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What to Do Between Hires: Building Culture and Capacity While You Wait

Six Smart Moves to Make Between Hires

At Building for Mission, we work with organizations across sectors that want to make more aligned and strateg hiring decisions. And one thing we’ve learned? The work you do between hires is just as important as the work you do during a search.

Here are six ways to make the most of that in-between time:

Here are 6 things you can do between hires to make your next hire more aligned, strategic, and successful:

  1. Map your gaps.

Create an accountability chart to understand where your current team has strengths — and where you’ll need support as you scale.It’s different from an org chart: it focuses on what needs to get done and who owns what, not just who reports to whom. Use this as a lens to identify areas where you’re overextended, skills you’re missing, or potential areas for role evolution.

  1. Track your signals.

Use financial and opportunity indicators to clarify when it’s the right time to fill your next role — not just when you’re underwater.

  1. Build for growth.

Design roles and structures that allow for internal promotion. Development on the job is often more sustainable than hiring externally.

  1. Share the load.

For business-critical work, consider sharing responsibilities across the team before locking in a hire. It can buy you time and build capacity.

  1. Spot great fits early.

Always be on the lookout for people who align with your culture and values. Have a 1:1 conversation — even if you’re not hiring yet.

  1. Let your data guide you.

Track hiring timelines, turnover patterns, and team capacity over time. Data gives you a clearer view of what’s working — and what’s next.
The strongest hiring strategies don’t start with a job posting — they start with thoughtful design, long before a role opens