Hiring people is time-consuming. Firing people is even more costly than hiring at times. Being honest about your own leadership style and company culture will save time, money, and potential heartache when it comes to hiring.
Here are three common leadership styles and the types of people that will fit best with each style.
The drill sergeant
Life moves fast. You need people to follow orders efficiently and without the need for a lot of direction. If there’s a crisis and you want people putting rocks in boots, there won’t be time to explain why.
A good employee for you will be the person focused on getting the job done according to the rules. They will often possess many interests outside of work. They want to do the job and collect a pay check. Avoid entrepreneurs and overly enthusiastic people. Look for people who’s references call them timely, neat, and attentive to details.
The visionary
You cast vision, see the big picture and often get your best ideas on the beach or a long drive. You need people who get your vision and can identify and implement the detail without much direction. You’ll have their back if needed but can’t be bothered with a lot of minutiae.
Someone that is a bit entrepreneurial is a good fit. They too might have a dream. This person also has the discernment, stamina, and intelligence to get into the details without a lot of hand holding. Give them some accountability measures and a timeframe along with a few pats on the back, and let them go for it.
The plant manager
You are not afraid to get your hands dirty and could do every job in the company, if only there were enough hours in the day. You need a few good men and women that are self-directed, competent, and direction followers. You’ll be their friend off-duty and work hard along side them. But, when it’s time to get serious, you’ll bark out orders, and they will get in step.
An employee that suits you was raised on a farm or in a family business, maybe someone with military or government experience. They are smart enough to work for themselves but enjoy the security of a team, a benevolent manager.
Be honest with yourself. Go through the Myers-Briggs or some other personality test and learn how you function as well as what personality traits mix well with you.
The right people are out there. Don’t get in a hurry or be blind to your own weaknesses and needs when it comes to managing people. Hiring is tough, but firing is harder and can cost you a lot more in the long run.