Hiring your first employee changes the rhythm of the business. It is not only a workload decision, but also a cash flow, margin and management decision.
Validate recurring demand
A busy month is not always enough. Look for stable, repeated and profitable demand over several months.
If the work depends on one uncertain contract, a contractor may be safer than a permanent hire.
Calculate the full cost
Salary is only part of the cost. Add employer charges, insurance, software, equipment, training and supervision time.