

Construction Genius
Eric Anderton
Thomas Edison said, "Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration."
This show interviews hard-working construction company owners and executives who share their wisdom, perspectives, and lessons learned from decades of experience bidding, planning, and building profitable projects. Topics include leadership, strategic planning, conflict resolution, niche identification, succession planning, talent management, business development, and business growth.
Industry expert, Eric Anderton also shares his insights about how construction company owners can increase project profit by improving communication, running productive meetings, and attracting, developing, and retaining talented leaders.
Tune in each week and get practical inspiration for how to build people, projects, and profits.
"I know of no genius but the genius of hard work." John Ruskin
This show interviews hard-working construction company owners and executives who share their wisdom, perspectives, and lessons learned from decades of experience bidding, planning, and building profitable projects. Topics include leadership, strategic planning, conflict resolution, niche identification, succession planning, talent management, business development, and business growth.
Industry expert, Eric Anderton also shares his insights about how construction company owners can increase project profit by improving communication, running productive meetings, and attracting, developing, and retaining talented leaders.
Tune in each week and get practical inspiration for how to build people, projects, and profits.
"I know of no genius but the genius of hard work." John Ruskin
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 22, 2025 • 31min
AI Without the B.S.: Sharpen Proposals, Cut Rework, Win More Work — Fast
This episode offers a practical roadmap for leaders aiming to integrate AI while enhancing judgment, collaboration, and decision-making in construction! Luca Dellanna, a management advisor and bestselling author, discusses the real-world applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the construction industry. Luca emphasizes how AI can streamline operations by reducing errors, minimizing rework, and improving planning efficiency. The discussion explores using general-purpose AI tools like ChatGPT, with Luca advocating their accessibility and value for key personnel involved in project planning and proposal development. Furthermore, Luca delves into AI's role in enhancing clarity, acting as a "sounding board" for ideas, and helping with pre-mortem analysis to anticipate project failures. Luca shares strategies for crafting effective AI prompts, drawing parallels between prompt engineering and team delegation. He also tackles privacy concerns and advises trusting reputable vendors and anonymizing sensitive data. The conversation rounds out with insights on using AI for negotiation prep, meeting summaries, and internal documentation, stressing the importance of human oversight. Looking ahead, Luca underscores the need for companies to future-proof their workforce by developing AI literacy and sharing best practices. HIGHLIGHTS [02:07] Integrating AI in Construction [04:56] Identifying Key Areas for AI Integration [06:42] Creating Effective AI Prompts [12:15] Addressing Privacy Concerns with AI [14:04] Using AI for Pre-Mortem Analysis [16:52] AI's Role in Replacing Workers vs. Improving Judgment [23:25] Future-Proofing Workforce with AI Skills [25:45] AI in Negotiation and Meeting Summaries KEY TAKEAWAYS Leverage tools like ChatGPT to reduce blind spots and improve clarity in job planning and bid writing. Write detailed prompts with clear goals and success metrics to get more useful AI responses. Ask AI to simulate project failures and identify risks before starting. Use AI to draft meeting notes, then review for accuracy and add key details. Teach staff to prompt effectively and share AI best practices across your company to future-proof your workforce. RESOURCES: Connect with Luca Dellanna: Luca on X: @DellAnnaLuca LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dellannaluca/ Website: luca-dellanna.com/ Mentioned in the episode: The simpler way to get your team to use AI: luca-dellanna.com/posts/ai-faster-adoption Never Split the Difference: amazon.com/Never-Split-Difference-Negotiating-Depended Restaurant Recommendation: http://lnx.plinetajarin.it/ 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 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

Apr 15, 2025 • 22min
5 Proven Ways Contractors Can Thrive During an Economic Downturn
The winds are changing, and uncertainty is knocking at your door! The market is shifting, and the anxiety is real. But right now? Now is your moment. In this week's solo episode, Eric dives into what it takes to lead when the economy feels unstable, how to keep your head clear, your team steady, and your business thriving. Eric presents us with five essential principles that will help leaders focus on what they can control and lead with confidence, clarity, and calm. Let's break it down. HIGHLIGHTS [00:45] Self-mastery in the midst of economic uncertainty. [03:49] Going back to the foundations. [04:50] The role of long-term commitments in uncertain times. [06:22] Treasuring cash by cutting unnecessary costs. [11:13] Focus on optimizing the execution of current projects. [16:53] Leading with optimism, personal discipline, and human connection. 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 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

