How to Give Your Employees a Raise Without Increasing Your Payroll Costs

Mid-Year Business Check In

By Corey Harlock • July 30, 2025

If you’re like most small business owners, the first half of the year probably felt like a blur. You started January with big goals and a fresh sense of optimism. Now it’s July, and maybe you’re feeling a little tired, a little uncertain, or—if you’re lucky—a little closer to the company you actually want to run. A mid-year check-in isn’t just a box to tick. It’s a chance to hit pause, get honest about where you are, and decide what needs to change so you can finish strong. I’ve helped dozens of owners work through this exact process, and if there’s one thing I know, it’s this: Whatever is happening in your business right now is the direct result of your structure, your people, and your willingness to adapt. Not the market. Not the economy. Not your competitors. Let’s get practical. Here’s how you can make this mid-year check-in count—whether you’re on track for a record year or barely keeping your head above water. Step 1: Take a Hard Look at the Numbers (But Read Between the Lines) Start with the basics: Revenue, profit, cash flow. Are you ahead, behind, or right where you expected? But don’t stop there. Numbers tell a story, but you have to read between the lines: Is your revenue up, but your margins down? Is cash flow tight even though sales are strong? Are you hitting your goals, but your team looks exhausted? If you’re spending more time putting out fires than planning for growth, that’s a sign the underlying structure isn’t working. Don’t ignore it. The numbers are just a symptom. Owner Reality Check: Are you tracking what actually matters, or just what’s easy to measure? Sometimes a quick conversation with your accountant (or a trusted advisor) will surface issues you’re too close to see. Step 2: Check Your Team’s Pulse You can’t scale a business if you’re the only one who cares about the outcome. At mid-year, ask yourself: Can your team execute without you in the room? Do your leaders own their results, or do they default back to you for every decision? Are your best people challenged and growing, or bored and looking? If you’re still the “glue” holding everything together, it’s time to get serious about delegation and accountability. I see this all the time: Owners hire smart people, but never give them the clarity or authority to really lead. The result? Bottlenecks, missed opportunities, and a business that can’t grow beyond what you personally can manage. Quick Test: Take a real vacation. If your phone blows up the whole time, you don’t have a business—you have a job with overhead. Step 3: Revisit (or Finally Write Down) Your Priorities The mid-year mark is a perfect time to re-center on what actually matters. Most businesses are running on too many priorities, too many projects, and too little focus. What are the three things your company absolutely must achieve by year-end? Does every person on your leadership team know what those are—and how their job connects to them? Are you “busy,” or are you moving the needle on what drives profit and growth? In my experience, the best companies I’ve worked with are the ones that say “no” more than they say “yes.” They have the discipline to focus, even when new ideas (or new fires) pop up every week. Owner Exercise: Write your top three priorities for the second half of the year on a whiteboard. Now ask your leadership team (separately) to do the same. If your answers don’t match, you have a messaging problem—fix it before you do anything else. Step 4: Audit Your Systems—Are They Supporting You, or Slowing You Down? It’s easy to blame “people problems” when things aren’t working, but more often it’s a systems problem. Are your processes clear, documented, and repeatable? Or is everyone making it up as they go, relying on tribal knowledge and last-minute heroics? Are you re-inventing the wheel every time you hire, onboard, or launch a new project? Is your tech stack (software, tools, etc.) helping your team work smarter, or just adding complexity? Do you have real visibility into what’s happening day-to-day—or are you constantly surprised? If you’re still running the business out of your head (or your inbox), you’re capping your growth. Now’s the time to identify the biggest friction points and start building scalable systems. Pro Tip: Don’t aim for perfection. Done is better than perfect. Document one process a week for the rest of the year. By December, you’ll be amazed at the difference. Step 5: Check In With Yourself—Are You Leading, or Managing? This is the hardest part—and the most important. At KeyHire, we work with a lot of owners who are stuck in “doer” mode. They’re experts at solving problems, but struggle to let go. If that’s you, ask: Are you spending your time building the business, or just running it? Do you have the right people in the right seats so you can focus on strategy, relationships, and growth? Are you holding onto tasks you should have delegated months ago? Leadership means trusting your team, defining the “what” and the “why,” and letting them own the “how.” If your calendar is filled with tasks that don’t require your unique skills, you’re not leading—you’re just working. Try This: Block off one hour a week for “thinking time.” Use it to step back, look at the big picture, and ask yourself what the business needs from you next—not just what’s urgent. Step 6: Identify the Gaps (and Make a Plan to Fill Them) A real check-in isn’t just about reflection—it’s about action. Now that you’ve looked at your numbers, your team, your systems, and yourself, be brutally honest: Where are the biggest bottlenecks? What’s holding you back from hitting your year-end goals? Is it a talent gap, a process gap, or a mindset gap? Once you’ve identified the root cause, make a plan—don’t just hope things will “sort themselves out.” Maybe you need to make a key hire. Maybe you need to invest in training, upgrade your tech, or finally let go of underperformers. Owner’s Challenge: Pick one gap to close in the next 30 days. Get specific, assign accountability, and track progress. Small wins add up. Step 7: Celebrate What’s Working It’s easy to get bogged down in what’s broken, but don’t forget to recognize progress. Celebrate your team’s wins, however small. Positive momentum is contagious, and it keeps people motivated through the tough stretches. What did you accomplish in the first half of the year that you’re proud of? Who on your team stepped up? What new capability did your company gain? If you’re not taking time to celebrate, you’ll burn out—and so will your people. Step 8: Recommit to Growth (Even if It’s Uncomfortable) Here’s the truth: Growing a business means constantly getting uncomfortable. What got you here won’t get you there. The systems, people, and habits that worked for your $1M business probably won’t work at $5M or $10M. If you want different results in the second half of the year, you have to do something different. Let go of tasks that aren’t the highest and best use of your time. Be willing to invest in people and processes, even if it feels risky. Stay open to feedback, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The most successful owners I know are the ones who are always learning, always adapting, and never satisfied with the status quo. Final Thought: You Don’t Have to Do It Alone If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just uncertain about your next move, you’re not alone. Every business owner hits plateaus, and every company has blind spots. The difference between those who break through and those who stall out? Willingness to face the facts, invite outside perspective, and make hard changes. At KeyHire, we help business owners like you get clear on their challenges, build the right teams, and put scalable systems in place so you can get back to working on the business—not just in it. If you’re ready for a real conversation about where you are and where you want to go, let’s talk. 👉 Listen & subscribe: Podcast: https://www.keyhire.solutions/the-keyhire-podcast--new YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@keyhiresolutions Connect with us: https://www.keyhire.solutions

Scaling a Small Business in Today's Tight Labor Market: Strategic Solutions for Growth

