Karen May: Finding Success with Grace in the Trades

Prioritize sustainable growth over rapid expansion to maintain quality service and employee well-being, as a smaller, well-managed company can be more profitable than a larger, overextended one.

Invest in cross-training your technicians in both installation and service roles to create a versatile workforce that can adapt to fluctuating demands and maintain full employment.

Cultivate strong relationships with industry peers and mentors; these connections provide invaluable support and advice when navigating business challenges.

Recognize and address the emotional burden of entrepreneurship; giving yourself grace and acknowledging personal challenges is crucial for long-term resilience and effective leadership.

Focus on what you can control, such as employee development and customer satisfaction, rather than getting bogged down by external industry shifts or political changes.

The trades industry requires business owners to often act as 'unlicensed therapists' for both employees and customers, necessitating strong emotional intelligence and communication skills.