Need Advice on Integrating New Hire into Business

I’ve been operating my business for the past few years. I ‘ve done wholesale (restaurants and coffee shops), retail and some catering. I don’t have a storefront, so I rent a licensed kitchen. Over the past year and a half, I’ve been focused on being a caregiver for my mom and my brother. I’m now at a point of refocusing on growing my business and am considering hiring someone to help. Since having to shift my attention to family for a time, I haven’t done much marketing or much else to build my client base. I am currently concentrating my efforts on securing more wholesale and catering opportunities.

I met a woman several years ago, and I’m considering bringing her on as a baking assistant. She’s not currently in a financial position to become a business partner, and I’m not interested in that at this time. So, I am struggling to figure out how best to utilize her. Although I do plan for her to eventually work with me in the kitchen completing orders, packaging, etc., I’m not currently making the revenue to justify paying her a salary for production work. Initially I’d like to have her work with me to bring in more business. Since she and her husband owned a restaurant for a time, they have some contacts that might prove useful. I also learned that her husband is actively searching for another restaurant to purchase. If that comes through, it’s possible that we might be able to supply some or all of the desserts for that restaurant.

I’m also trying to figure out how much to pay her. I mentioned to her that we might explore a payment arrangement whereby I pay her a certain amount (or hourly rate) initially and a higher rate once I reach a certain level of business (resulting from our collective efforts). Another thought is to, perhaps, compensate her a certain percentage (commission) for bringing in business based on her contacts. I’d have to put some sort of cap on that though. I wouldn’t want to pay commission indefinitely on ongoing orders from new clients she brings in.

So, with all that said, what I need is advice on a) how to utilize this individual to help me grow my business, and b) a fair wage or payment structure for her.

I’m really looking forward to hearing your feedback and advice.

Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you, Jason. That's definitely something I'll consider!!

I'd love to hear additional suggestions.

Thank you.