By Markey Read

Vermont is fertile ground for entrepreneurial endeavors and as we have seen with many start-up companies growth can be rapid and take the owners by surprise. Hence the importance of planning for growth through strategic hiring.

When we consider the different stages of growth for a company, we need to look at what kind of people best support that stage. This does not mean that loyal long-term employees need to be replaced periodically, but it does mean they need to evolve with the needs of the company or choose to join a different company.

There are four basic stages of growth: creating the vision, directing the vision, adhering to the vision, and mastering the vision with a reliable team. These stages require different skills, personalities, and energy levels. As a company grows it must hire a different kind of employee, in the latter stages than in the first. Unfortunately, it is not always the first few people who can successfully take the company to the next level of development.

Creating the Vision

In the first stages of creating the vision, the environment is very entrepreneurial, highly energized, and requires everyone to wear many hats. It would be ideal to hire people who share your vision and passion for the business and are flexible and creative.

Directing the Vision

When it comes time for the owner to direct the vision, s/he requires people who enjoy some structure and can still maintain a wide view of the mission. The environment often demands more management processes and formal procedures. This is also the stage where companies further refine their purpose and focus, hence the need for innovators and original thinkers.

Adhering to the Vision

The third stage of development, adhering to the vision, brings with it a higher level of responsibility and accountability. The people who will support this next level are seeking more formal planning and systems. They expect a more traditional structure with specialized jobs, clear expectations, and tangible rewards.

Mastering the Vision

In the fourth stage of development, mastering the vision, you require a solid team. This will a mix of the original employees who have developed with the company and newer people.

People joining at this stage are usually implementors. They are the people who will take the ball and run hard with it, while relying on the strength of the team. They enjoy the diversity of a team and safety of an established organization.

Whether you have a policy to promote from within or hire from outside, hire people with passion, provide your people with appropriate training, and give them the opportunity to develop personally and professionally. Although all of this takes time and forethought, the results are worth it.

In the process of developing your company give the first stage employees the opportunity to develop within your company or move to new endeavors. Be clear with potential employees about the expectations and your stage of growth. Hire people who match your level of development.

All companies have a natural ebb and flow of employees. Provide the coaching and support to existing employees to clearly choose if your company remains right for them as it develops into the next stage.