How This Military Wife Paved Her Own Way to Success
How This Military Wife Paved Her Own Way to Success
What are the pros and cons of allowing clients to hire your team members?
One of the more challenging decisions, though it doesn’t negatively impact our clients, has been allowing clients to buy out their assistants. This is an ongoing “bad decision,” but it’s a bit of a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it gives our assistants a fantastic opportunity to work outside our organization and advance their careers, which is wonderful. On the other hand, we lose an exceptional assistant and the associated revenue. So, while it may be a "bad decision" for us financially, it’s ultimately beneficial for our team.
What are the benefits of switching from contractors to W2 employees for a business?
One of our biggest and best decisions was switching from having contractors to having all W2 employees. Now, all of our team members are W2 employees, which gives them more security than being contractors. This shift also allows us to offer benefits for them and their families, including 401(k), paid time off, paid maternity leave, and paid family leave. I’d say it’s one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.
How can businesses support team members' financial security?
The security aspect is crucial. The military isn’t exactly known for fostering strong, secure marriages or long-term support in that area. So, when spouses can establish independence from the military—especially in cases of divorce or separation—they gain a sense of security. I’ve seen this with some of our team members. They feel secure, knowing they have a company they love working for and don’t have to stay in a difficult personal situation.
As a military spouse, I can attest that many don’t have the independence or financial security to leave potentially toxic situations. I’ve seen several of our team members gain the strength to leave those environments, thanks to the support we provide.
Why should business owners be fully present with family?
With my business, I am 100% focused during work hours, just like any other entrepreneur. But when my kids are home, I’m fully present with them. I’m joking around with my husband and making the most of our family time. During work hours, I’m all in, and when it’s family time, I put my phone down and hide my laptop if needed to stay present.
When my seven-year-old was younger, I used to jump on emails, calls, and texts, missing moments I should have been fully present for. My biggest regret in building Squared Away is that, early on, my kids saw me more behind a screen than engaging with them directly.
*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.*
