Hiring your first employee? Here’s your simple HR Checklist
Hiring your first employee is an exciting step, but there are a few legal and practical things you must do before they start. Here’s the simple checklist small businesses rely on.
1. Confirm the job details
Before you recruit, be clear on:
- Job title
- Hours
- Pay
- Responsibilities
- Location or hybrid terms
This clarity helps attract the right candidate and reduces future misunderstandings.
2. Do your right-to-work checks
This is a legal requirement for all employers.
Make sure you copy and securely store the documents.
3. Issue an offer letter
Short, simple, professional, this confirms key details like:
- Salary
- Hours
- Start date
- Conditions of offer
4. Prepare the employment contract
You must issue this on or before day one of employment.
A compliant contract protects both you and your new hire, setting clear expectations from the start.
5. Share your employee handbook
Give your new employee the essential policies, such as:
- Sickness
- Holidays
- Conduct
- Data protection
- Grievance and disciplinary
Even small businesses need these.
6. Set up payroll
Register the employee with HMRC and organise payroll software or support.
7. Create a new starter checklist
This helps you remember:
- Emergency contact details
- Equipment access
- System logins
- Induction meeting
- Policy sign-offs
You’ll find one included in HR Foundations.
Ready to hire with confidence?
Our HR Foundations package includes all the templates and documents you need, plus a consultation to guide you.
