This podcast is jam-packed with actionable insights that can change the trajectory of your trade business. Take note; this is more than just a chat—it's a lifeline for your business. The Challenge of Hiring Quality Tradespeople: Let's face it, finding top-tier talent is tough. Kirk and Greg address this obstacle head-on, acknowledging the challenge but also shedding light on the approaches that can make this arduous task achievable. Strategic Work Specialisation: They dive into the McDonald’s model for business: Simplify and systematize. By focusing on aspects of your trade that are easier to train for, you can get new hires up to speed quicker. This increases your profitability in the short term while also serving as a training ground for more complex tasks. The Impact of COVID-19 on Talent Pool: Greg and Kirk discuss how the pandemic has led to a surge in new businesses, thinning the available talent pool. It's an added hurdle, but one that can be overcome with strategic planning and strong business processes. The Importance of Onboarding: Let’s talk about your first impressions. The initial onboarding and training experience is crucial. Kirk and Greg emphasize that looking at the first month as an investment period can yield significant long-term gains. Employee Malleability: Your hires come with their habits and attitudes. The first six months are your golden opportunity to shape these behaviors to align with your business values and operational requirements. Proactive vs. Reactive Hiring: One of the most important takeaways is the concept of proactive hiring. Don't wait until you're drowning in work to look for new talent. Plan ahead to have the luxury of time for effective onboarding and training. The Probation Period: This is where you figure out if your new hires are a good fit. The conversation dives into how a well-structured probation period can act as a safety net, helping you make informed decisions about long-term employment. Specialisation vs. Generalisation: They close by discussing the balance between offering specialized services and more general offerings. Sometimes it's more beneficial to focus on simpler tasks that can be easily taught, thus enabling faster training and onboarding for new hires. Every point here is a lesson learned, a mistake avoided, or an opportunity to scale and grow. These are the building blocks of operational freedom in your trade business. This podcast isn't just for listening; it's for implementing. So, what are you waiting for? Your blueprint for success is right here. Grab it! 👉 BOOK A CALL WITH AN ACADEMY COACH HERE --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tradies-academy-business/message