Team members building blocks hiring multicolor on blue background, business, corporate

Hiring the Right Team: Scaling or Failing, Part 2

Hey there, entrepreneurial trailblazers! Buckle up—we’re diving into one of the most exciting and challenging parts of scaling and business growth: hiring without losing your footing.

Here’s the thing:

Scaling a business isn’t just about adding more people or processes; it’s about nurturing an environment where growth is sustainable and beneficial for everyone involved.

 

Beyond the Resume

You’ve probably been here before:

You’re scrolling through countless resumes, looking at impressive lists of qualifications and experiences. But here’s the catch: that perfect CV doesn’t always translate into the perfect fit for your business.

When expanding your team, focus on:

  • Work ethic and dedication: Are they willing to roll up their sleeves and dive in?
  • Problem-solving under pressure: Use situational questions in interviews to see how they handle challenges.
  • Trusting your gut: If something feels off during the hiring process, listen to that instinct.

Sometimes, the right hire is someone referred by a trusted source—a built-in recommendation that can save you time and guesswork.

Pro Tip: Look for the “aha” moment—a candidate whose skills and personality seamlessly align with your company’s values and culture. That’s your golden ticket!

 

Culture Fit: The Silent Hero

When you’re scaling, hire slowly and focus on culture fit and work ethic.

You’re not just adding employees; you’re building a cohesive team.

Culture fit goes beyond shared interests or common hobbies. It’s about a shared vision, values, and approach to work.

In a remote world, this can feel tricky, but it’s far from impossible:

  • Host virtual team-building activities: Foster camaraderie across the screen.
  • Hold regular check-ins: Keep communication flowing.
  • Create opportunities for genuine connection: Go beyond the work talk to build trust.

So take that extra time to understand people’s aspirations, challenges, and motivations. 

Showing genuine care for your team, clients, and potential hires creates a human-centric business approach that sets you apart.

When people feel understood and valued, they’ll stick around—and thrive.

 

Investing in People 

Remember this: How things are done is often more important than what is done. 

Encouraging high-performing team members to grow is pivotal.

Provide them with different opportunities for development—be it through courses, workshops, or even new project responsibilities.

People are more likely to stay and thrive in an environment where they feel they’re continually growing and contributing.

And if a team member wants to move on? Support their growth! That goodwill creates lifelong advocates for your business.

Hold your team to high standards, but balance that with mentorship and collaboration. When people feel supported, they bring energy, creativity, and commitment that take your business to the next level.

BUT: Before you post that job listing, consider this: Are you hiring for projected growth or current revenue?

Hiring too quickly can lead to financial strain, so align hiring decisions with actual revenue targets.

A slow, steady approach to hiring is when 1) you’re not overextending resources, and 2) each hire is intentional, supporting your business goals.

 

Staying Ahead

Scaling your business is a journey—a blend of strategic decisions, creative solutions, and human connections. But here’s the crux: who you hire and how you build your team will determine whether your business soars or stalls.

By focusing on the right hires, nurturing talent, and preserving your culture, you’ll not only ensure growth but create a business that’s resilient, adaptable, and fulfilling to lead.

Remember, it’s not just about filling positions; it’s about building a team that shares your vision and drives your mission forward. Because at the end of the day, your business isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about the people who make those numbers happen.

Stay curious, stay committed, and above all, stay human.

Your success story is waiting to be written—one intentional hire at a time. Happy scaling!

Want more of this? Listen to S5E3 of the “Cash Flow with Pam Prior” podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify. 

 

 

Pam Prior

Author, Virtual CFO, and Finance Coach
“Your First CFO: The Accounting Cure for Small Business Owners” on AMAZON
“Founder to Exit: A CFO’s Blueprint for Small Business Owners” on AMAZON