Why It Matters Who You Work With

DSC_1213They say that patience is a virtue, but when your business suddenly needs to hire or you feel desperate for clients, can beggars be choosers? Even though times may feel tense, that doesn’t mean you should take any Joe Shmoe that walks in the door. You’re potentially going to be seeing this person frequently, passing them in the hallways, collaborating with them, and doing business with them. Sometimes, being picky pays off – to a point, of course. So how do you pick who you work with without being too picky?

Have A Specific Description

Whether you are looking to hire or are searching for a new client, know exactly what you’re looking for. If you’re hiring, make sure that the job description is tailored to a specific group of individuals, based on the type of position you are trying to fill. The more vague the description is, the more candidates will think that the position applies to them and the more difficult it will be for you to find what you’re looing for. As for clients, make sure you envision whom your ideal client is and go after them. If someone comes in that doesn’t align with your area of business, don’t be so desperate that you consider going against your company’s beliefs and clientele.

Have An Open Mind

Even though someone may appear to be the best candidate on paper, attitude can be everything. Never underestimate the power that attitude can have on the work environment. One resource article about pickiness when hiring the right financial professional stated that “On the basis the fundamentals are present; our advice is hire for attitude and train for the skills that may be lacking, everyone needs an upward learning curve. If someone has the technical ability, is of high caliber and a good ‘fit’, and demonstrates to right attitude then give them a shot. You may just find you save and whole lot of time and will be pleasantly surprised.” They then went on to quote William James saying, “It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficult task which, more than anything else, will affect it’s successful outcome.” I would have to agree that when comparing two candidates or potential clients, if one is paper-perfect with a unpredictable attitude, and one appears slightly less experienced with an enthusiastic, ready-to-learn, bring it on attitude – I would consider choosing the latter.

Have Patience

Good things often come to those who wait. Even though the pressure might feel like it’s putting you under a time constraint, weigh the consequences of accepting “not so ideal” clients. If you rush and make a risky decision, you’ll then have to deal with the repercussions. Also, make sure you keep your situation in perspective. How much will it truly affect the company if it takes you a little longer to find someone who truly benefits everyone?

With this in mind, you will be on your way to finding the best of both worlds. Not only will you be on your way to finding your ideal client or candidate, you will also be contributing to keeping a positive work environment and decreasing an extremely stressful situation!

Do you think it matters who you work with? How do you handle hiring an employee or looking for new clients in a stressful time?

About Jamie Teasdale

Jamie Teasdale founded Propel Businessworks, a small business development company, in 2009. Since then, she has been lending insight and creativity to businesses all over the U.S., giving them the tools they need to plan, promote, and prosper.