Getting the right help – How to free your time and grow your business

Every owner-managed business I have worked with shares the same challenge: too much to do, not enough time, and far too much of the business depending on one person usually the founder.

If you’re honest, you know the solution is not working longer hours. It’s finding the right people and building the structure that allows your business to run without you.

Last week, we talked about carving out two precious hours every week to reset and plan. Today, we’re going to look at the next step: getting the right help in your business.

Start with what you already have

Before you look outside, think about your existing team. Is there someone junior with the potential to grow? One of the recruitment strategies we’ve used at A4G over the years is to hire straight out of school, then train and develop staff internally.

It’s not just about freeing your own time. It’s an opportunity for someone else to gain experience and take responsibility. Watching a trainee or junior employee grow into a role of influence is one of the most fulfilling aspects of running a business.

Even if you need to invest time teaching and supporting them at first, the payoff is enormous. A confident, capable team member can take a huge chunk off your plate, allowing you to focus on the work only you can do.

When a personal assistant makes sense

Sometimes, internal talent alone isn’t enough. A personal assistant could be the solution, someone to manage your diary, handle admin, and take routine tasks off your hands.

The right PA can transform your working week. They handle life admin, coordinate schedules, and even learn the specifics of your industry. If you’re ready to earn the income your business deserves without being bogged down in day-to-day tasks, a PA is worth considering.

Think about whether you need them full-time or part-time. Flexible hours appeal to highly capable people who may need to work around family or personal commitments. Being competitive with your offer is key, you’ll attract the best candidates.

Look beyond your office

If full-time support isn’t feasible in-house, offshore staffing can be a game-changer. We operate a company called Durban Offshoring, providing highly qualified staff from South Africa to our practice and clients.

Why Durban? The talent pool is exceptional. English is widely spoken, the time difference is minimal, and salaries are usually around 60% of UK rates without national insurance costs. For many businesses, this is a highly effective way to get skilled support without breaking the bank.

If you’re curious, I’m happy to share more details. Just drop me a message on LinkedIn or email me at malcolm@durbanoffshoring.co.uk.

Temporary or student support

You don’t always need a permanent hire. Many business owners find value in short-term placements, particularly with university students studying business or related fields.

A student on a year-long placement can bring fresh ideas, energy, and focus. They’re motivated to succeed because their dissertation or future job prospects depend on the experience you provide. Temporary doesn’t mean low impact, it can be a win-win for both sides.

Family and friends – handle with care

The most common “help” I see is employing family or friends. There are advantages, you know them, their strengths, and their loyalty, but it comes with baggage.

Relationships change when you mix friendship and business. One client told me that hiring his daughter, despite her doing an excellent job, left him feeling like her PA. Another example: one of my friends hasn’t spoken to the best man at his wedding for 30 years after offering him a job.

Be mindful. Loyalty and familiarity are valuable, but clarity on roles and expectations is essential from day one.

Maximise what you already have

Lastly, don’t forget your existing staff. Not everyone will grumble about new responsibilities. Some are ambitious and eager to learn. Guiding these employees to take on more responsibility is not just delegation, it’s building capability and resilience into your business.

Even small steps like giving a junior team member supervision responsibilities can free your time while preparing your business for the future.

Make it work

Whatever approach you take internal talent, a personal assistant, offshore staff, students, or even family you must set clear expectations from day one. Clarity prevents misunderstandings, ensures accountability, and allows the business to function smoothly without constant input from you.

Getting the right help isn’t just about freeing your own time. It’s about building a business that can grow, adapt, and succeed even when you step back.