Hire and Lead Like Steve Jobs: Two Practical Steps

Steve Jobs built products with a cult following almost from day one. Most business owners and managers would love to do the same. The good news? You can. Jobs boiled his approach down to two simple steps you can use every day, whether you're hiring or managing a team that already exists.

Step One: Hire People Who Are Insanely Great

Great people are self-managed. Once they understand the goal, they work out how to reach it. They don't need you hovering over their shoulder.

So where do you find them? Connectzapp is a good place to start. Enter the details of the role you need filled. You'll receive a ranked list of suitable candidates, with the best match at the top.

Swipe through the profiles and choose the candidates you're most interested in. Build a short list, then reach out to arrange interviews. Candidates can see the match too, so they're keen to hear from you.

You Don't Need Seasoned Professionals

Your team members don't need decades of experience. They do need to be genuinely good at what they do. Look for skill, drive and persistence. Those qualities matter more than a long list of job titles.

Step Two: Share One Clear Vision

When great people focus on a common vision, something special happens. Apple proved that. The leader sets the direction, and the team brings it to life.

Getting the vision right takes three steps:

1. Decide what the vision is.
2. Explain it clearly to your team.
3. Refine it with input from the people doing the work.

Once everyone agrees on the vision, your team becomes self-policing. People hold each other to a high standard. They know what needs doing, so they get on with it.

Recruiting Managers and Team Leaders

The same two principles apply when you're hiring leaders. The only change is this: don't hunt for 'professional' managers. Look for people who excel at their craft. Then share the vision with them.

Steve Jobs believed that people who don't want to be managers often make the best ones. Keep an open mind when you assess leadership potential.

Once your team reaches about ten people, your main job becomes recruiting. The team will follow the vision and get the work done.

Putting It Into Practice

• Hire for excellence, not just a tidy résumé.
• Write your vision in one clear paragraph.
• Ask your team what they think, and refine the vision together.
• Shortlist candidates on Connectzapp to speed up your search.
• Step back once the right people are in place.

Your Practical Takeaway

Find people who are insanely great at what they do. Share a clear vision with them. Then get out of their way. It worked for Apple, and it can work for your business too.

Start your search today at https://www.connectzapp.com.