With time, as your startup grows, the need to hire more people and build and develop support structures will arise. This is a critical point in the life of any new business. A company’s employees are essentially word of mouth agents, who go out to their families, friends and acquaintances, and let them know what it is really like to work at your company. If your employees are disconnected from your business’ vision, are not aligned with the core values that the business is built on, and are just paid wages in return for the hours they put in….do you really think they will care?

People are your most important assets. Unfortunately, this mantra is just a mantra at many companies. I admit that as businesses get larger, keeping that close knit working environment becomes more challenging. However, that should not be used as an excuse to dilute the passion, the basis which the business was found on. Many talented individuals join smaller companies,  not only to shine and stand out, but to be more than just another statistic at a larger company! As a small business, this is something we need to take advantage of and build a culture that not only rewards, but is transparent in operation.

The greater the level of buy-in by each person that works at your business, the higher will be their level of productivity. Before placing your customers as your number one priority, take a look at the people who work side by side with you everyday. Are their needs taken care of ? Do they feel like they are a part of the business that your team is creating? Answering these critical questions will not only result in a more motivated work force, it will result in happier customers, and in turn, happier investors!