By Corey Harlock • July 30, 2025

The labor market remains one of the biggest challenges facing small businesses today. While unemployment hovers around 4.2%, this seemingly favorable statistic masks a deeper reality: there are more job openings than unemployed people, creating intense competition for talent. For business owners looking to grow, this presents a fundamental question: how do you scale when qualified candidates are scarce and your best employees are constantly being recruited by competitors? This challenge isn't temporary. According to economist Dr. Bill Conerly of Conerly Consulting , "The current decade from 2020 to 2030 has the lowest growth of the working age population since the Civil War." This demographic reality means that hiring challenges will persist, making it essential for small business owners to develop comprehensive strategies that go beyond traditional recruitment methods. Understanding the New Reality of Small Business Management The shift from labor abundance to scarcity represents a fundamental change in how businesses must operate. For decades, from the 1970s through the early 2000s, employers enjoyed what Dr. Conerly describes as "four decades of really strong growth of the working age population." During this period, managers could adopt authoritarian approaches because job seekers had limited options. The old paradigm included long lines of job applicants for every opening, managers who could make unreasonable demands without consequence, and a "tell me why I should hire you" mentality that put all pressure on candidates. Companies maintained a high tolerance for poor management because employees had few alternatives and limited mobility between positions. Today's reality demands a completely different approach that recognizes the power shift in the employment relationship. Multiple job opportunities now exist for every qualified candidate, meaning top performers receive regular recruitment calls and offers from competing employers. Candidates evaluate employers as much as employers evaluate them, researching company culture, management quality, and growth opportunities before accepting positions. Poor management now drives away talent that's expensive and difficult to replace, making leadership skills a critical business competency rather than a nice-to-have attribute. As Dr. Conerly explains, "There are more job openings than there are unemployed people. And the job openings are a soft number. There are plenty of businesses that say, yeah, we've got one position open. But if three good candidates happen to walk in the door that week, they grab all three of them." This reality requires business owners to rethink their approach to talent management and organizational design fundamentally. Three Pillars of Productivity-Driven Growth When faced with talent shortages, the most effective strategy is to maximize output from existing team members. This approach requires systematic investment in three critical areas: Tools and Technology Investment Regularly ask employees what tools would improve their productivity Don't assume cost prohibits investment—sometimes a $50 solution saves thousands in efficiency Involve employees in identifying workflow bottlenecks and daily frustrations Show employees you're willing to invest in their success and effectiveness Strategic Training and Development Provide management training before promoting high performers to leadership roles Offer skill development courses that align with career advancement goals Create mentorship programs that develop internal talent pipelines Invest in courses and coaching that employees specifically request Leadership Development and Management Excellence Recognize that people quit managers, not companies Train first-level supervisors in fundamental people management skills Focus manager time on coaching and development rather than just task completion Create systems that support consistent, meaningful employee feedback The Science of Retention: Your Secret Weapon for Business Growth The most cost-effective hiring strategy is keeping the employees you already have. This requires understanding what motivates your best performers and addressing their needs before competitors do. Dr. Conerly advocates for "stay interviews"—proactive conversations with valued employees about what keeps them engaged. He explains, "Instead of asking the cows why they left the barn after they're already gone, ask what do you like about the barn? What do you dislike about the barn?" This approach allows you to address issues while employees are still engaged rather than conducting exit interviews after they've already accepted other positions. Remember the 80/20 Management Problem, which is that most managers spend 80% of their time with the bottom 20% of performers—the problem employees who require constant attention and correction. Meanwhile, top performers receive minimal attention beyond occasional recognition. This backwards approach drives away your best people while enabling poor performance to persist. Consider These Advanced retention strategies: Implementing regular "stay interviews" with key employees every 90 days Addressing minor frustrations before they compound into major dissatisfaction Offering meaningful employee referral bonuses ($5,000 instead of $500) Creating celebration rituals around employee referrals and achievements Providing clear advancement paths and skill development opportunities Avoiding Critical Mistakes in Tight Labor Markets Mistake #1: Treating hiring as a reactive process Many business owners only think about hiring when they have immediate openings. This reactive approach puts you at a disadvantage because top candidates are typically employed and not actively seeking new jobs. Build continuous relationships with potential candidates through industry events and professional networks. Mistake #2: Undervaluing employee referrals If you're willing to pay recruiting agencies 20% of a new hire's salary, why offer employees only $500 for referring new hires? Increase referral bonuses to meaningful amounts—$2,500 to $5,000 for professional positions—and celebrate them publicly. Mistake #3: Ignoring the first-level manager problem Poor management is the primary reason good employees leave. Many companies promote technical experts to management roles without providing leadership training. This creates a cascade of issues that drives away talent and reduces overall productivity. Mistake #4: Focusing only on compensation While competitive pay matters, employees often want things that cost little but mean a lot: recognition, professional development opportunities, better tools, flexible schedules, or simply being heard when they suggest improvements. Mistake #5: Neglecting the stay interview process Most companies conduct exit interviews after employees have already decided to leave. Instead, implement regular "stay interviews" with top performers to understand what keeps them engaged and address concerns before they become deal-breakers. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Conduct comprehensive stay interviews with your top 20% of employees within the next 30 days Ask what they enjoy most about their role and the company Identify specific frustrations and operational bottlenecks Understand their career aspirations and development interests Address minor issues immediately before they become significant problems Audit and overhaul your employee referral program Calculate your current recruiting agency costs Increase referral bonuses to 25-30% of agency fees Create celebration rituals around successful referrals Track referral program effectiveness and ROI Develop your talent pipeline systematically Identify ideal candidates before you need them Build genuine relationships through industry events and associations Maintain contact with former employees who left on favorable terms Create systems for ongoing relationship building Invest in management training and development Provide leadership development for all first-level managers Train managers to conduct effective one-on-one meetings Create systems that prioritize employee coaching over administrative tasks Measure manager effectiveness through regular employee feedback Key Takeaways The tight labor market represents a permanent shift : Demographic trends mean competition for talent will intensify over the next decade, requiring fundamental changes in approach Productivity improvements can offset labor shortages : Strategic investments in tools, training, and management practices help existing teams accomplish more Retention is more cost-effective than recruiting : Keeping good employees costs significantly less than replacing them and provides better long-term results Employee referrals are dramatically underutilized : Most companies offer token incentives while paying agencies thousands for the same results Management quality determines retention success : Poor first-level management drives away top talent and creates expensive turnover cycles The businesses that thrive in this challenging environment will be those that view talent strategy as a core business function, not an HR afterthought. By focusing on productivity, retention, and strategic recruitment, small business owners can build the teams they need to achieve sustainable growth despite demographic headwinds and increased competition for skilled workers. Want to dive deeper into this topic? Listen to the full conversation between Corey Harlock and Bill Conerly on the KeyHire Small Business Podcast . For more insights on building stronger teams and scaling your business, visit KeyHire Solutions . Learn more about Bill Conerly: https://conerlyconsulting.com/ Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions

Small Business Leadership Advice: Transforming Uncertainty Into Your Competitive Advantage

By Corey Harlock • July 23, 2025

In today's volatile business environment, uncertainty has become the only constant. From supply chain disruptions to economic shifts, small business owners are facing unprecedented challenges that test their leadership abilities daily. But what if we told you that the key to thriving during uncertain times isn't about predicting the future—it's about creating certainty within your own organization? In a recent episode of the KeyHire Solutions Podcast , host Corey Harlock sat down with Simone Janssen, founder of Bulletproof Business Growth , to explore how successful business owners are doubling down on certainty during these turbulent times. Their conversation revealed powerful insights that can help transform your leadership approach and drive sustainable growth. The Foundation of Certainty: Understanding the 5 C's Framework Simone introduced a compelling framework that forms the backbone of effective leadership during uncertain times—the 5 C's: Clarity, Context, Communication, Certainty, and Consistency. These elements work together to create a stable foundation that allows teams to perform at their best, regardless of external chaos. Clarity means ensuring everyone understands the big picture and their role within it. Your team needs to know not just what they're doing, but why they're doing it and how it contributes to the overall vision. Context involves providing the strategic framework that helps employees understand how their daily tasks connect to larger business objectives. When people understand the "why" behind their work, they become more engaged and productive. Communication serves as the bridge between leadership vision and team execution. Regular, transparent communication prevents the confusion and misalignment that often derail small businesses during challenging periods. Certainty is what you create when you successfully implement the other elements. As Simone explains, "The more uncertain the outside, the more organized and the more on the same page we need to be on the inside." Consistency in implementing these principles ensures that your team knows what to expect and can rely on stable processes and clear expectations. Business Growth Tips: Creating Your Strategic Planning Process Start with a one-page plan : Don't overcomplicate your strategic planning. A focused, one-page document that outlines your vision, values, methods, key metrics, opportunities, and challenges can provide tremendous clarity for your team. Focus on short-term wins : Whether it's a quarter or even a week, having a clear short-term plan helps teams understand immediate priorities and creates momentum through achievable goals. Cascade communication properly: Deliver your plan through your direct reports instead of to everyone at once. This preserves your leadership structure and guarantees consistent messaging across the organization. Make it collaborative : Include your team in the planning process. When people participate in creating the strategy, they're more invested in its success. Review and adjust regularly : Meet weekly with your leadership team to assess progress and make necessary adjustments. This keeps everyone aligned and responsive to changing conditions. Scaling a Small Business: The People Challenge when dealing with Uncertainty The transition from a startup to a more established business inevitably requires tough team decisions, especially during periods of uncertainty. As your company expands, some early team members may struggle to meet the new demands and responsibilities. This is one of the most challenging aspects of growing a business, but strong leadership plays a crucial role in this process. The key is using what Simone calls a "litmus test" method. By setting clear expectations, offering proper support, and providing consistent feedback, you'll quickly see who can handle the new challenges and who cannot. Some team members will thrive under this clarity, while others may show that they are no longer suitable for their roles. "When you, as a leader, provide that clarity—giving a clear vision, specific action plans, open communication, feedback, and support—you'll quickly identify who rises to the occasion," Simone explains. This method is fair to employees and vital for your business's ongoing success. Small Business Challenges: The Common Pitfalls That Derail Growth During Uncertain Times Small business owners frequently make predictable mistakes that limit their growth potential and create unnecessary stress. Understanding these pitfalls can help you avoid them and build a more resilient organization. Treating leadership development as a "nice to have" : Many business owners push leadership development aside, thinking they'll get to it when they have more time or money. This is backward thinking; leadership development is what creates the time and resources for everything else. Failing to delegate effectively : The "I can do it faster myself" mentality becomes increasingly destructive as your business grows. While it might save time in the moment, it prevents your team from developing and creates a bottleneck that limits your company's potential. Avoiding difficult personnel decisions : Keeping underperforming employees in roles they've outgrown doesn't help anyone. It's not kind to the employee, and it's harmful to your business and other team members. Skipping the accountability structure : Without clear accountability, projects fall through the cracks, and team members become frustrated and disengaged. Everyone needs to know who's responsible for what and when it needs to be completed. Not hiring up soon enough : Many small business owners wait too long to bring in higher-level talent. This conservative approach often costs more in lost opportunities than the investment in better people would cost. Avoiding Mistakes Related to Performance Management and Team Development The KeyHire Podcast Episode reveals several critical mistakes that small business owners make when trying to manage performance and develop their teams during uncertain times: Mistake #1: Setting unclear expectations without proper follow-through. Many leaders create performance improvement plans or set new KPIs, but then fail to provide regular feedback and check-ins. Your team members need to know whether they're meeting expectations, and they need this feedback consistently, not just during annual reviews. Mistake #2: Assuming good intentions equal good results. Just because someone wants to help doesn't mean their help is valuable. Without clear role definitions and accountability structures, well-intentioned team members can actually create more work and confusion. Take time to define where each person can deliver the highest value. Mistake #3: Avoiding difficult conversations about family and friend hires. Family businesses face unique challenges, but the same principles apply. As Simone wisely notes, "Don't hire who you can't fire." If someone isn't performing, addressing it quickly and directly is better for everyone involved, including relationships outside of work. Mistake #4: Underestimating the importance of recognition and feedback. Even high-performing employees need to know they're valued. Regular recognition and constructive feedback aren't just nice gestures—they're essential for maintaining engagement and driving continued results. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Ready to implement these strategies in your business? Here's how to get started: Conduct a leadership audit : Honestly assess your current leadership practices using the 5 C's framework. Create your one-page strategic plan : Focus on the next quarter and identify your key priorities, success metrics, and potential obstacles. Schedule regular leadership meetings : Implement weekly check-ins with your direct reports to maintain alignment and address issues quickly. Review your team structure : Identify any roles where expectations aren't clear or accountability is missing. Address these gaps immediately. Invest in your leadership development : Whether through coaching, training, or consulting services like those offered by KeyHire Solutions , make leadership development a priority, not an afterthought. Key Takeaways Certainty is created, not discovered : Your job as a leader is to create a stable environment where your team can thrive, regardless of external uncertainty. The 5 C's framework provides a roadmap : Clarity, Context, Communication, Certainty, and Consistency work together to build high-performing teams. People decisions are business decisions : Don't let personal relationships prevent you from making the personnel changes your business needs to grow. Leadership development is an investment, not an expense : The time and resources you invest in becoming a better leader will pay dividends in team performance and business results. Start small but start now : You don't need to implement everything at once. Choose one area to focus on and build momentum through consistent action. The path forward isn't about eliminating uncertainty—it's about building an organization that can thrive regardless of what challenges come your way. By implementing these strategies and maintaining focus on your leadership development, you'll create the certainty your team needs to deliver exceptional results. Want to dive deeper into this topic? Listen to the full conversation between Corey Harlock and Simone Jannsen on the KeyHire Small Business Podcast . For more insights on building stronger teams and scaling your business, visit KeyHire Solutions . Learn more about Simone Jannsen: https://bulletproofbusinessgrowth.com/ Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions

