Why Putting Your People First Makes Your Business LAST!

Let's chat about something super important but that also gets overlooked SO often: our amazing teams!  Because seriously, without those incredible people by your side, crushing deadlines and making magic happen, where would we be? Exactly. Stuck in a solo show, for sure with a serious case of burnout.

So, listen up! Today's all about why putting your employees FIRST.  Because guess what? Happy employees translate to a happy business, booming with creativity, productivity, and, let's be honest, good vibes all around.✌️These businesses LAST because people actually feel supported and stay with the company - hopefully because they're GROWING with the company (hint, hint)! More on that in a bit. 

Now, I know what you might be thinking: "I'm a small business owner! I barely have enough coffee in my system to tackle my own to-do list, let alone fancy perks!" But hear me out, this isn't about fancy nap pods or an in-office kombucha fountain (although, wouldn't that be amazing? I know some small businesses that have legit self-service BARS in their offices... Okay, I digress...).  Putting your people first can be way simpler (and way more impactful) than you think.

Here's the scoop on how to create a team environment that makes EVERYONE win:

• Be a cheerleader, not a drill sergeant. We all know the feeling of working for a boss who sucks the fun out of every task. Don't be that person! Celebrate wins, big and small. Get to know how your team members like to be celebrated or acknowledged, and then DO THAT. Upping your people-ing skills will help your team want to do more for the business and stay around. Your team will feel valued and motivated to keep bringing their A-game.

• Flexibility is your friend. Life throws curveballs, for everyone. Whether it's a kiddo's school play or needing a mental health day (because yes, those are important!), create a work environment that allows for some wiggle room. Make meetings walking meetings on a nice day. Make it a half day because Gasparilla events are this weekend and everyone's head is there anyway (IYKYK). Trust your team to get things done, and they'll surprise you with their dedication. If there's anything I've learned by starting my own team, it's that a little flexibility goes a long way in showing you actually care about the people that make your business possible. Bonus points: Consider offering remote work options you can!

• Invest in their growth (and yours!). Nobody wants to feel stuck in a rut. Show your team you're invested in their future by offering opportunities for professional development. This could be workshops, conferences, or even online courses related to their field. And guess what? When your team keeps learning and growing, they bring that fresh energy and expertise back to the business, making it even stronger. At CA we have annual reviews that play a huge role in this. Our annual reviews are not scored, they're not stuffy, and they're not stringently planned. It's an opportunity for each team member to review what they LIKE doing for us, what they don't like doing, and what they'd like to learn. This helps me as the leader to have a better view of where my teams' strengths lie and what strengths to look for in my next hires. We manage expectations in this meeting - just because you don't like doing something doesn't mean you won't get assigned it - and go over what the next year looks like for the business as far as big and small goals, me personally, and the team personally. We connect and get on the same page - yes, even through video chat. Next year we'll even break bread during the meeting! 

• Open communication is key. Nobody likes feeling like they're working in a black box. Encourage open communication with your team. Hold regular check-ins, be open to feedback-good and bad- and create a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing ideas. This builds trust, fosters collaboration, and helps you identify areas where you can improve as a business (and a boss!). At CA we have a transparency policy that is covered with each team member during onboarding. I tell each of my team members (and clients, for that matter) that honesty and transparency are some of my personal core values. If something isn't working, or you think we can do it better, or something goes really well or awry, I want them in my inbox about it ASAP. We don't ever struggle or celebrate alone. Period. 

Remember, your team is the backbone of your small business. By putting their needs and well-being first, you're not just creating a happier work environment, you're laying the foundation for long-term success.  Because let's face it, when your squad is happy and thriving, your business thrives too!  Now go out there and build that dream team!

About Creative Ascension Strategies

Creative Ascension Strategies is a US-based strategic consulting firm dedicated to empowering small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to achieve their full potential. We combine our expertise in internal operations (mobile app creation, workflow optimization, project & program management) and public branding (brand management, social media management & strategy) to help our clients secure market share, optimize operations, and build a strong brand presence.

Whether you're looking to streamline processes, develop a winning mobile app, or elevate your social media strategy, we have the tools and experience to help you ascend further in your business domain.

Ready to unlock your growth potential? Explore our Success Stories showcasing how we've helped other SMBs achieve remarkable results.