How do you keep your team engaged and your business growing when raises are frozen, bonuses are gone, and the market is uncertain?
In this episode, Leslie Vickrey, CEO and Founder of ClearEdge Marketing, shares exactly how leadership transparency, strategic team investments, and client-focused agility can drive long-term growth — even when business is flat.
Leslie explains:
“When the market is tough, a lot of people haven’t had pay increases in a couple of years. They haven’t seen the bonuses that they were used to seeing. They’re kind of in fear of what’s happening from a pay standpoint. And when the market starts to turn, if they don’t see a quick turn within their company, you’re at risk of losing them.”
We discuss practical strategies like:
✅ How to retain your best people when budgets are tight
✅ Why transparency builds trust (and how to avoid damaging it)
✅ How to rethink hiring through fractional talent and new service models
✅ Leveraging AI and new delivery methods to stay competitive
✅ Preparing your team for growth before the market rebounds
As Leslie puts it: “You want them to absolutely believe in you and believe what you say to them. And that’s why for me, leading with trust and transparency is so key.”
This episode is a must-watch for CEOs, founders, and business leaders navigating volatile markets while trying to keep their teams motivated and their growth plans alive.
