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Not Sure About Bringing on a New Team Member? Why Starting Small Might Be the Smartest Move You Make

  • Writer: Heather Duff
    Heather Duff
  • Sep 15
  • 3 min read

How it feels to have a business bestie that you can trust!
How it feels to have a business bestie that you can trust!

Hiring someone to step into your business can feel downright scary. You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and trusting someone else with your clients, your systems, or your inbox? That’s a big leap.

And honestly — I get it. As a mom of five and a business owner myself, I know how personal and precious our work is. Handing over even a piece of it can feel like letting go of control.

But here’s the truth: you don’t have to dive headfirst. You can start small.


Why Hiring Feels Risky

When business owners think about hiring, three fears usually come up:

  • Trust → Will this person get my vision?

  • Value → Will they actually make things easier?

  • Fit → Will we work well together, or will it be awkward?

It’s not just about tasks — it’s about inviting someone into the heartbeat of your business.


The Difference Between an OBM and a VA

This is where a lot of the confusion starts. Do you need an OBM or a VA?

  • An OBM (Online Business Manager): looks at the big picture — systems, operations, team management, project oversight. Think of it as having someone organize the entire back end of your business so you can focus on growth.

  • A VA (Virtual Assistant): is task-based. You delegate, they get it done. Email management, scheduling, uploading content, customer support — the nuts and bolts.

The good news? You don’t have to choose one or the other right away. You can start where you’re at.


The “Get to Know You” Project

Because I understand that hiring is scary, I created something I call the Get to Know You Project.

Here’s how it works:

  • You pick a project that would give you relief right now — inbox cleanup, onboarding setup, project management dashboard, you name it.

  • I complete it at a discounted rate.

  • You get to “dip your toes in” and see what it’s like to have me as your right-hand gal.

No long-term contract. No pressure. Just a chance to test the waters and see how we click.


I'm offering this to show you that I have your back. When I work with someone, we become like family. The success of your business is as important to me as it is to you. I want to see you succeed, because that means I am too. When you're reaching your goals, you can focus on the parts of your business that I can't and have time to spend with your family, too.


Why start with a "Get to Know You" project?

  • Low Risk: You’re not committing to a full retainer yet.

  • Hands-On: You’ll see how I work, communicate, and deliver.

  • Clarity: By the end, you’ll know exactly what kind of support you need moving forward.

It’s like a first date for your business — simple, low stakes, and a chance to see if we’re a match.


If you’ve been feeling stretched thin but hesitating to get support, remember this: you don’t have to do it all alone, and you don’t have to leap before you’re ready.


Start small. Start safe. Start with a Get to Know You Project.


Book your free clarity call to get started on the project of you're choice.



Because sometimes the smallest first step leads to the biggest change.


Cheering you on,

Heather

 
 
 

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