We recently connected with Elizabeth McGee and have shared our conversation below.

Elizabeth, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

As the CEO of a thriving staffing firm, I am often asked about the journey from ideation to execution. Starting a staffing firm is a rewarding but challenging endeavor that requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving job market. In this interview, I’ll share insights into the key steps and considerations that shaped our success.

This story of starting Workforce Management happened because of corporate American and being let go from an organization that I worked with for over seventeen years. Since I already had relationships, I skipped to step two and developed a plan however, step one was critical in the success of WFM.

1. Establishing Strong Partnerships (Strategize):

Networking is key in the staffing industry. Cultivate strong relationships with businesses, educational institutions, and industry associations. Building a network of trusted partners can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and enhance your firm’s credibility in the market. For more than 20 years ago, I had established some trusted clients who easily wanted to partner with me and the new firm.

2. Develop a Plan

Writing a formal business plan is an exponential marker in how to proceed in executing your plan of attack in business. It is a detail process on all the important variables you need to accomplish in mapping out a successful path. Part of the business plan was having 10 verbal commitments to work with Workforce Management and allocate a rough financial estimate with these partnerships.

3. Execution

Identifying actionable steps in the process from start to completion and turning your vision into reality.

Breaking down the overall business plan into actionable and manageable steps. Develop a detailed strategic implementation plan that includes timelines, milestones, and fulfillment requirements.

Prioritize tasks based on their impact on the overall goals of the staffing firm.

4. World Class Service/Experience

Providing an exceptional experience for both clients and candidates is at the heart of a successful staffing firm. Develop personalized strategies to understand the unique needs of your clients and candidates. Delivering outstanding service fosters trust, builds long-term relationships, and generates positive word-of-mouth referrals.

5. Continuous Improvement:

The staffing industry is dynamic, and continuous improvement is essential for sustained success. Regularly assess your processes, seek feedback from clients and candidates, and adapt to changes in the market. Embrace a culture of innovation and always be on the lookout for new trends and opportunities.

Stay agile, continuously learn, and be resilient in the face of challenges to build a successful and enduring staffing firm.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

When moving from Maryland to Colorado, I found my new career in staffing as a Recruiting more than twenty years ago.

Caring:

I genuinely care about being attentive to the needs and feelings of those around me and taking actions to contribute positively to their well-being. This includes creating a positive and supportive work culture, fostering open communication, and ensuring the overall health and happiness of the team. This is also evident in how we treat each candidate. We understand they are in a vulnerable state when seeking a new career, pressure in being a provider for their families, and exterior circumstances that fuels their decision making.
Whether it is finding a new career for our associates or assisting our clients with their next dynamic employee, we want to make a difference in their lives.

Passionate:

It is the driving force behind a person’s commitment, dedication, and pursuit of their interests or goals. Passion fuels motivation, creativity, and a willingness to invest time and effort into areas that resonate with one’s values and aspirations. I have been often characterized by my energy, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Competitive:

No one is going to work harder for you than WFM! Competitiveness involves a strong desire to excel, outperform, or succeed in various endeavors. It is a drive to achieve goals, surpass benchmarks, and continuously improve. We inspire each other to push our limits, find innovative solutions, and strive for excellence. This energy in our office leads to increased efficiency, improved services, and overall organizational growth.

Kindness/Compassionate:

Kindness and compassion are crucial for the WFM team in building strong relationships with employees, clients, and partners. A compassionate leader understands the needs and challenges of others, fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace. Kindness extends beyond the boardroom, influencing decision-making that considers the impact on various individuals.

5. Disciplined:

To persevere in business, you must be disciplined. It takes strong organizational skills, time management, and an ability to prioritize effectively. My goals are clear, and I work systematically towards achieving them. Disciplined leadership ensures that the company operates efficiently, minimizes risks, and adheres to ethical and legal standards.

6. Determination:

Determination is the unwavering commitment to achieving long-term goals, even in the face of challenges. I show my team, perseverance through setbacks, inspires resilience in the team, and stays focused on the strategic vision. This trait is crucial for navigating the complexities of the business world and driving the company towards sustained success.

7. God

While this answer may seem trivial to some, it is the foundation of who I am as an individual. Without prayer every day and God’s blessings, I wouldn’t have the strength to endure all the challenges and WFM would not be successful.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Commitment to Quality: From the beginning, we’ve made a conscious effort to deliver products/services of the highest quality. This commitment has been a cornerstone of our reputation. Consistently meeting or exceeding customer expectations has helped build trust in our brand.

Customer-Centric Approach:
Our customer-centric approach has played a pivotal role. We listen to our customers, understand their needs, and strive to provide solutions that not only meet but exceed their expectations. Positive customer experiences are powerful contributors to our reputation.

Innovation and Adaptability:
In a rapidly evolving market, innovation is key. We’ve invested in staying ahead of trends, adopting new technologies, and adapting our strategies to meet changing customer demands. This has positioned us as a forward-thinking company, contributing to our positive reputation.

Transparency and Integrity:
Building trust requires transparency and integrity. We’ve always been open and honest in our communications, whether it’s with customers, partners, or stakeholders. Upholding high ethical standards has been fundamental to our reputation.

Employee Satisfaction:
A positive internal culture reflects externally. Our team is at the heart of our success, and ensuring their satisfaction and professional growth has translated into better service and, ultimately, a positive reputation in the market.

Community Engagement:
Engaging with our community has been a priority. Whether through local initiatives or online platforms, we actively participate in and contribute to our community. This not only builds a positive image but also strengthens our relationships. Plus, this is a great feeling to help others along the way.

Strategic Communication:
Effective communication is crucial. Clear and consistent messaging, both internally and externally, has helped in shaping a strong brand identity. This strategic communication has played a role in how our company is perceived within the market.

Adaptability to Feedback:
We value feedback immensely. Actively seeking and responding to customer feedback has been a continuous process. Being open to improvement and making necessary changes based on feedback has positively impacted our reputation.

Industry Thought Leadership:
Establishing ourselves as thought leaders in our industry has been a strategic initiative. Sharing insights, knowledge, and expertise through various channels has positioned us as industry leaders, contributing to our positive market reputation.

Consistent Branding:
Maintaining a consistent and recognizable brand has been essential. From visual identity to messaging, we ensure that our brand is cohesive and represents the values that our customers and partners associate with our company.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

None that I have had the time to read, see, or listen to however, I can offer you my personal advice.

1. Work hard

2. Stay focused (allocate work time for work!) My work schedule is from 6am – 9pm most workdays and some over the weekend. There aren’t any lunch breaks (5-10 minutes to eat) unless it is a new client, securing/cultivating a relationship, or needing to connect with an existing client however, lunch out is rare. Interruptions will occur however, keep personal things until after your work schedule.

3. Have the traits and develop a plan that I mentioned previously. Be driven to be the best!

4. Faith (maybe one of the most overlooked attributes you will need this in starting and operating your own company).

Contact Info:

• Website: www.wfmgmt.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wfmgmt
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-mcgee-5b38b241/

Image Credits
Truss Builder on table Daniel Moreno won the WFM Mac McGee scholarship. Workforce Management was Best of Colorado Springs 2023 Employment Agency Gabriela Garcia and Elizabeth McGee during a fun training moment Elizabeth McGee won Most Inspiring Entrepeneur of 2023 (picture of article) Elizabeth McGee won top 10 Woman Entrepeneur of 2022 (picture of article)