Get All Access for $5/mo

Barbara Corcoran Asks These 3 Questions Before Hiring Someone New — and It's a Great Lesson in Leadership The "Shark Tank" star says she always asks the same questions.

By Emily Rella Edited by Melissa Malamut

Key Takeaways

  • Barbara Corcoran says good bosses are "control freaks," but it is important to learn to let go so your business can grow.
  • She says when hiring new employees, find someone who can do the job about 80% as well as you do it — then invest in them.

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Corcoran Group founder and "Shark Tank" star Barbara Corcoran knows how to run a tight ship — but she also knows when to relinquish control.

The 75-year-old real estate pioneer and entrepreneur took to Instagram on Wednesday to share advice on hiring and delegating.

Related: Barbara Corcoran: All 'Really Successful Entrepreneurs' Do This

First, she says, embrace your inner "control freak" — it's part of the job.

"Anybody who's a good boss, I've learned, is a control freak. It just comes with the territory, and control freaks have a heck of a hard time delegating," Corcoran explained. "They're the last people who want to give away what they do so perfectly."

Corcoran says in order for your business to grow, though, it's important to find someone who can do the job 80% as well as you can. If you find a candidate who can do that, invest in them to "build your business and move it ahead."

Corcoran said she goes through a three-question litmus test before hiring someone to create a strong pool of employees.

Related: Barbara Corcoran Issues Statement, Warning on NAR Settlement

"I ask myself, 'Are they happy? Do they work hard? Are they talented people in one regard or another?' And if they are, I hire them, and I delegate something to them that's above their pay grade, above their talent pool, so they have to reach and show me how good they are, and that's how you develop talent," she said.

"It's not just a matter of delegating, it's a matter of developing talent, and then delegating to the talent," she added.

Corcoran's net worth is an estimated $400 million.

Emily Rella

Senior News Writer

Emily Rella is a Senior News Writer at Entrepreneur.com. Previously, she was an editor at Verizon Media. Her coverage spans features, business, lifestyle, tech, entertainment, and lifestyle. She is a 2015 graduate of Boston College and a Ridgefield, CT native. Find her on Twitter at @EmilyKRella.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Science & Technology

Use This Framework to Successfully Integrate AI Into Your Business Operations

Here's how to ensure both innovation and compliance when using AI in your organization.

Growing a Business

Why Business Owners Should Streamline Their Operations Now for Success in 2025

As the holiday season and year-end approach, business owners face heightened operational demands, from inventory management to spend control. By streamlining these processes and partnering with flexible suppliers, businesses can maintain efficiency, meet customer needs and focus on growth while navigating this busy period.

Leadership

Why Your AI Strategy Will Fail Without the Right Talent in Place

Using fractional AI experts through specialized platforms allows companies to access top talent cost-effectively, drive innovation and scale agile strategies for growth.

Growing a Business

5 Effective Strategies to Boost Your Business's Online Presence

Boosting your online presence in 2025 is the key to success for businesses looking to grow. Working on your branding and reputation management is important to drive more sales and improve conversion.

Business News

Here's What the CPI Report Means for Your Wallet, According to JPMorgan and EY Experts

Most experts agree that there will be another rate cut next week.