Signs it's time to hire IT staff

Whilst no organisation wants to be overstaffed, particularly in challenging economic times, it is important that managers are also aware of the detrimental effect having too lean a team can have on existing staff and productivity levels. So, what are the telltale signs that can help an employer determine when it really is time to hire?

• Overtime is no longer the exception: If working overtime is the only way your team can avoid falling behind, then this is a clear indication that you need to add staff. Whilst some overtime can be expected, take notice if it becomes a regular occurrence. Asking your team members to continually burn the midnight oil can deplete employee morale.
• Your best employees are missing deadlines: It is a major red flag when top performers, who tend to provide consistently excellent job performance, start turning in assignments late or regularly ask for extensions with projects.
• 'Non-urgent’ projects frequently get put on the backburner: When critical deadlines loom, lower priority tasks often get deferred. If due dates are constantly getting revised or even scrapped entirely, your organisation is likely to be short-staffed.
• Managers are stepping in regularly: If the absence of just one staff member due to illness or other work commitments forces you to take on routine tasks because no one else is available, this is another warning sign that it is time to hire.
• Increase in complaints: A growing number of complaints from other departments, clients and vendors about service can often signify that your team are struggling with workloads and are not dedicating enough time to specific projects.
• Turning away business: Is your organisation turning away new business or unable to act on strategic initiatives that could create a competitive advantage because you do not have the bandwidth to handle the additional work? Your company’s future success may be at risk so it’s time to think seriously about adding headcount.