Competition isn’t just reserved for sports, sometimes in the business world; you have to be willing to go that extra mile to solidify your company as one to be reckoned with.

As a small business owner one of the toughest challenges is hiring the right executives and CEO whose is going to beneficial to the company and actually make things happen.

Of course you only want the best of the best. Sometimes that best may be someone who is working for your competition. These industry professionals have the experience, the skills and the valuable contacts that can possibly take your company to a higher level.

Risks of Taking The Competition’s Talent

How can you steal them from their current employer while being tactful?

Before you formulate any kidnapping plans it’s important for you to know the associated risks. The specific employer could be under some type of contract so you will have to work around that.

You could also easily become known as an employee poacher or even worse; that you like to “play dirty”.

Stay Subtle

First, you should start off subtle.

Being that you are in the same industry as the rival company, more than likely you’ll have some of the same or similar contacts. You can let these contacts know that you are currently interesting in hiring an experienced employee. Casually mention the perks you are willing to offer for the “right” person.

When your contacts hear that you are hiring they may pass that along the grapevine and the information may find itself to the right person.

Get Professional

Another great option is to acquire the services of a professional executive search firm.

An executive search firm specializes in recruiting candidates that have experience in working in highly specialized positions within a company.

You can let the search firm know that you are interested in a particular person. They will approach the person from the rival company and discuss with them a possible job opportunity.

Also, remember that you have to have something great you can offer this possible new employee to motivate them to want to work with your small business. This could be a pay raise or a high position of authority.

Hiring a search firm prevents you from immediately having to reveal your identity. This protects vital relationships with business partners because the search firm is the one doing the recruiting.

Check and Recheck

Also you may want to have a background check completed on that specific employee. You want to make sure that they really are worth the risk. Although, most corporate employees don’t have a criminal history, you should still check for one.

If this skilled worker, agrees to take a meeting or interview with your company you should be very direct and upfront with them. Let them know why you feel they will be a great asset to your company and also how your business can help them grow.

Inquire about any non-disclosure or contract agreements they have with their current employer.

Finally, consult with your lawyer to get a good understanding of your options.

Photo credit: techcrunch.com

About the Author: Tina Samuels writes on how to get to the top of Google, social media, marketing, and small business topics.