SCORE: Practical Employee Development That Sticks for Businesses

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Most small businesses do not struggle because employees do not care. They struggle because hiring is rushed, onboarding is unclear, and expectations live in the owner’s head. That is where frustration and rework begin.

This workshop presents a practical approach to employee development that begins on day one. We will cover how to hire for values and walk through a simple orientation plan that gives a new hire the best chance of success in the first two weeks. 

This session is designed for startups and small teams, including owners hiring their first employee or working with contractors. You will leave with a simple first-hire plan and an onboarding framework you can apply immediately.

The following will be covered:

  • How to hire for values so culture is built on purpose, not by accident

  • How to define role ownership so work doesn't bounce back to the owner

  • Interview questions that reveal values, initiative, and real fit

  • A simple Week 1 and Week 2 onboarding plan to help a new hire succeed

  • How to set clear expectations that are measurable and fair

  • A weekly check-in rhythm that improves follow-through without creating drama

  • How leadership, people, and systems fit together, and what to strengthen next

Before you attend, write down:

  • One situation in your business where work keeps slipping or repeating

  • One role you rely on or plan to hire next, even if that role is a contractor today

Bring those two notes with you. During the workshop, you can use them to clarify what the role should own, what “good” looks like, and what your first two weeks of onboarding should include to give the person a real chance to succeed.

If you would like, email Domenic (domenic.chiarella@scorevolunteer.org) your question in advance, and he will try to weave a few real-world scenarios into the discussion.

Domenic A. Chiarella is an entrepreneur, systems expert, author, and SCORE Mentor. Over five decades, he built, managed, and sold four multimillion-dollar service businesses. His work has focused on helping teams perform at a high level through clear roles, strong leadership habits, and practical systems that reduce chaos and improve follow-through. Today, he volunteers his experience through SCORE by mentoring business owners and leading workshops that help startups and small businesses hire well, onboard well, and grow with clarity. He is the author of Tomato Paste Leadership, a book about building a business that supports both profit and life.

Click here to register.