Overcome Your 2025 Hiring Challenges

By Corey Harlock • July 23, 2025

The job market in 2025 continues to present unique obstacles for small business owners. While headlines highlight layoffs across major corporations, the reality for businesses with 10 to 50 employees tells a different story. According to recent findings from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), small businesses are facing unprecedented challenges in finding and retaining quality talent. In a recent episode of the KeyHire Small Business Podcast, host and KeyHire Solutions founder Corey Harlock breaks down the latest NFIB data and reveals why traditional hiring approaches are no longer effective. For small business owners generating $5 to $25 million in revenue, understanding these market shifts isn't just helpful—it's essential for sustainable growth. The Current State of Talent Acquisition: What the Numbers Really Mean According to Harlock's analysis of the NFIB's latest findings, the data reveals some startling trends that every small business owner should understand. His breakdown of the report shows that 19% of business owners identified filling jobs as their most important problem. A striking 40% cited hiring challenges as their biggest concern, particularly in the manufacturing, transportation, and construction sectors. Additionally, 38% of owners reported rising compensation costs as a major business challenge. However, here's a crucial insight that many business owners overlook: despite widespread corporate layoffs, the unemployment rate remains at just 4.2%. This means the talent pool remains surprisingly shallow. "We need to change the way we think about this," explains Harlock. "I know a lot of people think, oh, they're laying off. There's going to be a lot of people out there. We can get some good people cheap. Please change that mindset. You're hiring a rental player." By "rental player," Harlock means employees who accept below-market offers out of temporary necessity but will leave as soon as better opportunities arise. As he explains it: "If someone's making $100,000 a year, and you are able to get them because they're unemployed for $90,000, that doesn't mean they're sticking with you. It means as soon as the economy gets better and their company calls them back and offers them $100,000, they're gone." The math is sobering but straightforward. In a strong economy, unemployment typically hovers around 3% to 3.5%. Once you factor in the unemployable population —those without relevant skills or experience —the pool of qualified candidates shrinks dramatically. This explains why businesses continue struggling with hiring despite economic uncertainty. Modern Workforce Realities: How Employee Expectations Changed the Game The Remote Work Revolution Continues The pandemic fundamentally altered worker expectations, and these changes have become permanent fixtures of the employment landscape. Today's job seekers frequently express preferences like: "Unless this job is 100% remote, I'm not interested." "I'm looking for a hybrid role where I can work 2-3 days at home." "Unless it pays really well, I won't consider an office position." The Trades Crisis Deepens Skilled trades face particularly critical shortages. Fire and life safety technicians, security specialists, and traditional trade workers are in extremely high demand. Even trade schools report lower enrollment than desired, creating a supply-demand imbalance that drives wages upward. This shortage creates a domino effect: as businesses compete for a limited talent pool, compensation packages naturally increase. It's not just about the base salary anymore—candidates evaluate total compensation packages, including benefits, flexibility, and growth opportunities. Business Growth Tips: Strategic Approaches to Competitive Hiring Understanding the Seven Candidate Drivers Successful hiring in 2025 requires a systematic approach to compensation negotiation. KeyHire Solutions has developed a framework called the "Seven Candidate Driver Comparison" that evaluates every negotiable element: Title and Career Progression - Candidates want to show upward mobility Base Salary - The foundation of any competitive offer Benefits Package - Often the hidden cost that derails negotiations 401(k) and Retirement Planning - Increasingly important for experienced workers Bonuses and Incentives - Performance-based compensation can differentiate offers Paid Time Off - Award based on experience, not tenure Schedule Flexibility - The new battlefield for talent acquisition The Hidden Costs of Benefits Many small business owners underestimate how benefits impact their competitiveness. Consider this scenario: you offer a candidate a $10,000 salary increase, but your benefits package costs them $500 more per month than their current employer. Suddenly, that attractive raise becomes a modest $4,000 increase—likely insufficient to motivate a job change. "Here's the kicker," Harlock notes. "If they're coming from a company that has amazing benefits, and I've seen this happen a lot, this is where small business owners are at a disadvantage." Avoiding Common Hiring Mistakes in Today's Market Small business owners often fall into predictable traps that sabotage their hiring efforts: The "Desperate Candidate" Myth : Assuming unemployed candidates will accept lower offers ignores market realities. Quality candidates typically have multiple opportunities. Slow Decision-Making : Taking weeks to make hiring decisions virtually guarantees losing top talent to competitors who move faster. Lowball Initial Offers : The days of negotiating upward from conservative starting points are essentially a thing of the past. Candidates compare offers side by side and choose the best package. Ignoring Candidate Experience : Poor interview processes can drive candidates away from even prestigious opportunities. A smooth, professional experience often outweighs brand recognition. Underestimating Competition : If you're excited about a candidate, assume other employers are too. Every qualified candidate is likely fielding multiple offers. Focusing Only on Salary : Total compensation packages matter more than base pay. Benefits, flexibility, and growth opportunities can make or break negotiations. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Audit Your Current Compensation Structure Research market rates for your key positions Calculate the true cost of your benefits package Identify gaps where you're losing competitive edge Streamline Your Hiring Process Aim for 5-10 business days from initial contact to offer Create a consistent, professional candidate experience Prepare decision-makers to move quickly on strong candidates Develop Your Seven Candidate Driver Assessment Create templates for evaluating each negotiable element Practice having compensation conversations early in the process Build flexibility into your offer strategy Invest in Your Employer Brand Ensure your company culture attracts quality candidates Develop clear career progression paths Create compelling reasons beyond compensation for joining your team Key Takeaways The hiring landscape has shifted, and successful small business owners must adapt their strategies accordingly. The current 4.2% unemployment rate means qualified candidates remain scarce, despite corporate layoffs making headlines. This reality demands a more sophisticated approach to talent acquisition. Effective hiring in 2025 requires speed, strategic thinking, and comprehensive compensation planning. Businesses that master the Seven Candidate Driver framework while maintaining efficient processes will consistently outperform competitors still using outdated approaches. Most importantly, remember that hiring is now like a competitive sport. "If you're excited about someone, you're talking to someone and you're very excited about getting them on your team, I can guarantee you they are talking to at least one other employer," Harlock emphasizes. The businesses that thrive will be those that recognize this new reality and adapt accordingly. Whether you're looking to scale your operations or simply maintain your current team, understanding these market dynamics is essential for long-term success. Ready to transform your hiring strategy? KeyHire Solutions specializes in helping small businesses navigate these complex challenges. Listen to the full discussion on overcoming 2025 hiring challenges and discover how to build the team your business deserves. Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions

