I love the phrase from multi-millionaire Dan Kennedy, who said: if you can build a multi-million dollar business with 10 people — why would you need more? If you can do it with 3 — even better. If you can do it with 1 — fantastic. If you can do it alone — simply brilliant.
A team isn't always necessary. It depends on the niche and the goal.
There's no point in inflating headcount just to have an impressive image. I'm for efficiency. Yes, most businesses in production and services need more employees. Most are dependent on their team — and that's great! It allows you to assemble the best people. In some cases, for example in consulting or expert businesses — you can work solo and earn very well. The question is always: what's the goal? What does the business model require?
On building a team: there's a lot to say. There are different technologies for team motivation — working with metrics, KPIs, building processes. Each deserves its own deep dive. But if I had to summarize the most important thing: a team member should see their work with you as the best current opportunity for their personal growth. And working with you should help them achieve it. That's the most important thing.
People work for you for two reasons:
- They love your business, the scale you're building, and they want to be part of something big.
- They want to live well, to live better, to travel, to build a family. And it would be great if working with you helped make that happen.
If you can offer both — you'll attract the best people.
