From the rapid rise of new technologies like generative AI to changing employee expectations and a shifting compliance landscape, small businesses continue to seek opportunities to thrive amid an ever-changing environment. In pursuit of that passion and in honor of National Small Business Week, ADP shares insights gained from nearly 18,000 small businesses across the U.S. as a result of ADP’s Grit & Wisdom Contest, which invited small business owners to share their best strategies for success to empower fellow entrepreneurs. ADP experts additionally weigh in with unique perspectives on how to navigate forward.
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See the top advice small business owners shared
Small businesses share their advice:
From the nearly 18,000 small businesses that shared their top advice, several key themes emerged for driving small business success:
- Success is a journey that requires patience and persistence: Small business owners noted how important it is to be open to new ideas, even if those ideas don’t work right away. To stay ahead, they stressed the ability to embrace change, be adaptable, learn from mistakes and continuously innovate.
- The strength of a good team powers growth: Small businesses emphasized that how you treat your employees and the culture you create are powerful tools in inspiring and elevating those around you. They encouraged peers to lead by example and motivate employees to be curious, since it often leads to fresh ideas and improved practices.
- Small businesses have a distinct mindset: Small business owners know the journey comes with long hours and unexpected challenges. However, sentiment analysis revealed that love and enjoyment were the top emotions expressed in the advice shared. These emotions help sustain owners and translate into stronger customer relationships and team morale, driving long-term business success.
ADP talent, compliance and tech experts provide added insight:
- Get creative with benefits to attract talent: “For small businesses competing for talent, a comprehensive benefits strategy can help,” said Tina Wang, division vice president of human resources at ADP. “There are more options now for small businesses to offer competitive benefits while still managing costs, and benefits can go a long way in making employees feel valued. Focus on high-impact benefits, from medical to retirement benefits, and prioritize education – recent ADP research shows that employees who better understand their benefits are more likely to value and stay with their employer. They’re seeing and appreciating the investment their organization is making in them.”
- Learning and development are catalysts for growth: “Learning and development are true growth engines for small businesses,” said Jason Delserro, chief talent acquisition officer at ADP. “Creating clear pathways for employees to grow within your company is more essential than ever. Focus on critical skills and practical experience—not just formal credentials—and invest in on-the-job learning through training and stretch assignments. Small businesses have a unique edge: the ability to expose employees to multiple areas of the business. Define what you’re looking for in a candidate, but also envision how they can evolve with your business in the years ahead.”
- Stay on top of evolving compliance needs: “With the compliance landscape continuously changing, it’s important for small businesses to monitor for changes,” said Meryl Gutterman, senior counsel at ADP. “From minimum wage and salary threshold changes to pay transparency and paid leave laws, there may be federal or state-level changes that require action to remain compliant.”
- Technology can help enable human potential: “As technology continues to evolve, small business owners are embracing tools that streamline operations — but not at the expense of human connection,” said Brooke Hatcher, chief product officer at ADP. “They want smart, intuitive solutions that save time and reduce complexity, while still giving them access to real experts who understand their needs. It’s about creating a support system that combines innovation with personal guidance from trusted advisors, so they can focus on growing their business.”
For additional insight and resources, visit adp.com/gritandwisdom.
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