Been flying solo for years but finally hit the point where I need help. Problem is my cash flow still feels unpredictable some months.
Looking at maybe bringing someone on part-time first, but honestly not sure how other solo folks made that jump without breaking the bank.
I just started paying my neighbor’s kid to help with deliveries and pickups. Keeps costs low and flexible.
Consider starting with project-based help instead of ongoing part-time. This way you only pay when you actually have the work to justify it.
I’d look for:
Another approach is to partner with another solo person. You can refer overflow work to each other when things get busy. No commitment but you both benefit when workload spikes.
Before hiring anyone though, track your income for at least 3 months. Figure out your absolute minimum monthly expenses plus a buffer. Only hire when you’re consistently above that number.
Also raise your rates first. Seriously. Most of us undercharge and then wonder why we can’t afford help. Sometimes the solution isn’t cheaper labor but better pricing.
Pay someone per job instead of by the hour. This keeps labor costs tied to your revenue.
I did this when my income was unpredictable. I found someone looking for extra cash and paid a flat rate for each job completed. When I had more work, he got paid more. During slow times, he didn’t expect a paycheck.
This approach reduces the risk of paying for hours when business is slow.
Figure out your slowest month’s income from last year and plan around that number. That’s your baseline.
I hired my first guy when I could cover his wages for three months even if work dried up completely. Kept that safety net in a separate account.
Start them at 20 hours a week max. You can always add hours but cutting someone back creates problems. Make sure they understand the work fluctuates.
Don’t hire someone who needs full time income right away. Find people who want extra work, not people who need to pay rent with what you give them.
Started with family help before paying anyone real money