The saying “bigger is better” often drives entrepreneurship. This can be true and yet it can often also drive business owners to feel pressured to grow, expand, and hire more employees than they actually want. But how many employees do you need to consider your business successful? Is it necessary to have a team of 10, 20, or even 100 people to validate your efforts? How do you know when to be satisfied with a limited workforce? This question is crucial for many small business owners. We explored this topic with financial adviser Jeff Schwartz, owner of Pacific Advisors in Bakersfield, during a recent episode of Small Business Celebration.
The Mindset Shift: Quality Over Quantity
Jeff’s insights emphasize how success in business doesn’t always correlate with the size of your team. Many entrepreneurs start with just one or two employees and thrive. On the flip side, others feel compelled to hire more, sometimes out of societal or industry pressure. For some, having a limited workforce is not just a necessity but a choice allowing for greater flexibility and control.
“Some people just aren’t built for a larger team,” Jeff explains. Each business owner must assess their comfort level and define what success looks like for them. The journey varies. Some may be content with a small team allowing for close collaboration and direct oversight. Others may yearn for expansion. The key is understanding your own business dynamics and what you want to achieve.

The Importance of Sustainable Growth
Growth is often equated with success. However, Jeff highlights how essential it is to push yourself just enough to stay viable without overwhelming your operations. “You should always be pushing just a little bit,” he advises, encouraging owners to explore opportunities for growth at a comfortable pace. This doesn’t mean racing from a team of 2 to 100 overnight, but rather taking measured steps to align with your business vision.
Embracing Your Unique Business Model
Every business has different needs and goals. For instance, if you’ve found a model that works well with a small team—perhaps it allows for personalized service or deeper relationships with clients—there’s no shame in maintaining that structure. In fact, focusing on quality and efficient operations can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Moreover, many small business owners report feeling overwhelmed by the complexities associated with a larger workforce. These stressors can include management challenges, higher payroll costs, and the intricacies of team dynamics. By keeping your team small, you might find you have more time to focus on other necessary aspects. These man include strategy, creativity, and ultimately, the aspects of your business which brought you joy in the first place.
Balancing Employee Count and Business Stability
For those feeling the weight of societal expectations to grow, Jeff offers a refreshing perspective: success isn’t solely measured by employee count. Instead, it’s about achieving a sustainable balance allowing you to meet your personal and business goals. “It’s not all about money,” he emphasizes. Success can also be defined by the positive impact you have on your community, the fulfillment you derive from your work, and how you choose to lead your life outside of business.
Encouragement for Struggling Business Owners
As many businesses navigate tough times, Jeff’s words serve as encouragement. It is important to remember how success can take many forms. If you’re running a business that provides for your family and allows you to contribute positively to your community, you are successful—regardless of the number of employees on your payroll.
While growth is often celebrated in the business world, it’s essential to assess your own goals and comfort levels. A limited workforce can still yield a successful, fulfilling business if it aligns with your vision and values. Trust your instincts and remember that sometimes, less truly is more.
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Reach out to our guest’s website: Kern Advisors
Check out his interview HERE