Small Business Leadership Advice: Planning Your Exit Strategy While Building Your Team

By Corey Harlock • July 16, 2025

As a small business owner, you're likely focused on the day-to-day challenges of running your company – hiring the right people, managing cash flow, and growing your customer base. But here's a question that might catch you off guard: What's your exit strategy? In a recent episode of the KeyHire Small Business Podcast , host Corey Harlock sat down with Eric Grafstrom, CEO of The Exit Guide , to discuss how entrepreneurs can package their businesses for a successful exit. The conversation revealed critical insights that every business owner should consider. The statistics are sobering: 85% of small businesses in the U.S. are owned by Gen X and Boomers, with most owners over 60-65. Whether you're planning to retire, pursue new ventures, or simply want to maximize your business value, understanding how to prepare for an exit is crucial for long-term success. The Reality of Small Business Management and Exit Planning Most entrepreneurs focus on business growth strategies, such as scaling operations, refining processes, and expanding market reach. Yet, seasoned business owners understand that building a successful company also involves planning its eventual exit, whether through sale, succession, or other means. The crucial point is that preparing for an exit goes beyond merely finding buyers; it involves strengthening your business fundamentals to add value now while positioning for future opportunities. For companies with revenues between $5-25 million, preparation becomes even more vital. These small businesses are in a sweet spot: large enough to attract serious buyers but lacking the resources of bigger corporations. Here, strategic planning and smart management intersect to ensure readiness for exit. Consider the following key considerations for your business exit: Financial Documentation : Three years of P&L statements, two to three years of filed tax returns, and current balance sheets Legal Documentation : Lease agreements, employee contracts, and other critical business agreements Operational Systems : Documented processes that can function without your constant oversight Team Structure : A management team capable of maintaining operations during transition periods Building a Scalable Business: The Foundation for Future Success The principles of scaling a small business and preparing for an exit are remarkably similar. Both require systems, processes, and teams that can operate independently of the founder. This alignment means that focusing on scalability today sets you up for a successful exit tomorrow. Eric emphasizes the importance of removing emotion from the equation: "Keep in mind, people are buying a business based on cash flow and other things. This is not an end of the market where people are buying opportunity." This perspective should influence how you build your team and structure your operations. Essential elements for building a scalable, exit-ready business include: Documented Processes : Every critical function should have clear procedures that any qualified person can follow Strong Management Team : Develop leaders who can make decisions and solve problems without constant input Diversified Revenue Streams : Reduce dependence on any single client, product, or service Clean Financial Records : Maintain accurate, up-to-date financial statements with professional oversight Compliance Systems : Ensure all legal, regulatory, and tax requirements are consistently met The Strategic Entrepreneur's Mindset: Thinking Long-Term Successful entrepreneurs recognize that each decision influences their future opportunities. This long-term perspective applies to hiring, operational improvements, and strategic planning. By focusing on the end goal from the start, you add value at every phase of your business journey. The talk with Eric highlighted the importance of a preparation timeline. He advises beginning formal preparations at least six months before launching your business. Nonetheless, foundational tasks such as establishing systems, developing teams, and keeping clean records should start well in advance. The strategic entrepreneur's approach includes: Setting specific timeline goals for exit preparation Regular financial health assessments Continuous improvement of operational systems Strategic team development and succession planning Market positioning that demonstrates value to potential buyers This mindset shift from "building a job for myself" to "building a valuable business asset" fundamentally changes how you approach growth challenges. It influences hiring decisions, investment priorities, and strategic planning in ways that benefit your business regardless of your ultimate exit timeline. Avoiding Common Mistakes That Derail Exit Plans The most successful business exits share common characteristics, just as the most problematic ones share predictable pitfalls. Understanding these mistakes can help you avoid them while building a stronger, more valuable business. Critical mistakes to avoid: Procrastination and Poor Planning : "No one wakes up on a Saturday morning and says, 'Well, I think I'm going to sell my house. Let's take a stick a sign in the front yard,'" Eric notes. The same principle applies to business sales. Emotional Attachment Over Financial Reality : Getting too personal about your business value can lead to unrealistic pricing and failed negotiations. Inadequate Financial Documentation : Errors in financial statements or missing documentation can kill deals during due diligence. Lack of Post-Exit Planning : "Have a plan for what you're going to do afterward," Eric emphasizes. "The brain doesn't know that you've sold the business... if that just drops off the table and isn't there anymore, you got to find something to replace it." Premature Market Testing : Discussing potential sales before you're prepared sends signals that you're not a serious seller. Overestimating Business Value : Using emotional rather than market-based valuations leads to unrealistic expectations and stalled negotiations. The interconnection between these mistakes and daily business management is significant. Poor financial practices, inadequate systems, and emotional decision-making that hurt exit potential also limit current business performance and growth opportunities. Taking Action: Your Next Steps The insights from this podcast episode reveal that successful exit preparation isn't about following a rigid checklist – it's about building fundamental business strengths that create value regardless of your timeline. Financial Foundation and Documentation: The cornerstone of any successful exit is maintaining clean, accurate financial records that effectively tell your business's story. This means working with qualified professionals to ensure your books are properly maintained, your tax returns are filed correctly, and your financial statements accurately reflect your business performance. Many business owners discover gaps in their documentation only when they're ready to sell, which can delay or derail potential deals. Operational Independence and Systems Development: Building systems that function without your constant oversight serves dual purposes: it improves your current business operations while making your company more attractive to potential buyers. This involves documenting key processes, developing standard operating procedures, and creating workflows that any qualified person can follow. The goal is to transform your business from something that depends entirely on you into an operation that generates predictable results. Team Development and Leadership Structure: Strong businesses have strong teams, and exit-ready businesses have teams capable of operating independently. This often requires strategic investments in leadership development, clear role definitions, and succession planning for key positions. KeyHire Solutions specializes in helping business owners build these capabilities through targeted human capital consulting and team development strategies. Market Positioning and Value Assessment: Understanding your business's true market value requires objective analysis based on industry standards and comparable transactions. This involves looking beyond your emotional attachment to the business and focusing on the financial metrics that drive buyer interest. Regular business valuations can help you understand how your improvements affect overall value and identify areas that require attention. Remember Eric's advice: "Set a date for which you will be ready to take this business to market." This creates focus and accountability around the preparation process, ensuring that exit readiness becomes an integral part of your business strategy rather than a last-minute scramble. Key Takeaways The path to a successful business exit begins with smart business-building practices implemented today. Whether you're planning to sell in two years or twenty, the fundamentals remain the same: build systems, develop people, maintain clean records, and think strategically about value creation. Essential points to remember: Start preparing at least six months before you want to go to market, but build exit-ready foundations much earlier Focus on cash flow and documented systems rather than emotional attachment to your business Develop a strong management team that can operate independently Maintain professional financial records and legal documentation Plan for life after the business, not just the financial aspects of the sale The intersection of effective small business management and exit planning isn't coincidental – they're two sides of the same coin. By building a business that could successfully operate without you, you create both immediate value and future opportunities. At KeyHire Solutions , we help business owners develop the teams and systems that support both current growth and future exit success. The human capital investments you make today directly impact your business value tomorrow. Whether you're ready to start planning your exit or simply want to build a more valuable business, the time to begin is now. Your future self – and your bank account – will thank you for the strategic decisions you make today. Learn more about Eric: https://exitguide.com/ Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey Harlock: corey@keyhire.solutions

The Entrepreneur Brain: Why Your Communication Style May Be Limiting Your Team's Success

