# Hiring Checklist for Early-Stage Companies

**Purpose:** Practical hiring workflow checklist.

**Related References:**
- See `role-definitions.md` for role responsibility boundaries
- See `first-hire-framework.md` for readiness assessment

**Integration:** Used by `building-team` skill for all hiring topics.

---

## Pre-Hiring Preparation

| Task | Description |
|------|-------------|
| [ ] Define role | Responsibilities and success metrics |
| [ ] Establish budget | Salary + equity + overhead |
| [ ] Create profile | Must-have vs. nice-to-have skills |
| [ ] Prepare questions | Interview questions aligned to role |
| [ ] Define structure | Salary, equity, benefits |

## Sourcing Candidates

| Channel | Notes |
|---------|-------|
| [ ] Job boards | Industry-specific platforms |
| [ ] Personal network | High-quality referrals |
| [ ] Events/meetups | Direct engagement |
| [ ] Recruiters | Specialized roles only |
| [ ] Employer brand | Long-term pipeline |

## Evaluation Process

| Step | Duration | Decision Point |
|------|----------|----------------|
| [ ] Resume screen | 5 min per candidate | Move to phone screen? |
| [ ] Phone screen | 15-30 min | Move to interview? |
| [ ] Skills assessment | 1-2 hours | Move to onsite? |
| [ ] Interview | 1 hour | Move to references? |
| [ ] Reference checks | 2-3 calls | Move to offer? |
| [ ] Trial project | Optional (paid) | Final decision |

## Offer and Onboarding

| Phase | Key Actions |
|-------|-------------|
| Offer | Verbal discussion → Written letter → Negotiation |
| Pre-boarding | Background check → Paperwork → Equipment setup |
| First 90 days | 30/60/90-day check-ins → Success plan review |