Apr 8, 2025 • 42min
The Human Foundation: How a Construction Executive Learned to Build Teams, Not Just Structures
Effective leadership is about more than just navigating teams to success. It involves building trust, clear communication, and emotional intelligence. Influential leaders set clear expectations, provide necessary coaching, and focus on finding solutions during challenging times. Furthermore, they identify and value the importance of personal well-being and embrace practices to manage stress and maintain a positive mindset, which leads to a supportive, high-performing organizational culture. Johnathan Peavy brings 20 years of experience building complex facilities to his role as operations manager for Robins & Morton, a national leader in healthcare construction. As executive of the Miami—Fort Lauderdale office, Peavy oversees projects at eight medical campuses in South Florida, with contracts totaling more than $1 billion. With a background in civil engineering, Peavy's cross-discipline expertise makes him a unique asset to the construction process, and he takes pride in knowing the healthcare facilities under his purview have a lasting impact on the community. Peavy is a graduate of Auburn University and holds multiple credentials, including LEED AP and USACE CQM-C designations. He joined us today to talk about the importance of trust, accountability, and vulnerability in leadership to build teams. HIGHLIGHTS [00:43] Johnathan's background and career journey. [06:13] The balance between maintaining a family-like atmosphere and pushing for high-performance. [10:22] Johnathan explains how he handle the loss of his mentor and the challenges of taking over. [15:17] Johnathan's approach to managing internal conflicts. [18:27] The shift of mindset from handling individual projects to overseeing multiple projects. [21:00] The importance of collaboration and communication. [27:02] The importance of being open and direct during difficult conversations. [30:08] Johnathan explains the importance of structure, balance, and self-care in managing a busy day. [34:34] Presenting opportunities for improvement. [38:32] Advice for leaders who are stepping into senior roles. [44:01] The importance of vulnerability and emotional management in leadership. KEY TAKEAWAYS Set clear expectations and define what success look like for both the individual and the company. Be open and vulnerable with your team, especially when faced with tough circumstances. Take time to meet with team members with all levels and show that you value their contributions. Shift from control to influence when handling a larger team. Start with clear communication by discussing expectations from the very beginning. Be direct and open when facing difficult conversations. Provide chances to improve employee performance before deciding to part ways. RESOURCES Connect with Johnathan Peavy LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/johnathan-peavy-leed-ap-66a1429 Website – robinsmorton.com/ Instagram - instagram.com/robinsmorton/

Apr 1, 2025 • 33min
Strategic Accounting: The Untapped Blueprint to Profit, Protection, and Peace of Mind
Timothy Wingate Jr., founder and president of G+F Business & Financial Consulting, is a licensed Enrolled Agent and construction accountant specializing in tax planning and financial consulting for construction companies. In today's conversation, Timothy discusses key accounting and tax strategies, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right accounting method—favoring the completed contract or percentage of completion methods over cash-based accounting. He highlights common misconceptions, such as poor tracking and back-office inefficiencies, and explains how accrual accounting provides better financial insight. Timothy also covers tax planning mistakes, including improper entity selection and failure to pay oneself a salary, recommending S corporations for tax advantages. He shares strategies such as Section 179 deductions, retirement planning, and corporate tax credits. Additionally, Timothy addresses IRS audits, fraud prevention, and the necessity of proactive financial planning. Concluding, he offers insights on selecting the right CPA and shares a success story of a transformed construction company. HIGHLIGHTS [01:47] Choosing the Right Accounting Method [04:19] Steps to Implement Accrual Method [09:10] Tax Strategies and Equipment Purchases [10:13] Maximizing Returns and Minimizing Tax Liabilities [13:56] IRS Audits and Red Flags [17:26] Preventing Fraud and Maintaining Financial Integrity [22:38] Client Communication and Support [27:00] Personal Motivation and Client Success Stories KEY TAKEAWAYS Use the completed contract or percentage of completion method for better financial tracking. Implement systems for accurate receipt capture, invoicing, and expense coding. Consider an S corporation for tax savings if revenue exceeds $1M. Utilize Section 179 to deduct equipment purchases and reduce taxable income. Use company cards with spending limits and digital payment tools. RESOURCES Connect with Timothy Wingate: G+F Business & Financial Consulting LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/twingatejr/ LinkedIn – G+F Business & Financial Consulting Instagram – G+F Business & Financial Consulting Facebook – G+F Business & Financial Consulting @GplusF – YouTube Timothy's Restaurant Recommendation: Lynora's 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 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

Mar 25, 2025 • 46min
Snapping Lines Through Grief and Grit: A Woman's Rise in Commercial Construction
Pat Miller, owner of Blue Diamond Construction, has over 30 years of expertise in commercial carpentry and metal framing. An award-winning author of Kicking Karma's Ass, she inspires others with her resilience. She also hosts Behind the Blueprint and was recognized as an Outstanding Woman Builder in 2024. In today's conversation, she shares insights into the challenges of being a subcontractor, including coordination among trades and dealing with ineffective superintendents. Pat emphasizes the importance of clear communication and prefers working with contractors with whom she has an established relationship. She discusses her approach to coordination meetings, direct problem-solving with subcontractors, and meeting deadlines. On business development, Pat highlights networking, attending trade conventions, and leveraging relationships with non-competing professionals. She also shares her journey of building and rebuilding her business, overcoming personal loss, and maintaining resilience. HIGHLIGHTS [01:08] Pat's Business Background [03:48] Structuring Coordination Meetings [06:55] Handling Subcontractors and Coordination Issues [09:38] Business Development and Networking [12:42] Effective Networking Strategies [28:00] Building and Rebuilding the Business [36:29] Overcoming Grief and Continuing the Business KEY TAKEAWAYS Kick-off with a structured meeting, then maintain direct communication instead of excessive formal meetings. Tackle performance problems on-site first, giving a short window to improve before escalating. Attend industry events and trade conventions with non-competing business contacts to maximize opportunities. Adapt to personal and professional challenges by focusing on rebuilding, networking, and avoiding family business conflicts. Women in construction should assert themselves, prove their capabilities, and pursue opportunities despite biases. RESOURCES Connect with Pat Miller: Website: patmiller.net LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/patricia-pat-miller Company: bluediamondconstructionnj.com/ Book: KICKING Karma's Ass: Unbelievable Stories of Strength, Resilience, and Perseverance, All Told with a Twist of Humor 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 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

