The Team Truth No One Talks About—Until It’s Too Late
Let’s talk about something we don’t say enough as entrepreneurs.
In a world where Instagram feeds are filled with curated perfection—dream clients, six-figure launches, laptop-on-the-beach moments—there’s a harsh reality behind the scenes that rarely gets talked about.
Never compare your garage to someone else’s front yard.
Because what looks picture-perfect from the outside might be struggling in silence behind the scenes.
Now, let’s talk about team.
I recently spent time with a fellow entrepreneur whose business has been quietly falling apart. Not because of a failed product. Not because of a lack of sales.
Because of the wrong team.
His words still echo in my mind: "I believe hiring the wrong people led to the downfall of my business."
And honestly? He’s not wrong. He continued...
“I have learned to be brutal with underperforming team members because they will be brutal with me when I can’t pay them." – D.N.
It’s hard to hear, especially for those of us who are naturally heart-led leaders. We want to see the best in people and hope they’ll grow into the role. We’re afraid to let someone go because we know what that paycheck might mean to them.
But keeping someone on your team when they’re not a fit? That’s not kindness. That’s compromise.
The Cost of the Wrong Team
In my experience building the VA agency, I’ve seen firsthand how a single person can either build or break a business. You should never allow your income to be directly tied to one team member’s performance.
Because the moment they stop showing up, your business starts crumbling.
Hiring slow and firing fast isn’t just a saying—it’s survival.
You need systems. You need redundancy. And you need a team that amplifies your vision, not drains it.
At Digital Marketing on Demand, we learned this the hard way.
There were seasons we kept team members far longer than we should have because we were hopeful. We believed in their potential. But in business, potential doesn't pay the bills—performance does.
So we became brutally honest with our hiring process. We started being crystal clear about expectations. And we built a culture that values excellence, accountability, and alignment.
That shift changed everything. It allowed us to grow, to serve better, and to protect the peace and results of our clients.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Missed deadlines with no accountability
Constant excuses or shifting blame
Lack of initiative or ownership
Resistance to feedback or coaching
And the Green Flags That Tell You, "This Is the One"
Proactive problem-solving
Clear, honest communication
Consistent delivery and follow-through
Alignment with your values and long-term vision
Here’s the Real Truth
Sometimes, the most loving thing you can do for your business—and for someone on your team—is to let go. Because when you protect your business, you protect your clients, your impact, and your peace.
We’re living in uncertain times, and you need the right people beside you. Not just for now, but for what’s next.
If you're ready to build a team that you can trust—one that shows up, delivers, and truly gets your vision—we can help.
At Digital Marketing on Demand, we specialize in pairing entrepreneurs with vetted, high-performing tech VAs who are trained to execute, communicate, and support your growth.
If you're ready to stop guessing and start building a dream team that actually works, book a call with us to see how we can support you.