By Corey Harlock • July 9, 2025

If you've ever wondered why your clear instructions seem to get lost in translation, or why your team doesn't share your urgency for that "obvious" opportunity, you're not alone. The answer might lie in how your brain is wired differently from your employees—and how this affects your workplace culture. In a recent episode of the KeyHire Small Business Podcast , KeyHire Solutions founder Corey Harlock sat down with Marina Morgan, founder of The Morgan Impact , to explore the fascinating world of entrepreneurial neuroscience. Their conversation revealed why successful business owners often struggle to connect with their teams and what you can do to address this issue. Understanding the Entrepreneurial Brain: What Makes You Different The entrepreneurial brain isn't just a metaphor—it's a scientifically documented phenomenon. Marina Morgan, an organizational psychologist with 15 years of experience, explains that entrepreneurs have measurably different neural pathways than their employees. The Dopamine Difference "The first and most important characteristic is the sensitivity of the dopamine system," Morgan explains. "Your experience, the wave of dopamine, your pleasure, your enjoyment when you achieve results, is much higher than in the average population." This heightened dopamine sensitivity means you literally feel more pleasure from achieving goals than your employees do. While this drives your ambition and risk-taking ability, it also means you can't expect your team to feel the same sense of accomplishment from hitting targets. Faster Processing, More Options Entrepreneurs also exhibit increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, which enables faster thinking and the ability to consider multiple solutions simultaneously. Recent neuroscience research reveals that business owners have significantly more neural pathways between key brain regions responsible for goal-setting and decision-making compared to their managers. This means when you see an "obvious" path to success, your team may genuinely need more time to develop those same neural connections. The Empathy Spectrum Interestingly, entrepreneurs tend to fall into two distinct categories: those with exceptionally high emotional intelligence and empathy, and those who exhibit characteristics more aligned with the autistic spectrum. Both can be highly successful, but they require different communication approaches. How Your Wiring Affects Your Small Business Leadership Development Understanding these neurological differences is crucial for effective small business leadership development. When you assume your team processes information the same way you do, communication breakdowns are inevitable. The Speed Trap Your brain's faster processing can make everyone else seem slow or unmotivated. "You probably can feel that they're too slow, they're not too involved, they're not very motivated," Morgan notes. "That doesn't mean that it's true. That probably means that you are too fast, you are too excited." The Motivation Myth The common refrain "I want you to treat this like it's your business" may be neurologically impossible for most employees. Their brains simply don't produce the same biochemical rewards from business success that yours does. Vulnerability to Burnout Entrepreneurs are twice as likely to struggle with addiction compared to the general population, often becoming addicted to the very act of creating and building businesses. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and burnout—both for you and your team. Creating a Thriving Workplace Culture: The Leader's Emotional Impact Your role as a leader extends far beyond strategy and decision-making. Recent research published in January 2025 shows that the way leaders communicate can literally alter the biochemistry of their employees' bodies. "You are the source of the emotional atmosphere in your team," Morgan emphasizes. "The words that you're using in your communication with your employees and the emotions that you provide for these words" directly affect your team's neurochemistry. The Authenticity Factor Your team can detect misalignment between your words and emotions. If you're stressed but trying to sound enthusiastic, your employees' nervous systems will respond to the underlying stress, not your positive words. This creates a cascade of negative biochemical changes that can impair their creativity, strategic thinking, and overall performance. Building Resilience Through Communication In today's rapidly changing business environment, your ability to create a calm, resilient atmosphere while maintaining high performance standards is crucial. Consider these strategies: Be predictable in your communication patterns - Your team needs to understand what to expect from you Create regular feedback channels - Weekly one-on-ones and monthly brainstorming sessions provide structure Acknowledge your humanity - When you have a bad day, be transparent about it rather than pretending everything is fine Align your stated values with your actions - If you claim to be family-oriented but don't support employees' family needs, the disconnect creates toxic stress Avoiding Communication Mistakes That Sabotage Team Performance Many well-intentioned entrepreneurs make critical errors that undermine their business growth tips and team effectiveness. Here are the most damaging mistakes and how to avoid them: Expecting the Same Dynamic Energy: Stop assuming your team will match your enthusiasm and pace. Their different neurological wiring means they process excitement and motivation in different ways. Being Dishonest About Your True Motivations: If you're primarily profit-driven, own it. Avoid creating a mission-driven façade that doesn't align with your actual decision-making process. Taking Business Rejection Personally: When you identify 100% with your business, every "no" feels like personal rejection. This emotional intensity can create unnecessary stress for your entire team. Ignoring the Biochemical Impact of Stress: Chronic stress shrinks your employees' prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for creativity and strategic thinking. Stressful communication styles make your team less capable, not more motivated. Failing to Recognize Different Personality Types: Not everyone on your team needs to be an entrepreneur. In fact, having detail-oriented, stability-focused employees can be crucial for long-term success. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Ready to transform your communication and leadership approach? Here's your roadmap: Step 1: Assess Your Current State: Take an honest inventory of your communication patterns. Record yourself in team meetings or ask for anonymous feedback about your leadership style. Step 2: Prioritize Your Own Well-being: "You must take care about the main resource that you have—yourself," Morgan advises. "The healthy brain and healthy nervous system make healthy choices." This isn't selfish; it's strategic. Step 3: Learn to Enjoy the Process: Train your nervous system to find pleasure in daily activities, not just end results. Plan moments of enjoyment into each week—this will improve your decision-making under pressure. Step 4: Maintain Your Identity Beyond Business: Set aside 20% of your life for non-business interests. This prevents unhealthy over-identification with your company and provides fresh perspectives for innovation. Step 5: Implement Structured Communication: Create predictable touchpoints with your team through regular one-on-ones and team brainstorming sessions. Consistency reduces stress and improves performance. Key Takeaways The entrepreneurial brain is both your greatest asset and your biggest challenge when it comes to team leadership. By understanding these neurological differences, you can: Communicate more effectively with team members who process information differently Create a workplace culture that enhances rather than inhibits your team's cognitive abilities Avoid the common pitfalls that sabotage even well-intentioned leaders Build a more resilient, high-performing organization Remember, effective leadership isn't about making your team think like entrepreneurs—it's about bridging the gap between different types of thinking to create extraordinary results. Want to dive deeper into this topic? Listen to the full conversation between Corey Harlock and Marina Morgan on the KeyHire Small Business Podcast . For more insights on building stronger teams and scaling your business, visit KeyHire Solutions . Learn more about Marina Morgan: https://themorganimpact.com/ Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions

Overcome Your 2025 Hiring Challenges: Essential Small Business Hiring Strategies for Growth

