FT Start-Up Stories Episode 3 - Hiring
Nov 9, 2015
Entrepreneur Martin Spiller, founder of the design studio Hibbert Harwood, shares his unique hiring experiences. He emphasizes that recruitment agencies aren't always necessary, revealing how a casual conversation with a barista led him to a talented designer. The discussion dives into unconventional recruitment strategies, highlighting the benefits of networking in everyday settings, particularly within the service industry and local universities. Spiller also stresses the importance of cultural fit and diversity in building a successful team.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Build University Links
- Use direct links with local colleges and universities to recruit graduates rather than expensive agencies.
- Run a rolling referral internship programme to maintain constant access to new talent.
Always Be Recruiting
- Always be recruiting and instruct your team to look out for potential hires in everyday contacts.
- Talent often appears in unexpected places like friends' LinkedIn contacts or local cafés.
Hiring Over Coffee
- Martin Spiller struck up a conversation with a barista who turned out to be a talented graphic designer.
- He reviewed the portfolio, hired him, and the designer stayed ~18 months before moving to a bigger agency.
