Building Your Team in the Bow Valley: Why Your Business Is Only as Strong as Your People
When you live and work in a small, tight-knit community like Banff or Canmore, the team you build around your business isn’t just a group of employees, it’s a reflection of your values, your leadership, and the inclusive culture you want to foster. Whether you're launching a new venture or growing a seasonal business, understanding how to build and retain the right team is essential.
At the Bow Valley Pride Network, we hear time and again from entrepreneurs who say their greatest asset is their people. We’ll explore the importance of building a well-rounded team, cultivating a healthy workplace culture, and developing your own leadership skills, all through the lens of living and working in a unique and beautiful part of Alberta.
Surround Yourself With Complementary Strengths
In small businesses, it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing it all. But successful entrepreneurs know that you can’t do everything well, and you shouldn’t try to. Instead, build a founding team that complements your strengths. If you're great at creative vision but struggle with operations, look for someone who thrives in that area. If you’re detail-oriented but hate sales, find a partner who’s a natural communicator.
Venture capitalists often prefer to invest in strong teams over strong ideas. Why? Because ideas evolve, but it’s a great team that can adapt, problem-solve, and drive success over the long term.
From Mentors to Management Boards: Build Your Support Circle
Team building goes beyond hiring. You’ll want to develop a web of support that includes:
Advisory Boards: Professionals who provide high-level advice on strategy and challenges.
Mentors: Experienced entrepreneurs or industry veterans who offer guidance, connection, and feedback.
Professional Advisors: Accountants, lawyers, and consultants who can help you navigate everything from finances to risk management.
Living in the Bow Valley can sometimes feel isolating from larger business networks, but it also presents unique opportunities for authentic connection. Tap into the Bow Valley Chambers of Commerce, the Bow Valley Pride Network, or the SMARTstart program to build these connections.
Hire with Intention
Hiring can be one of the most expensive and rewarding decisions you'll make. Think beyond the job description. Consider:
Can you afford a full-time employee, or would a contractor or seasonal hire be a better fit?
Does this person align with your business’s values and the culture you want to create?
Are they bringing something new to the table?
Be honest about your expectations, offer fair compensation, and focus on transparency throughout the hiring process. Consider resources like Canada’s Job Bank, the Job Resource Centre or local job fairs, and make diversity and inclusion part of your recruitment strategy.
Leadership, Culture, and Employee Retention
Small businesses often mean working in close quarters (sometimes literally). In a place like Banff, word travels fast, and your company culture can be your best marketing asset.
Great leaders aren’t just task managers; they’re mentors, communicators, and champions of their team’s growth. The GoForth curriculum within the SMARTstart program emphasizes five core leadership skills: empathy, decisiveness, collaboration, planning, and support. These are especially important in a small business environment where change is frequent, and every team member wears multiple hats.
Celebrate wins, provide regular feedback, and invest in your team’s growth. When your team feels seen and valued, they’re far more likely to stay, even when they could be making more at a larger employer.
Get Support Through SMARTstart
If you’re a 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneur in the Bow Valley looking to start or scale your business, the SMARTstart Program offers structured support, peer connection, and access to mentorship. Whether you're building your first team or navigating what it means to be an inclusive employer, SMARTstart can help you build the skills and support network you need.
Learn more or sign up today at pridenetwork.ca/smartstart
Follow us on LinkedIn to keep up with resources, workshops, and stories from other business leaders in the Bow Valley: Bow Valley Pride Network
Let’s build stronger, more inclusive teams — together.
