Intentional Hiring - Building your dream team

Finding the perfect team members is like choosing creative collaborators to help write your business story. Are you rushing the process or taking time to find people who truly align with your vision?In this deeply personal episode, I pull back the curtain on my transformative approach to hiring for the Daring Press. After years of sometimes selecting the wrong people, I embarked on a thoroughly intentional two-month journey to find team members who would bring the right energy to our creative container.The process began with a comprehensive application form featuring over 20 questions designed to reveal not just professional capabilities, but personal values and working styles. With 80+ applications to review across various roles. Editors, designers, formatters, and assistants, I created a methodical evaluation system against our core values of expression, integrity, collaboration, devotion, and creativity.Shortlisted candidates received custom challenges that revealed how they would actually interact with clients. For editors, I examined not just technical ability but whether their feedback language honored authors' voices. For designers, I assessed how their creative vision aligned with client needs. These practical tasks gave invaluable insight into how candidates would embody our philosophy that "your story matters" in every client interaction.This journey taught me profound lessons about business growth and authentic leadership. As I've moved away from hustle culture toward a more intentional approach, I've paradoxically seen greater success. By releasing the pressure to follow prescribed strategies and rigid timelines, I've created space for organic growth and meaningful connection, both within my team and with the authors we serve.If you're currently hiring, I encourage you to slow down, take your time, and choose people who truly resonate with your vision. Technical skills are teachable, but alignment of values and energy is priceless. Reach out via DM at the daring press on Instagram with any questions about intentional hiring, I'd love to continue the conversation!Where stories come alive. Publishing - www.thedaringpress.com Bookshop - www.thedaringbookshop.com Writing -  https://www.instagram.com/jennallittle/ https://www.instagram.com/jennadaringauthor/