The Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Business Support Staff
Hiring the right business support staff—whether it’s an Executive Assistant, Office Manager, or HR Coordinator—can transform your organisation’s efficiency. But hiring the wrong person? That can cost you time, money, and even client relationships.
At Eden Recruitment Group, we’ve seen it all: rushed decisions, unclear job specs, missed red flags. Over the years, we’ve helped countless London employers turn hiring challenges into success stories by avoiding common pitfalls.
Here are the 10 most frequent hiring mistakes—and how to sidestep them.
1. Rushing the Recruitment Process
Speed matters, but rushing leads to poor matches. Taking the time to properly assess candidates saves far more time in the long run.
Eden Tip: Even for urgent roles, schedule at least two interview stages and include a practical assessment if relevant.
2. Writing Vague Job Descriptions
A generic job advert attracts generic candidates. Without a clear outline of duties and expectations, you risk mismatches from the start.
Eden Tip: Clearly state responsibilities, required skills, and the role’s impact on the business.
3. Ignoring Cultural Fit
Technical skills are important, but someone who clashes with your company’s culture can disrupt team harmony.
Eden Tip: Ask behavioural questions in interviews to assess how candidates approach teamwork and problem-solving.
4. Overemphasising Qualifications
Experience and transferable skills can be just as valuable as formal qualifications.
Eden Tip: Focus on a candidate’s ability to perform the role and adapt, rather than just their academic record.
5. Underestimating the Role
Business support staff often take on more responsibility than expected. Treating the role as “just admin” can mean you overlook great candidates—or lose them later.
Eden Tip: Highlight the strategic impact of the position in your recruitment process.
6. Failing to Benchmark Salaries
Offering below-market rates almost guarantees you’ll lose top candidates to competitors.
Eden Tip: Benchmark salaries regularly and be transparent about pay where possible.
7. Skipping Reference Checks
References are more than a formality—they can reveal patterns of success or potential red flags.
Eden Tip: Speak to at least two former employers before making an offer.
8. Overcomplicating the Interview Process
Dragging out the process with too many stages can cause top candidates to lose interest.
Eden Tip: Keep the process focused—three stages or fewer is ideal for most roles.
9. Not Selling Your Company
Interviews aren’t just for you to assess candidates—they’re your chance to convince them to join.
Eden Tip: Share company culture, growth opportunities, and success stories during the process.
10. Neglecting Onboarding
A poor onboarding experience can lead to early resignations.
Eden Tip: Have a structured induction plan that includes training, introductions, and clear objectives for the first 90 days.
The Eden Perspective
Avoiding these common mistakes doesn’t just improve your hiring—it strengthens your business for the long term. At Eden Recruitment Group, we guide employers through every stage of the recruitment process to ensure each hire is the right one.
Looking to hire the right way?
- Employers: Brief us on your next hire and let’s find your perfect match.
- Candidates: Register your CV to join our network of exceptional business support professionals.









