Winning Before You Build: How Thoughtful Planning and Clear Communication Drive Profitable Projects

Clint Padgett is the CEO and President of Project Success, Inc., an author and host of The Conversation with Clinton M. Padgett podcast. With extensive expertise in project management, he helps organizations improve execution, collaboration, and communication to drive successful outcomes in complex projects across various industries.

During today's conversation, Clint discusses the challenges of communication in construction projects, emphasizing that software is a tool, not a solution. He highlights the pitfalls of one-way communication and the importance of conversations in solving problems. Clint also explores the impact of silos, avoidance of confrontation, and strategies for preparing for difficult discussions. He stresses thorough planning, clear handoffs between estimating and project management, and prioritizing bottlenecks. Moreover, Clint shares advice on structuring a project manager's week, effective subcontractor communication, and regaining control in chaotic projects. Finally, he offers insights on distinguishing top project managers and handling unreasonable project owners.

 

Key takeaways 

✅ Avoid one-way communication; have direct discussions to solve problems faster. ✅ Encourage cross-team discussions to improve planning and execution. ✅ Remove ambiguity by involving all stakeholders in the planning process. ✅ Structure project managers' weeks with clear priorities and bottleneck checks. ✅Ensure transparent communication between estimating and project management for smoother transitions.

 

Highlights

[01:19] Challenges of Communication in Construction Projects 

[02:54] Avoidance of Confrontation and Silos 

[04:33] Preparing for Confrontations 

[06:49] Importance of Planning in Construction 

[08:18] Sources of Gray in Projects 

[11:29] Structuring a Project Manager's Week

[11:48] Prioritizing Bottlenecks

[12:49]Communicating with Subcontractors

[16:10] Regaining Control in Chaotic Projects

[24:24] Separating A-Level Project Managers 

[28:30] Planning Meetings and Dealing with Unreasonable Owners 

 

Resources

Connect with Clint:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/clintpadgett/

Website: clintonmpadgett.com/

 

Resources to Help You Win in Construction

📖 Construction Genius Book – No B.S., practical, hands-on leadership, strategy, sales, and marketing advice for construction companies. Click this link to buy the book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/

🎯 The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader – Master the leadership skills you need to succeed in construction. Click this link to learn more and enroll: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/

☎️ Book a 10-Minute Call with Eric Anderton – If you want to discuss how I can help you coach your leaders, let’s connect. Book a 10-minute conversation here: https://10minutes.youcanbook.me/

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