Over the next decade, it's expected that a labour shortage will challenge BC's small business owners looking to hire.

So, it's important to practice polishing writing that great job posting now.

Business owners in our community understand the importance of sales. We can tell customers about the best sari, the best car, the best tile and flooring, the best educational and health choices for our customers.

But what we also have to understand is the importance of selling the business as the BEST place for a skilled, smart loyal employee to work.

We know we want to outline what skills and attributes we want the successful candidate to bring to the job. Are we thinking enough, though, about the parts of the job they might enjoy?

If you're having trouble finding the right person for your business, it may come down to how much time and effort you're putting into writing, posting and advertising a good job description.

Here now, are some handy-dandy steps to doing it right:

1 - what is YOUR competitive edge?

What's so special about your business, industry, location or any other segment in which you compete? Is it great colleagues? A location close to transit? Flexible working hours? Will you pay for certification or training? Are you offering the opportunity to work on innovative projects or with cutting edge technology? Whatever makes you stand out - make sure you say so!

2 - Where and how are you targeting your ad?

It's sooo important to advertise your help wanted ad further than the classified section of the South Asian Post (though the publishers will tell you this is an excellent place to start).

Have you thought about government job boards? Online classified websites? These are the basics - but you should also make sure your ad is in front of professional organizations. Where's the best place to pluck a fresh apple? From the tree of course so be sure to send your ad to local colleges and universities - especially if you're looking to fill a skilled but entry level position.

3 - Be social!

Social media is a must. Don't have a Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter account? Get one. Don't know how? Don't have time? Get the kids to do it for you. More people than ever, around the world, are clicking, clicking, clicking onto social media. Don't get left behind.

4 - Don't forget word of mouth!

At the boy's hockey practice? Tell the other parents you're hiring. At the girl's basketball game? Tell the coach, tell the ref, tell the opposing team. At the temple? Tell the Giani. At tea? Tell Bibiji, we all know she's a gossip anyway. She'll tell everyone!

Sometimes, the best people who come forward are those who have been connected to you by a friend or acquaintance. And when you finally get someone in front of you, remember to sell sell sell the business just the way you would your product or service.

Good luck! Happy recruiting!