150 Employees and Acquiring a Business with Jason Cromley of Hidden Creek

Prioritize passion when adding new services: Don't expand into areas you're not passionate about, as client expectations demand genuine engagement for success and profitability.

Dare to be different and innovate: Continuously seek ways to differentiate your business from competitors, whether through unique materials, advanced design, or superior customer experience, to avoid commoditization.

Strategic acquisitions can accelerate growth: Acquiring an established company with a strong reputation and backlog, rather than starting a new division from scratch, can provide immediate revenue and expertise, especially for complex services like pool installation.

Leverage 'gateway' services to expand projects: Identify services that naturally lead to larger projects (e.g., pools leading to patios, outdoor kitchens, landscaping) to maximize project scope and client value.

Implement structured operating systems: Utilize frameworks like EOS to organize your business, define roles, and create clear accountability, moving beyond a 'contractor-only' mindset for sustainable growth.

Invest in non-labor producing roles early: Hiring designers, administrative staff, and project managers can free up owners to focus on strategic growth and improve overall efficiency, even if these roles don't directly produce billable labor.

Prioritize employee well-being and benefits: Offering comprehensive benefits, a positive work environment, and growth opportunities not only attracts talent but also serves as a strong foundation for retention and employee loyalty.