How to Hire Handymans: A Practical Guide for Small Business Owners

Let’s face it—finding and keeping a reliable handyman can feel like searching for a unicorn, especially if you’re running a busy restaurant, franchise, or local retail shop. Whether you need to hire handymans for routine maintenance or urgent repairs, the process can get overwhelming fast. But, honestly, with the right approach and a little help from technology, it doesn’t have to be a headache. Let’s walk through what really works, what to avoid, and how to build a maintenance team you can count on—without losing your mind (or your budget).

Why Hiring the Right Handyman Matters (More Than You Think)

First off, why is it so critical to hire handymans who are not just skilled, but also dependable and a good fit for your business? Well, the numbers don’t lie: employee turnover in the service industry can cost thousands per year, and the wrong hire can mean more downtime, unhappy customers, and even compliance risks. Plus, a good handyman doesn’t just fix things—they keep your operation running smoothly, which means fewer disruptions and better reviews.

And here’s the kicker: according to industry research, high turnover isn’t just a restaurant problem. Any business that relies on hourly or contract workers is at risk. That’s why investing in smart handyman recruitment pays off in the long run.

Handyman or General Maintenance Worker?

Sometimes, the job title is less important than the skills. You might be looking to hire general maintenance workers or even recruit repair specialists with specific certifications. The trick is to be clear in your job posting and know exactly what you need—don’t just copy-paste a generic description from the internet. For more on writing standout job posts, check out these examples.

Where to Find and Recruit Top Handyman Talent

Start With the Right Job Boards and Platforms

Sure, word of mouth is powerful, but in 2024, you can’t ignore digital tools. Posting on specialized job boards or using a platform like Workstream can help you recruit repair specialists quickly and efficiently. For even more reach, consider platforms like Indeed or other free job posting sites that cater to hourly workers.

• Digital recruiting strategies can help you expand your candidate pool.
• Don’t forget about creative job posting tips that make your ad stand out.
• Use benefits and perks to attract more applicants.

Screening and Interviewing: More Than Just Skills

It’s tempting to focus only on technical ability, but attitude and reliability matter just as much. Ask questions that reveal how candidates handle pressure, communicate, and prioritize safety. For inspiration, check out these cultural fit interview questions or learn about motivational interviewing techniques.

And if you’re short on time (who isn’t?), automated screening tools like those in Workstream’s hiring suite can help you filter candidates fast, saving hours every week.

Handyman Recruitment Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

Don’t Skip Background Checks and References

It’s easy to get excited about a candidate who seems perfect on paper, but skipping background checks or reference calls can come back to bite you. Make sure to verify credentials and ask about past work. This is especially important if your handyman will have access to sensitive areas or expensive equipment.

Compliance Isn’t Optional

Here’s the thing: hiring handymans isn’t just about finding someone who can swing a hammer. You’ve got to stay on top of recordkeeping, wage laws, and insurance requirements. Messing this up could cost you thousands in fines or lawsuits. If you’re not sure where to start, platforms like Workstream can automate compliance and make sure you’re covered—saving you up to $25K a year, if you ask me.

Onboarding: The Secret Sauce

Ever hired someone great, only to lose them a month later? It might be your onboarding process. A smooth, digital onboarding experience—think mobile forms, automated reminders, and clear expectations—can boost retention and get your new hire productive faster. See these onboarding templates for ideas.

Building a Lasting Relationship: Retention and Engagement

Keep Your Handyman Happy (and Productive)

Once you hire handymans, the real work begins. Retention is a huge challenge in the hourly space—just ask anyone who’s lost a good repair specialist right before a big rush. According to DoorDash’s research, offering benefits and a clear path for growth can make all the difference.

• Offer flexible schedules using digital tools like 24-hour schedule templates.
• Keep communication open—text reminders and announcements help reduce no-shows (Workstream can automate this, by the way).
• Recognize great work—sometimes a simple thank you or a small bonus goes a long way. For more, see this career advice.

Measure What Matters

Don’t just hire and hope for the best. Track turnover, time-to-hire, and the cost of repairs. For a deeper dive into the real cost of employee turnover, check out this article and this resource.

Conclusion: The Smarter Way to Hire Handymans

Hiring the right handyman—or building a team of general maintenance workers—isn’t just about plugging a hole in your staffing. It’s about protecting your business, saving money, and keeping things running without a hitch. With the right tools, a little patience, and a focus on people (not just paperwork), you can hire handymans who stick around, do great work, and help your business grow.

If you’re ready to make the process easier and more effective, Workstream’s platform is built for businesses like yours. From automated hiring to digital onboarding, scheduling, and payroll, it’s everything you need to take the stress out of handyman recruitment—so you can get back to what you do best.

Related Resources

• Learn more about hiring handymans and maintenance workers with Workstream
• Explore Workstream’s all-in-one HR platform
• Discover onboarding templates for a smoother start
• Find out how hiring automation can save you time and money
• Contact Workstream for more information