How to Know When You Should Hire Your First Employee
For many Nigerians in the UK running businesses, side hustles, or startups, there comes a defining moment: Do I keep doing everything myself, or is it time to hire help?
Hiring your first employee is exciting—but it can also be risky if done too early or too late. Get it wrong, and you may struggle with cash flow. Wait too long, and you risk burnout, missed deadlines, and lost customers.
Here’s how to know when hiring makes sense, and what your options are in the UK.
First, Know When Not to Hire
Before putting out a job advert, pause and check yourself. You may want to delay hiring if:
1. You’re hiring out of panic
If you’re overwhelmed and just want “anyone” to help, slow down. Hiring in desperation often leads to poor choices and higher costs later.
2. You don’t have clear tasks
If you can’t clearly explain what the person will do day-to-day, don’t hire yet. Undefined roles lead to confusion, wasted wages, and frustration—for both of you.
3. You’ll take anyone who applies
In the UK job market, rushing the process can land you the wrong fit. Interview multiple candidates so you understand the skills, pay expectations, and cultural fit you actually need.
Signs You Are Ready to Hire
Hiring too early can drain your finances. Hiring too late can stall your growth. You may be ready if:
- You’re consistently turning down work
- You’re missing deadlines or customer messages
- You’re working long hours but revenue is stable
- You’re stuck doing low-value tasks instead of growing the business
At this stage, help isn’t a luxury—it’s a growth tool.
Start Small: Consider Alternatives to Full-Time Staff
Before hiring a full-time employee in the UK (which comes with PAYE, National Insurance, pensions, and legal obligations), consider these options:
✅ Freelancers
Best for short-term or specific tasks like:
- Social media
- Graphic design
- Website updates
- Content writing
Freelancers are usually self-employed and handle their own tax.
✅ Contractors
Ideal for specialised or longer projects such as:
- IT setup
- Accounting
- Marketing campaigns
- Business consulting
Contracts can run for weeks or months and are easier to end than employment.
✅ Trial Before You Commit
Many Nigerian business owners in the UK successfully test a role with a contractor before converting them into a permanent employee.
When It Makes Sense to Hire an Employee
Hiring an employee may be the right move if:
- The work is ongoing and predictable
- You interact regularly with customers
- You need someone available at set hours
- The role directly makes or saves money
In simple terms, your first employee should either:
- Generate income
- Free you up to generate more income
What Skills Should Your First Hire Have?
Be specific. Don’t hire “help.” Hire solutions.
Instead of:
“I need an admin person”
Try:
“I need someone to handle emails, invoices, customer bookings, and basic social media, 20 hours per week.”
Clarity saves money and stress.
Hiring While Running a Side Hustle
Many Nigerians in the UK start businesses while still employed. If that’s you:
- Start with freelancers or part-time help
- Avoid fixed costs until income is consistent
- Keep HMRC rules in mind if hiring staff
Should You Hire Remotely or Globally?
Remote work opens up affordable talent beyond the UK. Benefits include:
- Lower wage expectations
- Wider talent pool
- Flexible time zones
- 24/7 customer support potential
However, be mindful of:
- Communication challenges
- Time differences
- Legal and payroll requirements
For UK-based businesses, using an Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify international hiring.
Can Students Help Your Business Grow?
UK university students can be a smart option:
- Part-time or seasonal availability
- Lower cost
- Tech-savvy and eager to learn
- Potential long-term hires
Internships can act as low-risk trial periods.
Where to Advertise Jobs in the UK
Popular platforms Nigerian founders in the UK use include:
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- Workable
- Industry-specific Facebook and WhatsApp groups
Always be clear about:
- Pay
- Hours
- Remote or on-site work
- Required skills
Final Word: Hire With Purpose, Not Pressure
Hiring your first employee is a milestone—but it should be strategic, not emotional.
Before you hire, ask:
- What problem will this person solve?
- Can I afford them for at least 6–12 months?
- Is there a cheaper or flexible alternative?
When you hire with clarity, your business doesn’t just grow—it becomes sustainable.
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