Katie Godfrey: Navigating the highs & lows of hiring

Hiring your first team member is one of the biggest milestones in growing your business. It's exciting, empowering and a clear sign that things are heading in the right direction. But what most salon owners don't talk about, until they're deep in it, is how hard team building really is.

Behind the scenes of many salons and clinics are business owners silently struggling with staff-related stress, toxic culture and even betrayal. And if you're feeling that too, trust me, you're not alone.

The team dream vs. reality

We often start by thinking: “If I just get the right people, everything will be easier.” But managing people is a full-time job in itself. Building a team is not just about hiring for skills, it's about building a culture that supports, protects and elevates your brand.

Here's what I've learnt (the hard way) after nearly two decades in business:

1. One bad hire can cost you more than you think

Just one toxic staff member can impact your whole culture, from gossiping and drama to poaching clients or even causing other team members to leave. It doesn't matter how talented they are; if they don't align with your values, it's not worth it.

Tip: Hire slowly. Trust your gut. If something feels off during the trial, act early. And always, always have clear contracts in place from day one.

Salon culture isn't your logo, your Instagram feed, or even your fancy décor. It's how your team behaves when you're not in the room.

Are they professional? Do they support each other? Do they respect boundaries? If not, it's time to look at your own leadership. Your energy, your expectations and your ability to set the tone matters more than you think.

3. You need systems to protect yourself

From gross misconduct policies to social media boundaries, Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) to GDPR (data protection) training, your systems protect both your business and your peace of mind. We've all heard horror stories: staff using client data, setting up shop nearby or spreading damaging rumours.

4. You will get hurt. And you will heal

Let's be real. When a staff member you've trained, supported and trusted betrays you, it cuts deep. I've had moments where I felt like giving up, when rumours, toxic teams and constant fire-fighting took a toll on my mental health.

But here's what I know now, you can come back stronger. The hard times teach you how to lead like a CEO, not just a beauty professional.

Tip: Don't isolate yourself. Surround yourself with mentors, coaches or mastermind groups who understand what it's really like.

5. There are good people out there

For every difficult team member, there's someone amazing, loyal, hard-working and aligned with your mission. When you build a strong foundation, those people will come. And when they do, your business becomes unstoppable.

Team building isn't just about delegation, it's about leadership, boundaries and emotional resilience. You'll get it wrong. You'll learn. And eventually, you'll build a team that not only drives revenue but lifts your brand to new heights.

So, if you're navigating the highs and lows of hiring, remember, it's all part of the process. And you're not doing it alone.

If you need help and support with building your team, you can read my book Get Off The Tools, listen to my podcast “The Life Of KG” or just reach out; always happy to chat!

Katie Godfrey is a business strategist and founder of KG Business Mentor, helping salon owners, clinics and training academies grow their business, increase revenue and build more freedom.  

www.kgbusinessmentor.com

www.instagram.com/kg_katiegodfrey