Starting a business is thrilling. The vision, the passion, the endless possibilities! But there’s something important you need to watch out for: As an entrepreneur, it's easy to get swept up in the chase for bookings, the latest automation tools, or the ever-elusive profit margin. Let me tell you a secret, a truth I live by, and one that underpins every successful venture I’ve built, including my property management company, Kozy Getaways: People > Profits. Always.
If you’re wondering how to build a strong team as a new entrepreneur, then you're asking the right question. Too many business owners in the short-term rental industry - especially new ones - focus solely on the numbers, forgetting that the real magic, the sustainable growth, the heart of any thriving business, comes from the human beings who show up every day.
Recently, I was in Myrtle Beach and took some of my Kozy Getaways cleaning and inspection crew out to dinner. It wasn't a "business thing." We didn't talk strategy or review KPIs. We ate, we laughed, and we connected. Why? Because they matter. These are the people who show up rain or shine, who care about the guest experience even when no one’s watching. They are the ones on the ground, carrying the heart of this business when I’m not physically there. Without them, there is no business. It's a fundamental truth that often gets overlooked in the hustle.
Why Prioritizing People is Your Smartest Business Strategy
The best systems in the world, the most innovative tech, the most aggressive marketing campaigns - they can’t replace a team that feels seen, supported, and truly valued. As a new entrepreneur, you have the incredible opportunity to establish this foundation from day one. This isn't just about being "nice"; it's about building an unshakeable business. If I asked you, “What’s your company culture?” what would you say? Businesses with strong cultures often see significantly higher revenue growth and employee retention. It's proof that investing in your team pays dividends far beyond a monthly paycheck.
Cultivating Connection: How to Build a Strong Team as a New Entrepreneur
So, how to build a strong team as a new entrepreneur that embodies your vision and drives success? It starts with intentionality and consistent effort.
Know Their Names. Know Their Stories.
It sounds simple, yet it's profoundly impactful. Move beyond professional pleasantries. Ask about their lives, their families, their dreams. Remember significant details. When you show genuine interest, you're not just acknowledging an employee; you're recognizing a whole person. This human connection builds loyalty and trust far more effectively than any team-building exercise. For my Kozy Getaways crew, it’s knowing which of them has a child starting school or a specific hobby. It makes them feel like more than just a name on a schedule.
Say Thank You – With Your Time, Your Words, and Your Actions.
Appreciation is currency. Verbal thanks are essential, but actions speak louder. Spend time with your team, listening to their feedback and ideas. Celebrate their successes, big or small. In a business like property management, a guest's five-star review isn't just a win for the company; it's a win for the person who made that room spotless. Acknowledging that effort publicly reinforces their value and commitment. And yes, sometimes, a bonus, a gift card, or a surprise dinner out, like I did with my crew, goes a long way.
Foster a Culture of Support, Not Just Tasks
Your role as an entrepreneur is not just to delegate tasks but to cultivate an environment where your team feels empowered and safe to contribute. Encourage open communication. Provide the tools and training they need to excel. When challenges arise, stand with them, not just above them. This supportive culture is the bedrock of a truly strong team. It’s what allows my team to handle unexpected issues at a property with confidence and care, without having to wait for a command.
Lead by Example: Embody Your Values
Your team will mirror your behavior. If you prioritize integrity, hard work, and genuine care, they will too. Show up with positivity, resilience, and a commitment to your values. In the property management business, this means treating every property and guest with the same level of care you expect from your team. This authentic leadership inspires dedication and helps your team internalize the company ethos you want to instill in your business.
Remember, the strongest businesses aren’t just built on spreadsheets and profit projections. They’re built on robust, authentic relationships. They are built by people, for people. As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, make "People > Profits" your guiding star, and watch your business not just grow, but truly thrive.
Ready to build a business that not only succeeds but Lives BIG? My book, LIVE BIG, is an entrepreneur's playbook to "boss up" your business, show up for yourself, and step into your dream life. Grab your copy today and start building your legacy!