Maybe it's not ????????, maybe it's YOU.

Hiring the right person or company can make or break your success, your business growth, your nerves.

Yes, yes. We all know that....

But what happens when every hire seems to turn sour? Now - before pointing fingers outward, perhaps it's time to take a hard look in the mirror.??

The Blame Game

If you go to hire someone or some company and they turn out to not be good… they probably weren’t good. It happens.

Sometimes, people aren't as good as they say. That's cool.

Now, imagine this scenario...

You've hired someone or a company for a task, and they fail to meet your expectations. Frustrated, you seek out another, only to encounter the same disappointing outcome. Repeat this cycle a few times, and it's easy to conclude that the issue lies with the incompetence of those you've hired. Or does it?

If one bad hire can be attributed to a fluke, what about multiple failed engagements??

If you find yourself continually dissatisfied with the individuals or companies you hire, think, "Could it be that your selection process is flawed, or worse, that you're the problem/asshole?"

Recognizing YOUR Part

This is very common in the digital marketing/SEO industry, but I assume it is problematic in many/most industries.

I don’t do a lot of client prospecting anymore… but when I did, a common thing prospects would say was:

“I worked with 7 million SEO agencies before, and none of them were any good!??”

At first, my reflex as an optimist was, “Great! This is my opportunity to shine!”??

After securing a few of those on retainer through the natural 20 I rolled on my charisma score (??)..... I quickly found out that the this was a huge red flag?? and that the issue was they were just difficult to work with or thought they knew better.

The Truth Hurts

We all want every business transaction to go well.

I’ve hired people and businesses that didn’t get me the results I wanted, and it sucked… (but I’ve NEVER had to try more than a couple before finding the right one...so there's that)

That being said, we need to be aware of our own shortcomings.

Take a hard look at how you select and interact with potential hires.

• Are your expectations realistic?
• Are you providing clear instructions and feedback?
• Are you open to collaboration, or do you insist on micromanaging every detail?

Your approach could be driving away competent professionals and attracting those who are less capable or willing to work with you.

Also, keep in mind the "Ego Factor"

Unfortunately, it’s the egotistical way a lot of us live our lives (particularly, I’ve observed in people who have had success in one area of their life… they think that means they are an authority on everything).

Acknowledge your own flaws and biases, and be willing to address them. Only then can you break free from the cycle of disappointment and start making better hiring decisions and really grow your business.

So, be critical when you hire. You deserve the best, but also be self-aware.