Are you an employer who is thinking about hiring someone?

Weighing up the pros and cons of taking on new staff can be a bit of a challenge, but with Jobs Growth Wales, help is there every step of the way; from finding the right applicant, to funding up to 50% of their wages for the first six months.

Here is how taking on someone new could benefit you:

1. They get stuck in

New staff are always keen to impress; and will often go the extra mile to prove that you have picked the right person for the job.

2. They take the pressure off

Extra employees are there to help you. They free you up to work down that never-ending “to-do” list. They increase productivity and efficiency, giving you time to think about what is next for your business.

3. They see things differently

A fresh pair of eyes can help you to see things completely differently and adopt a new approach. New and innovative ideas can help take your business to the next level and having someone else to bounce ideas off can help with efficiency and service.

4. They help expand your business

The thought of expansion could seem daunting, but the advantages usually far outweigh the disadvantages. As well as all of the above, new employees bring a sense of camaraderie to the workplace and there is one more pair of hands for the tea round.

5. Keep your technical skills up-to-date

A new person not only brings fresh ideas but can also help you and your team up their skills.

That is especially the case with hiring a younger team member, who often has their finger on the pulse with new social media networks, apps and software to not only improve the product and service but share that knowledge in the workplace.

6. Reduce suppliers and or outsourcing

Is your desk full of invoices from the accountant, IT support and web designer? Hiring another member of staff with an array of talents can reduce external costs, making it easier to brief external suppliers and keeping the paper work down to a minimum.

7. Succession planning

It is important to consider future plans for the company in years to come when you would like to retire or take a back seat.

Another member of staff will enable you to develop potential future leaders or senior managers, to fill business-critical positions, either in the short or the long-term.

Jobs Growth Wales allows employers to offer a part-funded six-month job opportunity to young people and create new roles within their organisation.

The programme is part-funded by the European Social Fund. Recruits are paid a wage and benefit from gaining vital work experience and developing on-the-job skills, while also supporting Welsh businesses to grow.

Employers can find out more and express their interest by visiting www.business.wales.gov.uk/skillsgateway.