By Corey Harlock • July 2, 2025

The job market in 2025 continues to present unique obstacles for small business owners. While headlines highlight layoffs across major corporations, the reality for businesses with 10 to 50 employees tells a different story. According to recent findings from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), small businesses are facing unprecedented challenges in finding and retaining quality talent. In a recent episode of the KeyHire Small Business Podcast, host and KeyHire Solutions founder Corey Harlock breaks down the latest NFIB data and reveals why traditional hiring approaches are no longer effective. For small business owners generating $5 to $25 million in revenue, understanding these market shifts isn't just helpful—it's essential for sustainable growth. The Current State of Talent Acquisition: What the Numbers Really Mean According to Harlock's analysis of the NFIB's latest findings, the data reveals some startling trends that every small business owner should understand. His breakdown of the report shows that 19% of business owners identified filling jobs as their most important problem. A striking 40% cited hiring challenges as their biggest concern, particularly in the manufacturing, transportation, and construction sectors. Additionally, 38% of owners reported rising compensation costs as a major business challenge. However, here's a crucial insight that many business owners overlook: despite widespread corporate layoffs, the unemployment rate remains at just 4.2%. This means the talent pool remains surprisingly shallow. "We need to change the way we think about this," explains Harlock. "I know a lot of people think, oh, they're laying off. There's going to be a lot of people out there. We can get some good people cheap. Please change that mindset. You're hiring a rental player." By "rental player," Harlock means employees who accept below-market offers out of temporary necessity but will leave as soon as better opportunities arise. As he explains it: "If someone's making $100,000 a year, and you are able to get them because they're unemployed for $90,000, that doesn't mean they're sticking with you. It means as soon as the economy gets better and their company calls them back and offers them $100,000, they're gone." The math is sobering but straightforward. In a strong economy, unemployment typically hovers around 3% to 3.5%. Once you factor in the unemployable population —those without relevant skills or experience —the pool of qualified candidates shrinks dramatically. This explains why businesses continue struggling with hiring despite economic uncertainty. Modern Workforce Realities: How Employee Expectations Changed the Game The Remote Work Revolution Continues The pandemic fundamentally altered worker expectations, and these changes have become permanent fixtures of the employment landscape. Today's job seekers frequently express preferences like: "Unless this job is 100% remote, I'm not interested." "I'm looking for a hybrid role where I can work 2-3 days at home." "Unless it pays really well, I won't consider an office position." The Trades Crisis Deepens Skilled trades face particularly critical shortages. Fire and life safety technicians, security specialists, and traditional trade workers are in extremely high demand. Even trade schools report lower enrollment than desired, creating a supply-demand imbalance that drives wages upward. This shortage creates a domino effect: as businesses compete for a limited talent pool, compensation packages naturally increase. It's not just about the base salary anymore—candidates evaluate total compensation packages, including benefits, flexibility, and growth opportunities. Business Growth Tips: Strategic Approaches to Competitive Hiring Understanding the Seven Candidate Drivers Successful hiring in 2025 requires a systematic approach to compensation negotiation. KeyHire Solutions has developed a framework called the "Seven Candidate Driver Comparison" that evaluates every negotiable element: Title and Career Progression - Candidates want to show upward mobility Base Salary - The foundation of any competitive offer Benefits Package - Often the hidden cost that derails negotiations 401(k) and Retirement Planning - Increasingly important for experienced workers Bonuses and Incentives - Performance-based compensation can differentiate offers Paid Time Off - Award based on experience, not tenure Schedule Flexibility - The new battlefield for talent acquisition The Hidden Costs of Benefits Many small business owners underestimate how benefits impact their competitiveness. Consider this scenario: you offer a candidate a $10,000 salary increase, but your benefits package costs them $500 more per month than their current employer. Suddenly, that attractive raise becomes a modest $4,000 increase—likely insufficient to motivate a job change. "Here's the kicker," Harlock notes. "If they're coming from a company that has amazing benefits, and I've seen this happen a lot, this is where small business owners are at a disadvantage." Avoiding Common Hiring Mistakes in Today's Market Small business owners often fall into predictable traps that sabotage their hiring efforts: The "Desperate Candidate" Myth : Assuming unemployed candidates will accept lower offers ignores market realities. Quality candidates typically have multiple opportunities. Slow Decision-Making : Taking weeks to make hiring decisions virtually guarantees losing top talent to competitors who move faster. Lowball Initial Offers : The days of negotiating upward from conservative starting points are essentially a thing of the past. Candidates compare offers side by side and choose the best package. Ignoring Candidate Experience : Poor interview processes can drive candidates away from even prestigious opportunities. A smooth, professional experience often outweighs brand recognition. Underestimating Competition : If you're excited about a candidate, assume other employers are too. Every qualified candidate is likely fielding multiple offers. Focusing Only on Salary : Total compensation packages matter more than base pay. Benefits, flexibility, and growth opportunities can make or break negotiations. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Audit Your Current Compensation Structure Research market rates for your key positions Calculate the true cost of your benefits package Identify gaps where you're losing competitive edge Streamline Your Hiring Process Aim for 5-10 business days from initial contact to offer Create a consistent, professional candidate experience Prepare decision-makers to move quickly on strong candidates Develop Your Seven Candidate Driver Assessment Create templates for evaluating each negotiable element Practice having compensation conversations early in the process Build flexibility into your offer strategy Invest in Your Employer Brand Ensure your company culture attracts quality candidates Develop clear career progression paths Create compelling reasons beyond compensation for joining your team Key Takeaways The hiring landscape has shifted, and successful small business owners must adapt their strategies accordingly. The current 4.2% unemployment rate means qualified candidates remain scarce, despite corporate layoffs making headlines. This reality demands a more sophisticated approach to talent acquisition. Effective hiring in 2025 requires speed, strategic thinking, and comprehensive compensation planning. Businesses that master the Seven Candidate Driver framework while maintaining efficient processes will consistently outperform competitors still using outdated approaches. Most importantly, remember that hiring is now like a competitive sport. "If you're excited about someone, you're talking to someone and you're very excited about getting them on your team, I can guarantee you they are talking to at least one other employer," Harlock emphasizes. The businesses that thrive will be those that recognize this new reality and adapt accordingly. Whether you're looking to scale your operations or simply maintain your current team, understanding these market dynamics is essential for long-term success. Ready to transform your hiring strategy? KeyHire Solutions specializes in helping small businesses navigate these complex challenges. Listen to the full discussion on overcoming 2025 hiring challenges and discover how to build the team your business deserves. Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions

From Startup Squad to Scale-Ready Leaders: Can your leadership team take you to the next level?

By Corey Harlock • June 25, 2025

Every entrepreneur experiences the painful realization that those who contributed to building the company may not be equipped to elevate it further. This acknowledgment is one of the toughest realities in business growth, yet it's essential to identify when your leadership team has hit its limit to ensure ongoing success. In a recent episode of the KeyHire Small Business Podcast , host Corey Harlock from KeyHire Solutions sat down with Neil Katz, CEO and founder of Exceptional HR Solutions , to tackle this challenging topic. Their conversation revealed essential insights for business owners navigating the complex world of team assessment and strategic hiring. The Reality of Scaling a Small Business Leadership The harsh reality is that what got you here won't get you there . As Neil Katz explains, "When you have five or 10 employees, that same leader in many cases does not have the capability, skills, or background to get you to 100 employees or 1,000 employees or from a million in revenue to 50 million." This isn't a criticism of your current team; it's just the reality of business growth. The skills required to manage a $2 million operation differ dramatically from those needed to run a $20 million enterprise. Your neighbor's cousin, who started with you in the garage, may have given everything they had, but their experience ceiling might not match your business's trajectory. Companies usually transform their entire organization—people, structures, processes, and systems—each time they triple in size. Some exceptional individuals can scale through multiple growth phases, but they're rare. Most leaders hit their natural ceiling, and recognizing this early can save you months of frustration and lost revenue. Overcoming Hiring Challenges: Experience vs. Potential A major hiring challenge for small business owners is the ongoing discussion about whether to hire based on potential or experience. KeyHire Solutions philosophy breaks this down simply: you're either hiring for potential or experience, each with distinct ROI timelines. Potential comes at a lower upfront cost but requires 12-24 months before you see returns. You'll need comprehensive training programs, mentoring resources, and significant time investment. Experience costs more initially but delivers almost immediate ROI. Mistakes are made when companies invest in potential, anticipating the ROI that comes with experience. This leads to a revolving door of letdown hires, as new team members may begin with enthusiasm but soon fall short of expectations. For companies under 50 employees, Neil strongly advises prioritizing experienced talent: "Do we have bandwidth, the resources, and the capacity to train this individual that's 12, 24, 36 months behind where I need them to be? You need to focus on your clients, your investors, your strategy, and the financial components of your business." How to Scale a Business: Strategic Talent Acquisition Approach The Investment Mindset Smart business owners understand there's ROI on talent. When you buy experience in the open market, you're making a strategic investment in your company's future. Yes, it's more expensive upfront, but the alternative – hoping untested potential will develop quickly enough to meet urgent business needs – often costs more in lost opportunities and delayed growth. Beyond the Job Description Effective talent acquisition involves more than just aligning skills with job requirements. It's essential to find candidates whose soft skills, leadership abilities, and core values resonate with your mission. Naturally, they should meet the standard criteria, possessing the necessary competencies, skills, and background. However, consider these expanded factors to ensure they have the qualities that will align with your business and team. The Three-Option Framework When transitioning existing team members, Corey recommends offering three clear paths: Mentorship and development under new leadership Lateral movement to better-suited departments Graceful exit with full support and references While most people initially choose options one or two, the reality is that many eventually move to option three as they struggle with the transition. Avoiding Common Leadership Assessment Mistakes Over-Elevating Too Quickly: The biggest error is promoting people multiple title levels beyond their capabilities. That reliable machine operator who became a supervisor shouldn't automatically become the Director of Operations without proper development. Establish clear competency levels and KPIs before promoting any individual. Letting Subjectivity Rule Decisions: Personal relationships cloud judgment. Neil emphasizes the importance of objective evaluation: "Take the names out. If you were just evaluating the roles without a name, evaluate and ask yourself, is that role achieving the functions I need today and at least the next 24 months ahead?" Equity Complications: Offering ownership stakes to early employees creates additional complexity when changes become necessary. Plan exit strategies for equity holders well in advance, before you need them. Ignoring Red Flags: Most business owners admit they've known about performance issues for months or years before taking action. Trust your instincts and address concerns promptly rather than hoping they'll resolve naturally. Waiting Until Crisis Mode Don't wait until you desperately need new leadership to start looking. Network continuously and build relationships with potential future team members well before you need them. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Conduct an Objective Team Assessment Remove names and evaluate each role based purely on performance metrics Assess whether current capabilities match 24-month business projections Identify skill gaps that could constrain growth Define Your Growth Requirements Map out the leadership capabilities needed for your next revenue milestone Determine which roles need immediate attention versus future planning Create clear job specifications that go beyond basic qualifications Build Your Pipeline Start networking now for future leadership needs Connect with industry professionals who could join your team in 1-3 years Maintain relationships even when you're not actively hiring Develop Transition Plans Create clear communication strategies for team changes Prepare multiple scenarios for existing team members Document processes to minimize disruption during transitions Invest in Current Talent Where Appropriate Consider executive coaching for promising leaders Provide targeted training for specific skill gaps Realign responsibilities to match individual strengths better Key Takeaways The journey from startup to a scaled business requires an honest assessment of your leadership team's capabilities. While it's emotionally challenging to recognize that loyal, hardworking team members may not be equipped for your company's next chapter, addressing these issues proactively prevents larger problems down the road. Remember Corey's insight: "You can't run a $30 million a year business on a $2 million process." The same principle applies to people – you can't scale to $25 million with a leadership team built for $5 million operations . Success in small business leadership development comes from balancing loyalty to existing team members with objective assessment of business needs. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is help someone find a role where they can truly excel, even if that's not with your company. The entrepreneurs who successfully navigate these challenges are those who act decisively while treating people with dignity throughout the process. They understand that building a scalable business sometimes requires difficult decisions, but they approach those decisions with clarity, compassion, and strategic thinking. Listen to the full conversation with Neil Katz on this podcast episode for more detailed insights into building teams that can scale with your business. Learn more about Neil Katz: https://www.exceptionalhrsolutions.com/ Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions

Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses: Why Most Entrepreneurs Are Drowning in Digital Noise (And How to Stop)

By Corey Harlock • June 18, 2025

Running a growing business with 10-50 employees is like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. You're managing teams, chasing revenue goals, and trying to scale operations—and then someone tells you that you also need to master digital marketing. The result? Most business owners either freeze up completely or throw money at every shiny marketing platform, hoping something will stick. In a recent episode of the KeyHire Small Business Podcast , host Corey Harlock sat down with Corey Morris, Founder of Voltage Digital Marketing , to cut through the marketing noise and reveal what actually works for growing businesses. The conversation revealed why most small business marketing strategies fail—and, more importantly, how to build a marketing strategy that drives real results without overwhelming your already stretched resources. The Hidden Costs of Marketing Mayhem One of the biggest challenges for small businesses isn't having too little marketing—it's having too much unfocused activity. Corey Morris explains the core problem: "There's a disconnect between tactics or activity and ROI. Marketing is this thing we do or this set of activities. And we don't necessarily know how to connect it to ROI. If you're not looking at marketing as an investment with an expected return on investment, it's going to be a painful line item." This disconnect creates a cascade of problems. Business owners often assign marketing responsibilities to existing team members—usually someone who "gets social media"—without realizing they're breaking that person's focus and diminishing their core performance. The result is mediocre marketing that generates vanity metrics (likes, shares, impressions) while your phone stays silent and your inbox remains empty of qualified leads. Even worse, many businesses discover they're actually losing money on their marketing efforts without realizing it. Companies often celebrate metrics like clicks, leads, and even initial sales while failing to track the complete customer journey. When you factor in the true cost of converting those leads, customer acquisition expenses, and long-term retention rates, what appeared to be successful marketing campaigns can reveal themselves to be money pits. How to Scale a Business with Strategic Marketing Planning The antidote to marketing chaos isn't more tactics—it's better planning. Large corporations spend months and hundreds of thousands of dollars on developing their strategies. While those numbers may not be feasible for growing small businesses, a streamlined approach is still needed that balances thoroughness with agility. The Foundation: Know Your Numbers Before diving into tactics, establish clear financial benchmarks that will guide every marketing decision. This foundational step separates successful marketing investments from expensive experiments. Calculate your customer acquisition cost and lifetime value to understand the true economics of your growth. Determine your marketing ROI expectations just like any other business investment. Set clear conversion goals that matter: qualified leads, meaningful sales calls, and closed deals that drive revenue. Most importantly, understand your sales pipeline metrics so you can work backwards from revenue goals to determine the marketing activity required to hit your targets. The Strategy: Document Your Plan Morris emphasizes the critical importance of getting your plan onto paper: "Keep it visible somewhere. Define your ultimate goal and the corresponding strategy. If you can't articulate this like a purpose statement for your marketing, then you're going to chase the shiny objects when they come up." A documented strategy serves as your marketing filter, helping you say no to distracting opportunities and yes to activities that drive results. Your marketing strategy document should answer the fundamental questions: Who are we targeting? (Be specific about your ideal customer profile) What are we offering? (Your unique value proposition, not just features) Where will we reach them? (Which platforms align with your audience and budget) Why should they care? (The problem you solve and the outcome you deliver) How will we measure success? (Specific metrics tied to business goals) Smart Platform Selection for Business Growth Not all marketing platforms are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can quickly drain your budget. The key is matching platform selection to your customer behavior and business model. For B2B companies, LinkedIn typically offers the highest ROI, while Google captures high-intent prospects. However, avoid platform bias when making decisions. Many business owners dismiss platforms based on personal preferences rather than customer data. Your ideal customer might engage differently during personal versus professional hours. A manufacturing executive scrolling Facebook after bedtime might be more receptive to a software demo than navigating LinkedIn's professional noise during business hours. The platform selection process should include: Audience Research : Validate where customers spend time using platform tools Competitive Analysis : Identify competitor successes and gaps Content Compatibility : Choose platforms aligned with your content capabilities Integration Potential : Prioritize platforms sharing content/audiences Budget Allocation : Master 1-2 platforms before expanding The most successful small businesses focus energy on dominating one or two channels rather than spreading themselves too thin. This focused strategy offers improved ROI on both time and marketing investments. Avoiding Mistakes That Sabotage Small Business Marketing Even well-intentioned marketing efforts can backfire without proper execution. Here are the most common pitfalls that derail small business marketing—and how to avoid them: The "Test and Learn" Trap : Constantly experimenting with ad spend without proper research can waste money if you haven't done baseline research first. Too Many Cooks : Trying to manage marketing by committee results in inconsistent messaging and a diluted focus. Assign clear ownership and decision-making authority. Unrealistic Unicorn Expectations : Expecting one person to master every platform and channel leads to burnout and mediocre results across the board. Vanity Metrics Obsession : Focusing on likes, shares, and impressions while ignoring conversion rates and customer acquisition costs. Inconsistent Execution : Starting and stopping campaigns based on busy seasons or budget fluctuations prevents the compounding effects that make marketing profitable. Platform Proliferation : Spreading thin across multiple platforms instead of dominating 1-2 channels. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Ready to transform your marketing from expense to investment? Start with a commitment to the fundamentals. First, honestly assess your current efforts. Calculate the actual cost of your marketing-ad spend, staff time, and hidden expenses. Review six months of activities and trace them to actual leads and conversions. This reveals which efforts generate real ROI versus busy work. Document and maintain visibility of your marketing plan to ensure consistent execution and measurable results. Write down your complete marketing strategy, tactics, and testing plans—whether you handle marketing yourself or delegate it. Keep this documentation easily accessible and visible. Most small businesses struggle with measurement, but this offers the most significant opportunity. Track prospects from their first click to becoming a paying customer. Start simple with existing tools and build consistently. Focus on numbers that impact your bottom line. When launching, resist the temptation to test everything simultaneously. Pick one or two platforms where your ideal customers spend time and master those channels first. Allow a minimum of 90 days for results—marketing's profitable compounding effects need time to build momentum. Key Takeaways The path to marketing success isn't about doing more—it's about doing the right things consistently and measuring what matters. As Morris puts it: "You know what your growth goal is for the next year as a company. Distill that down to what your expectations are for marketing. Understand that for every dollar that you want to spend, how many dollars you need to get back or what that looks like for your return on investment." Marketing is an investment , not an expense—treat it like any other business investment with clear ROI expectations Strategy before tactics —document your plan and use it as a filter for every marketing decision Platform quality over quantity —master 1-2 channels before expanding Measure what matters —focus on metrics that connect to actual revenue, not vanity metrics Consistency compounds —irregular marketing efforts prevent the cumulative effects that drive profitability The marketing landscape will continue evolving, but these fundamentals remain constant. By building a solid foundation and maintaining disciplined execution, you can turn marketing from a source of stress into your most reliable growth engine. Want to dive deeper into building effective systems for your growing business? Listen to the full conversation on the KeyHire Small Business Podcast . Learn more about Correy Morris: https://thedmsp.com Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions

Why Small Business Leadership Development Fails When Everyone's "Right" (And How to Fix It)

