You want to grow your business and can't do it without taking on staff. But how do you go about it without making mistakes that could cost in the future? Independent HR consultant Wendy Einon gives her top 5 tips when taking on staff: wendy-einon 1. Clear Job Descriptions and Person Specification which has a clear link to your business goals and work as your recruitment tool. 2. Set out a plan and timetable so the recruitment process can be effectively managed. This will avoid the process dragging on or you loosing the best applicants. 3. Stay clear of ‘making do attitude towards a hire’ and support the approach ‘Only the Best will do’ even if this means the recruitment process taking a little longer. 4. Ensure a Formal Written Offer and Contract of Employment is issued and is subject to satisfactory completion of a probationary period, (with an extension to the probationary period). 5. Whilst the employee is in their probationary period ensure they receive regular reviews of their performance, conduct, attitude and attendance. If there are any areas of concern extend the individuals probationary period or have a plan to exit from the business. For more information,  contact Wendy. email: w.einon@einonhr.com website:  www.einonhr.com if you would like to contribute an article, please contact info@boxpod.co.uk