Ben Stroup

It was one year ago today that I started working with Vicki Shapiro as my assistant.

I remember leaving my accountant’s office. We had discussed my need for an assistant, what would be my first hire. I knew how much I could spend, but I was terrified.

• Where would I find this person?
• What if it didn’t work out?
• What if business tanked, and I suddenly couldn’t afford to pay an assistant?

I happened to have a phone call with my friend, Bryan Miles. He was asking about my business as good friends do. I told him about my recent decision to hire an assistant. He then told me about a new business that he and Shannon were starting called Miles Advisory Group. And a few days later I became MAG’s first client. (It was the only time – technically – that Bryan could use that sales technique.)

Vicki is amazing. I doubt I could have someone of her caliber on my own. If I had, I’m sure I wouldn’t have been able to afford her. She is bright, intelligent, quick to learn, pays careful attention to detail, incredibly responsive, and is proactive. I trust her not only to coordinate details but also interact with clients and prospects. I regularly get compliments on her work ethic and attitude.

We started at 5 hours a week and have made two increases over the past 12 months. It won’t be long before we make yet another increase in hours. It’s hard for me to imagine my daily workflow without Vicki. She helps me stay focused on the things only I can do which increases my productivity and allows me to continue to grow the business.

I can honestly say that choosing to hire Vicki through Miles Advisory Group is one of the best business decisions I’ve made in the past year.

Have you made a decision in the last year that has had a significant impact on your business? What was it, and how has it changed things for you?

Ben Stroup is a content activist in a post-paragraph world. He is chief broker of opportunity at Ben Stroup Enterprises. Connect with Ben via email, Twitter, and Google+. Subscribe via email to learn how to use content to move people to action.