If you’re in the process or starting a new business or entrepreneurship venture, you are facing the daunting task of hiring employees. How do you know who to hire? How do you find the best people for your company? Here are some tips:

• Ask for references (and use them). References should match the most relevant job experience.
• Ask good interview questions. Ask questions that give you a good understanding about how the job candidate responds in certain situations – Questions like “What would you do if…”
• Ask questions to determine if the candidate would fit for your work environment. Do you need a team player? Ask whether the job candidate prefers to work independently or with people?
• Hire interns. If you work with interns, you’ll be able to observe them on the job. Many times, an intern will turn out to be a great full time employee.
• Try trial period, contract work or part-time workers first. This will give both of you an opportunity to determine whether your company is the best fit for the employee.
• Gauge the job candidate’s enthusiasm. If your potential employee doesn’t seem to have much of an interest in your business and knows little about what you do, then chances are they just don’t care that much and his or her apathy will probably affect job performance.
• Have a real conversation in the interview. Many times, interviews are stilted and uncomfortable. Try to chat a little before you get to the more formal interview questions. This kind of conversation may help you understand the job candidate’s personality.
• When trying to make sure that you keep your great employees, remember to have your employees do regular boss evaluations. This will be invaluable feedback about your leadership style.
• Meet with each of your employees to find out how you can better meet their needs. Ask what they’re enjoying and disliking about their jobs.
• Ask for suggestions from your employees about how your business is run.