Hiring employees

Question

Just kind of curious on everyone's thought as to what it takes to find good dedicated employees that will show up perform quality work and stick around ? We're located in Minnesotas twin cities area what should starting pay be for lawn care employees&nbsp;

ldsewell · Answer

While I am just getting started in the home services business arena my experience recruiting, screening, hiring, leading and dealing with personnel is decades long.This is going to sound a bit harsh too - the problem isn't usually with finding good people but usually with bad company management that has no clue how to effectively deal with people.Leading people is in and of itself a specialized skillset. If one doesn't already have it that will need to be learned and developed like any other skill.Begin with looking at your own company through their eyes.See what you offer them through their lenses - and that will be eye-opening in and of itself when done honestly. So if you want better people - you have to have a better opportunity to offer.Then you need proper onboarding, orientation, training and daily leadership with accountability. Finally - to really knock it out of the park you need to offer some kind of performance pay incentive that rewards their additional hard work.Money is important. But so is how they are treated. Everyone wants to be respected and feel like they matter and are valued as Team Members. When you can make that happen, along with excellent compensation and high quality training and support - then you are on a whole different level.That's my two cents anyway, and I hope it helps.&nbsp;

prestonf · Answer

For the past 21 months, I've operated as a single member LLC with no employees.&nbsp; I've used many helpers as sub-contractors (W9).&nbsp; In July 2025 I will bring on my 24 year old son as a part time employee (W2) at $30 per hour.&nbsp; I have been paying helpers at these rates depending on experience and the tools they bring: $20, $25, $40, and $100.&nbsp; The pay is variable based on experience and other benefits they bring to the job.&nbsp; Honestly, the $100 per hour guy is my brother in law so that's not my normal rate.&nbsp; I'm a commercial and residential General Contractor who self-performs about 75% of the work with my own hands.&nbsp;I had a recent helper who asked for $30 an hour and at the end of the job I paid him $35 an hour because he was that efficient in helping me with a deck rehab.&nbsp; &nbsp;I think he was worth more and I plan to pay him $40 per hour on future jobs if we work together again.&nbsp; He's 70 by the way.&nbsp;I hope this thread will provide additional insight as I grow my business.&nbsp; Thank you for asking the question.&nbsp; &nbsp;I hope this helps you.&nbsp;

porschiac · Answer

I use indeed for finding employees and or any other social platforms. Interviewing is very important. I also use the work number to verify past employment. Finding understanding employees who sees or understands your vision and goals as a company is a must too when just starting.&nbsp;

abdymercado · Answer

You're hitting on a big challenge many local service businesses face: finding&nbsp;dedicated, reliable employees who take pride in their work and aren’t just showing up for a paycheck. Here’s a breakdown with both strategic insight.Hiring and keeping quality employees in the U.S. Cities requires more than just filling a position; it takes competitive pay, respect, growth opportunities, and consistent hours. Starting wages should range from&nbsp;$17$19hr for entry-level and up to $28hr for specialized roles. To retain good workers, build a positive crew culture, offer paths for advancement, ensure reliable hours, and provide regular feedback with performance-based bonuses. Paying under $17hr will lose you talent to easier, better-paying jobs.

prestonf · Answer

we are in the Nashville, TN area