An effective staffing strategy is a vital aspect of your business and its competitive edge. Staffing strategies are distinct from recruitment strategies; while recruiting is one step in the employment process, staffing is ongoing. It’s concerned with how you work with and retain a satisfied and competent group of employees who can accomplish needed tasks at the right time. Here are several ways to attract and retain the best people.

1. Focus on Objectives and Goals

Take a look at your company’s business plan, and take note of the objectives and goals. Your employees drive the attainment of these objectives and goals, so your staffing strategy should be aligned with goals, objectives, and benchmarks in the business plan.

2. Review Your Workforce

The next step is to review your actual workforce. This will include a headcount, skills (and gaps), and high-potential people who might be appropriate for future leadership roles. To get an accurate, actionable view, try to consolidate all people data into one system or spreadsheet.

3. Identify Needs

Needs need to be aligned with roles. First, evaluate the experience, resources, and skills needed to achieve your goals. What roles do you need in order to make this happen? In order to plan effectively, take into account the timeline of actions required to fulfill each role.

4. Take a Look at Patterns

Throughout any business, there’s typically a natural pattern of staffing ebb and flow. It’s helpful to be aware of patterns in order to stay one step ahead and make sure there are as few surprises as possible. Always stay cognizant of resignation/leave, promotion, and retirement dates so you can be proactive.

5. Plan for the Future

Plan for the future with your leadership team, shareholders, and/or owners. A long-term staffing strategy for the next five to ten years is standard. Review your plan regularly as well; business needs can change rapidly.

6. Cultivate a Great Culture

Create an environment where people love to work in order to attract, retain, and cultivate the best employees possible. There’s much you can learn from others; reach out to other business peers, and search online for approaches that might work for your company. Workshops and social media can provide great advice and ideas, too.

In order to run a successful business, a well thought-out staffing strategy is crucial. Take note of these steps in order to develop an effective plan.