Best hiring practices, tips, and tricks!!

[Emily Rymer]

I am a short-term rental manager and I have been doing everything myself!! Well, except the cleaning. When we listed our first STR, I was cleaning it myself, but that got old QUICKLY! Luckily, I found the most amazing cleaner to sub-contract, but as my business grows rapidly, she won't be able to cover more than two properties in one day between check-out and check-in times. If only I could clone her!! Since that is not an option at this time, I am wondering how to hire my first W-2 employee!

I feel that hiring my own employee will better fit my business needs rather than hiring another sub contractor since I will be able to assign more tasks, such as picking up cleaning supplies and paper products for restocking, and manage their schedule to better fit my needs since the time constraints are a little narrower for STRs.  Also, I am planning to start or sub-contract a linen service since the laundry is what takes the longest during each flip. 

All this being said, I have never hired an employee before!  I am curious how you other experienced business owners and investors out there have mastered this.  Do you a personality test such as DISC?  Do you have people apply online and create a video introducing themselves and talking about themselves a little before taking the time to meet face to face?  Do you have them provide references?  Do you actually contact said references?  

If you don't mind sharing your successful hiring system with me, I would greatly appreciate it!!

Also, for fun, if you have any inspiring or horrifying stories, please share! 

Looking forward to hearing from you all and thank you so much in advance!!