The hidden cost of bad hires – and how to avoid them

Hiring the wrong employee can be far more expensive than many Ugandan employers realise. 

The true cost of a bad hire goes well beyond salaries and benefits, quietly draining productivity, morale and business growth.

Poor hiring decisions often lead to lost time and reduced efficiency, as managers and teams spend months correcting mistakes or compensating for underperformance. 

In small and medium-sized enterprises, which make up a large share of Uganda’s economy, one weak hire can significantly disrupt operations and customer satisfaction.

There is also a financial burden. Recruitment costs, onboarding, training and eventual replacement can add up to millions of shillings, especially when roles require specialised skills. 

Experts from BrighterMonday Uganda warn that bad hires can also increase staff turnover, as high-performing employees become frustrated and leave, further compounding costs.

To avoid these pitfalls, BrighterMonday Uganda advises employers to invest more effort before making hiring decisions. 

This includes writing clear job descriptions, assessing both technical skills and cultural fit, and using structured interviews rather than gut feeling. The experts also recommend skills testing and reference checks, which are often skipped due to time pressure.

In today’s competitive job market, BrighterMonday Uganda emphasises that smart hiring is not just an HR function but a strategic business decision. Getting it right saves money, protects team morale and sets organisations on a path to sustainable growth.

For more such insights and if you are looking to enhance your soft skills for career success,  join this BrighterMonday course, which is absolutely free.