When is the right time to make your first HR hire?

HR doesn’t have to mean no longer wearing ripped jeans or graphic t-shirts, no more coming in late or leaving early, no more messy buns or happy hours.

If your company is close to 50 employees or more then I’m talking to you. HR will make your life easier in the short and long haul…I can promise you that. If you’re projecting growth and want to get top talent in the door, you should hire HR. In smaller companies, typically, HR’s responsibilities are dispersed amongst several employees or management - why not take it off their plates and bring in a top-notch expert who knows employment law and best practices? I could go on and on with reasons why an HR professional could be right for you…

The list below will give you pointers on the core HR functions that your first HR hire should have exposure to and experience with. I always suggest a well-rounded, experienced, HR professional who started their career in recruitment. Don’t get me wrong, HR is always evolving into something greater and better but here’s a starting point:

• Hiring and selection

• Performance and Talent Management

• Training and advancement

• Succession planning

• Data & Analytics

• HR Systems and Technology

• Total Rewards

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Employee Engagement

• Health and wellness

There comes a time when you need to invest in hiring an HR person, so why not now? Make sure you do your research and homework when you’re ready to make this crucial hire. If you’re looking for some advice or feedback on what to do, Juno Search Partner’s HR & Talent Acquisition team would be more than glad to help.