By Corey Harlock • June 11, 2025

Imagine this scenario: Your sales director enters the conference room armed with customer feedback and revenue projections. They’re absolutely convinced that maximum flexibility is the key to closing deals and growing the business. Across the table, your operations manager presents equally compelling process documentation and quality metrics. They demonstrate beyond doubt that standardized procedures are essential for sustainable growth. Both leaders are passionate. Both have data. And both are entirely right, from their own perspectives. This is what Dr. Bob Johnson calls being "100% right in a 200% world." The concept is deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful. In any organizational challenge, each stakeholder can be completely correct from their functional viewpoint. This creates what feels like two separate 100% solutions. The problem isn't that everyone is wrong; it's that the problem's definition itself is too narrow to accommodate everyone's legitimate concerns. As Dr. Bob explains, "until they can remember that they have to grow into a 200% version of that problem, they're going to keep arm wrestling over solutions and escalating problems to bosses." In a recent KeyHire Solutions podcast episode , host Corey Harlock explored this phenomenon with Dr. Bob Johnson, founder of Team Transformation . Their conversation revealed why even the most capable leadership teams get trapped in these cycles. More importantly, it showed how business owners can transform conflict into a competitive advantage. The Hidden Cost of "Win and Be Right" Culture For small businesses generating $5 million to $ 25 million in revenue, each leadership decision carries significant weight. When department heads operate from what Dr. Bob calls a "win and be right mindset," the damage extends far beyond individual disagreements. This mindset fosters a defensive culture where leaders become more focused on proving they're not the problem than on solving problems. As Dr. Bob explains, "The biggest source of pain in organizations, particularly at more senior levels, is reputational threats. That somehow my function or my team is going to look like we're the ones that drop the ball." When reputation protection becomes the primary concern, collaboration dies. Department heads come to meetings with their minds already made up, expending energy defending their positions rather than exploring solutions. They listen to respond, not to understand. They concentrate on fixing other teams instead of examining their contributions to the challenge. The business costs are substantial and often hidden. Leaders escalate problems to you instead of addressing them collaboratively, turning you into a full-time referee when you should be driving growth. Critical decisions get delayed while teams debate who is responsible, rather than focusing on what needs to happen. When decisions are finally made, they lack the full buy-in necessary for successful execution. Most damaging of all, your organization loses its creative potential. The breakthrough solutions that could serve everyone's needs never emerge because teams remain focused on winning their individual battles rather than solving the bigger challenge together. This leads to the inability to access the collective intelligence that makes great companies exceptional. Business Growth Tips: Moving from Compromise to Creativity Traditional leadership advice often focuses on finding the middle ground through compromise. Dr. Bob offers a more powerful alternative: "Our world probably needs more of it, but I'm less interested in compromise and more interested in creativity." The difference is profound. Compromise typically means everyone gives up something they value. Creativity means expanding the problem definition until you can solve for everyone's core needs simultaneously. Real-World Example: 100% Perspective (Sales): "We need complete flexibility to customize for clients." 100% Perspective (Operations): "We need standardized processes to maintain quality." 200% Solution: "How do we create flexible systems that maintain quality standards?" This new perspective creates opportunities that neither party could have imagined independently. The solution might involve modular service components that can be combined freely or at hierarchical service levels, each with distinct quality protocols. The essential approach is to move beyond binary thinking to adopt inclusive solutions. Leadership Development Through the Three Critical Shifts KeyHire Solutions collaborates with numerous growing businesses, and we consistently observe three distinct patterns that distinguish high-performing teams from those mired in conflict cycles. Dr. Bob's framework provides a roadmap for transformation: 1. From Closed to Open The first challenge occurs when teams enter discussions with their minds already made up. Leaders arrive at meetings convinced they have the right answer and spend their time defending their position rather than exploring alternatives. This closed mindset creates defensive conversations where everyone talks but nobody learns. The transformation happens when you coach leaders to genuinely understand opposing viewpoints until they can articulate them so accurately that the other side says, "Exactly." This isn't about agreeing with every perspective but about demonstrating that you truly comprehend the reasoning behind different approaches. When people feel genuinely heard and understood, trust naturally builds, creating the foundation for productive collaboration. 2. From Static to Dynamic The second pattern involves teams getting stuck on the problems they know rather than the problems they need to solve. Department heads become so focused on their immediate pain points that they lose sight of the bigger picture. Sales fixates on flexibility, operations on efficiency, and finance on cost control – each viewing the challenge through their functional lens. The breakthrough comes when you guide leaders to expand problem definitions to include everyone's pain points. Instead of asking "How do we get more flexibility?" the question becomes "How do we create flexibility while maintaining efficiency and controlling costs?" This expanded problem definition naturally leads to solutions that address root causes rather than symptoms, resulting in outcomes that benefit the entire organization. 3. From Problem to Partnership The final shift addresses how teams view each other during conflicts. Too often, leaders see colleagues from different departments as obstacles to overcome rather than partners in problem-solving. This adversarial mindset turns every disagreement into a zero-sum game where one side must lose for the other to win. The transformation occurs when leaders recognize that those who complain most often care most deeply about the business. That passionate operations manager isn't trying to block sales – they're protecting quality standards because they care about customer satisfaction. When you help leaders reframe their perspective this way, conflict becomes a catalyst for innovation rather than a source of dysfunction. Avoiding Common Leadership Mistakes When Scaling a Small Business and When Everyone's "Right" Even well-intentioned business owners fall into predictable traps when their teams clash. Here are the most costly mistakes we see – and how to avoid them: The Referee Leader: Stepping in to make decisions when teams can't agree feels efficient, but it creates dependency and undermines team development. Your $ 200 K+ leaders should be solving these problems, not escalating them. The Hands-Off Approach: Hoping conflicts will resolve themselves rarely works. Problems typically go underground or resurface with greater intensity. The Relationship Band-Aid: Suggesting team members "just get lunch together" addresses symptoms, not systems. Surface-level relationship building doesn't solve structural alignment issues. The Premature Solution: As Dr. Bob notes, we often "believe solutions are more valuable than problems" and rush to fix things before fully understanding what needs fixing. This approach virtually guarantees problems with buy-in later. The Single Perspective Trap: When you consistently favor one department's viewpoint (often sales, given revenue pressures), you may win short-term battles while losing long-term organizational capability. Taking Action: Your Next Steps Ready to transform your leadership team dynamics? The journey begins with an honest assessment of your current situation. Start by identifying your organization's most persistent "here we go again" conflicts – those recurring disputes that seem to resurface every few months, regardless of how many times you think they've been resolved. Take note of the stakeholders involved and their typical positions, but more importantly, recognize your own patterns. Which side do you typically favor and why? Understanding your unconscious biases is crucial because your team will mirror your approach to conflict resolution. Once you've mapped the landscape, begin practicing the "exactly" test with your next team conflict. Rather than jumping into a referee role, coach one leader to articulate their opponent's viewpoint until the other party acknowledges it as accurate. This single practice will feel awkward at first, but it's transformative. You're essentially teaching your leaders to expand their problem definitions to include multiple perspectives, which is where breakthrough solutions emerge. As these skills develop, implement new meeting protocols that require problem exploration before solution generation. Train your leadership team on the three critical shifts framework, emphasizing that problems are more valuable than solutions because all the creativity and partnership potential lies in properly understanding what you're trying to solve. Create accountability measures for collaborative problem-solving, making it clear that bringing solutions rather than problems to your office is now the expectation. A lasting culture change occurs when you regularly acknowledge instances of creative solutions rather than opting for either/or compromises. Share stories of successful cross-functional collaboration in team meetings and company communications. Most importantly, make problem-solving partnership a key leadership competency in performance reviews and hiring decisions. When your team sees that collaborative problem-solving is valued and rewarded, the behavior becomes self-reinforcing throughout your organization. Key Takeaways Dr. Bob's insights reveal a fundamental truth: "The problem isn't the problem. The problem is how we deal with the problem." For small business owners serious about sustainable growth, this distinction is game-changing. Embrace the 200% Mindset : When conflicts arise, expand your problem definition rather than picking sides Develop Internal Capacity : Your leadership team should be solving problems, not escalating them to you Focus on Partnership : The energy behind complaints often reflects deep caring – channel it toward solutions The businesses that thrive in today's complex marketplace aren't those with the smartest individual contributors – they're the ones that harness collective intelligence most effectively. When your leadership team masters the art of collaborative problem-solving, you're not just resolving today's conflicts; you're building tomorrow's competitive advantage. Ready to stop refereeing and start leading? KeyHire Solutions specializes in helping growing businesses develop and hire the leadership talent that drives sustainable success. Because in a 200% world, the companies that win are those that refuse to settle for 100% solutions. Want to dive deeper into these concepts? Listen to the full conversation with Dr. Bob Johnson on the KeyHire Small Business Podcast . Learn more about Dr. Bob: https://teamtransformationmethod.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbobjohnson/ Check out our sponsor: Career Spring, Careers launch here: https://careerspring.org/ Connect With Us: KeyHire LinkedIn KeyHire Facebook KeyHire YouTube KeyHire Instagram KeyHire Solutions, Be Our Next Success Story: https://www.keyhire.solutions/testimonials Contact Corey: corey@keyhire.solutions