single hire you make at the startup or expansion stage is critical, so you better make sure you’re bringing on the best talent possible. But what should you be looking for in top candidates? And how do you find them?

For starters, you’ll definitely want to build a recruiting plan, advises Keith Cline, founder of Dissero and Venture Fizz in this video for OpenView. Just as you developed a business plan for launching your startup, your recruiting deserves a detailed consideration and forethought, as well. Prioritize the key roles you need to hire, says Cline, and build out an overall plan that will lead to that successful hire. Once you have that in place it’s time to hit the streets, leveraging your network and building your recruiting brand. If you can get the word out that your company is an innovative option where employees can excel candidates will eventually start coming to you.

What characteristics should startups be looking for in talent?

Cline urges founders and/or hiring managers to aim high and never settle. They should focus on hiring the best of the best, and in a startup environment that typically means seeking out candidates who have the ability to wear many hats and have a proven track record of continuous progression and self-propelled success. While it may be difficult to attract top tier talent at first, the good news is that “A” players attract “A” players, so stay as patient and keep an eye out for established candidates and the best up-and-comers who you’ll be able to count on to help you drive you company to the top.

For more advice on recruiting top startup talent, watch Cline’s short video.