Checklist to Select and Organise Your Work Crew

Adapted from Sir Ernest Shackleton

• Start with a solid core of workers you know from past jobs or who come recommended by trusted colleagues
• Your No. 2 is your most important hire. Pick one who complements your management style, shows loyalty without being a yes-man, and has a talent for working with others.
• Hire those who share your vision. Someone who clashes with your personality or the corporate culture will hinder your work.
• Be a creative, unconventional interviewer if you seek creative, unconventional people. God deeper than job experience and expertise. Ask questions that reveal a candidate’s personality, values, and perspective on work and life.
• Surround yourself with cheerful, optimistic people. They will reward you with the loyalty and camaraderie vital for success.
• Applicants hungriest for the job are apt to work hardest to keep it.
• To weed out potential slackers, choose workers who show a willingness to tackle any job, and will take a turn at the unpopular tasks.
• Hire those with the talents and expertise you lack. Don’t feel threatened by them. They will help you stay on the cutting edge and bring distinction to your organisation.
• Spell out clearly to new employees the exact duties and requirements of their jobs and how they will be compensated. Many failed work relationships tart with a lack of communication.
• To help your staff do top-notch work, give them the best equipment you can afford. Working with out-dated, unreliable tools creates an unnecessary burden.