What Does It Really Cost to Hire Admin Support? (and Why It’s Worth It)
As a business owner, you’ve probably wrestled with the question: Is it time to hire help? And if so, what kind of help actually makes sense?
In the latest episode of Lift the Gate, Lift Business Resources CEO Katie Santoro sits down with Bobby Gibson, our Business Development Manager, to talk honestly about the real costs, benefits, and trade-offs involved in hiring admin support.
Whether you’re considering hiring in-house, bringing on a freelancer, or outsourcing offshore, this conversation is full of candid insights to help you make an informed decision.
The Hidden Costs of Doing It All Yourself
Many business owners wait too long to hire help, often because they’re focused solely on the dollar amount. But as Katie and Bobby explain, the hidden costs of not hiring support are just as real. Burnout, missed opportunities, and poor client follow-through all add up over time.
"It’s not just about what you pay an assistant," Bobby says. "It’s about what it costs you not to have one."
The truth? Trying to do it all yourself can actually be more expensive in the long run.
Comparing the Options: In-House, Freelance, Offshore
Katie and Bobby break down the pros and cons of three common types of admin support:
In-House: More control and consistency, but a higher cost burden with salary, benefits, and overhead.
Freelance: Flexible and skilled, but often task-focused with less day-to-day availability.
Offshore: Budget-friendly, but with potential trade-offs in time zones, communication, and integration.
The key? Choose the option that aligns with your goals, not just your budget.
Why Strategic Support Matters
What most people don’t realize is that the right admin support does more than just check boxes. A proactive assistant can anticipate needs, build systems, and free up time so you can focus on what matters most.
Katie shares how her own executive assistant became a strategic thought partner and why weekly check-ins and clear expectations are game changers.
Business Development Meets Admin Support
From her perspective in business development, Bobby emphasizes how foundational admin support is to client success.
"Admin support touches everything, from first impressions to long-term relationships. If you're not organized internally, it shows externally."
That’s why hiring isn’t just a tactical decision, it’s a strategic investment.
Thinking About Hiring Support?
If you’ve been on the fence about whether it’s time to bring in help, this episode is a must-watch. You’ll walk away with a clearer sense of:
What kind of support you actually need
How to evaluate the true cost
Why timing and structure matter
Watch the full episode of Lift the Gate with Katie and Bobby.
And if you’re ready to explore working with a skilled, strategic assistant through Lift, book a FREE discovery call today.
