What’s Your Highest Paid Employee?
Summary
- I once evaluated a company where the highest-paid employee earned $65,000 a year. This signaled to me that the company wasn't investing in talent.
- It's a big warning sign if you believe $65,000 is a high salary for a top position. Quality talent usually requires a bigger investment.
- When deciding to invest, I consider if there's a talent deficit in a company. This means assessing if we need to adjust salaries to attract and retain better talent.
- A company can maintain its current state without growth for a while with low investment in talent, but significant growth is unlikely.
- Some companies boast about having high margins, but it's often because they're underpaying workers and not investing in skilled professionals.
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How To Take Action
I would suggest implementing a few key strategies to ensure you're attracting and retaining the right talent. First, reassess your view on salaries. Understand that paying competitive wages is crucial in hiring skilled professionals. Research current market rates for roles in your industry to ensure you're offering fair compensation.
Next, consider where your business may have a talent deficit. Look at the roles where experience and expertise could significantly drive growth. It's okay to invest more in these areas because skilled employees can bring new ideas and efficiencies that help grow your business.
A good way to maximize your budget is to prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on hiring a few highly skilled employees rather than many lower-paid ones. This can be more effective and create a better long-term impact on your business success.
Additionally, invest in your current team's development. Offer training opportunities and professional development. You don't always need to hire new people; sometimes, upskilling your current team can bridge any talent gaps and boost morale.
Lastly, analyze your business margins. High margins might seem beneficial, but if they're due to underpaying staff, it won't be sustainable. Reinvest some profits into your staff, as investing in talent can lead to improved performance and growth, ultimately increasing your revenue. These small actions can lead to significant positive changes in your company's trajectory.