Q:     How can I attract and keep quality employees for my small business?

–Curious Entrepreneur

A:      Dear Curious:

In today’s competitive environment, it is increasingly difficult to attract high-quality employees. Of course, salary and benefits are always important. However, there are many things you can do that add value to your business and make it more attractive to potential hires.

Start by defining your company’s core values. What is your mission? What is it you’re trying to achieve? Where does your business fit in within your industry? Establishing company values and educating everyone about them gives your business a sense of purpose when difficult decisions need to be made. Your core values should reflect your mission statement and your brand.

Next, bolster your company’s reputation online. Start with your company’s web site, but don’t stop there. Work with an online marketing expert—or educate yourself—about how to improve user-generated content (UGC) about your company. You’ll need to target online reviews, social media comments, blog posts, and employer reviews. It is the rare job candidate that does not perform an online search of a prospective employer.

Finally, once you have attracted talented employees, keep them happy. For many employees, salary is not the key. Instead, focus on understanding the lifecycle of your employee, circumstances such as marriage, childbirth, and death. As employees see your compassionate nature and trust in them, their loyalty and commitment often grow.

Family Business Lawyers® offer a complete spectrum of legal services for businesses and can help you tackle difficult employment issues. Family Business Lawyers® also offer a LIFT Start-Up Session,™ which includes employment structuring, financial, and tax systems you need for your business.