Employers often run into this conundrum when it’s time for a new hire. Depending on whom you talk to, there are negative and positive reasons on both sides of the argument. As you know, there is no clear-cut answer but these points can help you think it through and feel okay about your decision.
Hiring From Within
Hiring from within the company is an obvious way to elevate someone on board who already knows the ins and outs of the workplace and its culture. You already know their work habits, how they handle office relationships, and their reliability. There is safety in the known vs. the unknown.
Many hiring managers feel that people who have worked hard for the company deserve to be rewarded for their loyalty; hiring from the outside can do a number on morale. It doesn’t make sense to introduce a kink in the works if things are okay as they are.
It’s not uncommon for an employee to be asked to start handling responsibilities that come with the next level or different position, in order to prove themselves. This is a clear way of testing out this person in a new role without making a full commitment.
You’ll want to keep your up-and-coming rock stars, and reward them so that they stay within your company, and not seek recognition elsewhere. Keep those who are problem-solvers and they can be even more valuable than an expert from the outside.
Hiring From The Outside
A fresh set of eyes can be a good thing. If people in the workplace have all been there for a long time, it might be hard to think outside the box and come up with new ways of dealing with issues and projects. A new perspective can counteract ideas that have become stagnant, and help a company’s growth.
In certain circumstances, a candidate with non-related experience can add new insight. It’s important that the person isn’t seen as a threat, but as a leader with strengths that will help the team explore a different way of thinking.
A diverse workforce can bring a broader view to the company culture and help open up new relationships. And you never know what other connections that person might offer.
It’s a huge advantage if someone from the outside has skills and abilities that can help elevate the company’s portfolio or creative edge. New talent can help bring the company forward to help meet its larger goals.
What reasons for each of these resonate with you? If you’d like support in hiring, contact us. We’re here to help. MassHire Cape & Islands Career Center 508-771-JOBS (5627)
