Hiring 101: A Free Webinar to Help Small Business Owners Make Their First Hire

Taking on your first employee is a major milestone, and for many small business owners, it's also one of the most daunting. From writing a job description to navigating HR compliance, the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. That's exactly why Hiring 101: Your First Hire Made Simple was created.

This free webinar from Santa Cruz Small Business Development Center takes place on June 22 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM (PDT) and is designed specifically for small business owners who are ready to grow their teams but aren't sure where to start. Santa Cruz SBDC HR expert Melissa Sanchez will be presenting.

Over the course of 90 minutes, participants will receive a step-by-step walkthrough of the entire hiring process. The session covers how to define a role and craft a clear, compelling job description that attracts the right candidates. It also dives into smart interview strategies, including which questions are legally off-limits, and practical methods for evaluating candidates so you can hire with confidence.

Critically, the webinar addresses HR compliance basics that every new employer needs to understand. Many small business owners don't realize the legal responsibilities that come with hiring, and this session gives them the foundational knowledge to stay on the right side of the rules from day one.

Whether you've been asking yourself "How do I find the right person for my team?" or "What do I need to know to stay compliant?", this interactive session is built to answer those questions in plain language, no HR background required.

If you're a small business owner ready to make your first hire, this webinar offers the clarity and confidence to take that next step.

Register now and join us June 22 at 11:30 AM PDT.