Four keys to hiring great support
Hiring great support isn’t about filling a role—it’s about finding someone who amplifies your impact.
To do that, look for four essential qualities: Capability, Capacity, Influence, and Desire.
Capability is the foundation. You need someone who can do the job well, with the skills and expertise to get things done efficiently. But don’t confuse capability with competence, you want someone who not only performs tasks but solves problems effectively.
Capacity goes beyond skills—it’s about bandwidth. Can they handle the workload without burning out? Great support means having the room to think, process, and grow. Without capacity, even the most talented person will fall short.
Influence is crucial. Support isn’t just about being a follower, it’s about stepping up when needed, offering insight, and helping others move forward. A great support person influences the team positively, without overshadowing others.
Desire is what drives everything. The best support doesn’t come from obligation—it comes from passion. Look for people who are excited about what they do, who want to see your success as much as their own. If the person you are considering isn’t a ‘hell yes’ to this criteria, they are a ‘hell no’.
While there’s no such thing as a perfect hire, satisfying these criteria will get you pretty close.