According to Nell Merlino (when she spoke at Super Mom), you will get 2 1/2 times back from what you pay out to each staff member. Looking at things that way, why don’t we just go out and hire people asap? As entrepreneurs, our businesses are our babies. You wouldn’t trust just anyone with your baby right? So it makes sense for us to take time to find the right people. But like your baby, you will eventually need to let go a bit so it can grow.

How can you tell if it is the right time to bring on staff? Signs might include:

  • Spending entire days and weeks managing your projects and work
  • Losing paperwork
  • Losing track of finances
  • Missed or delayed payments
  • Missed appointments
  • Inconsistency with customer service
  • Poor client/ customer follow-up
  • Decreased sales
  • Unorganized workspace
  • Personal life affected
  • No time for hobbies or recreational activities

If any of the above symptoms describe your situation, then you probably need some help. Ever heard the phrase, “The whole is greater than the sum of all of its’ parts”? Yep, me too! That’s why my agency is made up of more than just me. I have other professionals who specialize in different areas, and can provide you with the dedicated time and support for your individual needs.

In addition to them, I am also implementing an internship program that will have the dual benefit of training others I might hire someday and some administrative support to free up my schedule to focus on profit generating activities. I supervised interns for over a year as the Executive Director of a nonprofit, so this not anything new to me. Rest assured that any interns you might deal with at my agency will have personal training by me, so you know you will be getting the best.

As for bringing on help, I can help you create a brand identity training program for your new hires to make sure things are carried out the way you would like.

P.S. There are tons of legal matters to consider when hiring employees and subcontractors. While I can help guide you through some of this, I am not a lawyer. You might want to consult with the IRS & your state to make sure you are abiding by the law.

As always, comments are appreciated. Tell me, do you need to bring on help?