Business is picking up here in Phoenix. I've got more leads than I can handle and thinking about bringing on help. What background should I look for in a first hire? Someone with utility experience or can I train fresh talent?
Ready to hire my first employee - what should I look for?
I started with someone from the utility side - had experience with tariff structures at LG&E. Made training much easier since they understood rate schedules already.
Opposite approach worked for me. Hired someone with accounting background who was detail-oriented. Took longer to train on utility basics but they caught billing errors I missed.
Either works but get someone who can handle spreadsheets and isn't intimidated by numbers. I've had good luck with retired utility folks who want part-time work.
Don't forget about non-compete clauses if hiring from utilities. Had to wait 6 months for my best candidate because of Westar restrictions.
Most important thing is work ethic. You can teach the technical stuff but you can't teach someone to care about accuracy. Interview carefully.