Mar 18, 2025 • 34min
Stronger, Healthier, Better: Fitness & Business Lessons from a Gym Design Expert
Chris Howell, CEO and Founder of SPX, is at the forefront of luxury gym design, blending aesthetics with functionality to create immersive fitness experiences. SPX crafts wellness spaces for high-end hospitality groups and multi-family residences, integrating cutting-edge equipment with innovative interior design. In today's conversation, Chris shares insights into his career transition from Wall Street to fitness, influenced by his athletic background in lacrosse at Hofstra University. He emphasizes the importance of nutrition over exercise, sustainable fitness routines, and balancing cardio with strength training. Chris also discusses gym design strategies, highlighting early collaboration with architects and the challenges of translating vision into execution. He delves into the sauna and cold plunge routines, injury rehabilitation, and the business strategy of targeting ideal clients. His approach underscores incremental changes for long-term health and success, both in fitness and business. HIGHLIGHTS [00:06] Gym Design Firm Overview [01:56] Athletic Background and Career Transition [04:21] Sauna and Cold Plunge Usage [07:38] Nutrition and Fitness Challenges [13:55] Balancing Cardio and Weights [18:01] Managing Injuries and Rehabilitation [21:12] Business Goals and Strategy [25:17] Finding the Right Client Avatar [29:14] Incremental Changes in Fitness and Nutrition RESOURCES: Connect with Chris Howell: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chrishowell16/ Website: spxgymdesign.com/ Restaurant Recommendations in NYC Emily: https://www.pizzalovesemily.com/ Catch Steak: https://www.catchrestaurants.com/location/catch-nyc/ 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 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

12 snips
Mar 11, 2025 • 52min
When Information is Free, Vision is Priceless—AI and the Future of Construction Leadership
Sean Devine is an entrepreneur, programmer, logistics expert, and the founder & CEO of XBE LLC. This enterprise software company offers an operations and business management platform tailored to large, vertically integrated construction companies. In the road building industry, XBE serves 40 major contractors, including companies with quarries, asphalt plants, ready mix-plants, crews, and trucks. His company's core mission is to seamlessly integrate the physical and financial aspects of construction operations into one cohesive system. He joined us today to talk about AI and the future of construction leadership. Key takeaways ✅ Trust your executives and managers to do daily operations. ✅ Acknowledge that you cannot predict the future and uncertainty can lead to opportunities if approached correctly. ✅ Optimize multiple outcomes instead of betting on one specific outcome. ✅ Acknowledge the uncertainty of the situation with your team and partners. ✅ Hire people who can quickly adapt, learn, and apply new knowledge across various areas. ✅ Trust your intuition when faced with uncertainty. Highlights [05:07] Sean explains the rapid decrease in the cost of intelligence due to advancements in artificial intelligence. [13:35] The challenges of balancing immediate responsibilities with long-term strategic goals. [20:00] Sean shares major changes in estimating and planning over the next three to five years. [23:22] The rapid and unexpected changes brought about by AI and technology. [28:17] Intuition as a tool for uncertainty. [39:56] The need for leaders to provide ambition and faith to their teams. [41:49] The importance of leadership in directing execution. [45:50] Building trust and confidence in relationships. Resources Connect with Sean Devine LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/seandevine-xbe/ Website - x-b-e.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 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

Mar 4, 2025 • 36min
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/ 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

Feb 25, 2025 • 38min
The Hidden Cost of Bad Onboarding (And How to Get It Right)
Hiring a great candidate is one thing. Keeping them engaged, productive, and committed? That's where most companies fall apart. 24% of new hires quit within weeks when onboarding is a mess. But when it's done right, 69% stay for at least three years. In this episode, Manja Horner, founder of Boost LD, breaks down how to create an onboarding experience that: ✅ Eliminates Day One Confusion – So new hires don't feel like an afterthought. ✅ Builds Instant Team Chemistry – Without forced, cringeworthy team-building exercises. ✅ Filters Out Bad Fits Early – Before you waste months training the wrong person. ✅ Gets Employees Contributing Fast – Because a long orientation doesn't pay the bills. This isn't another fluffy HR discussion. It's a deep dive into how construction leaders can get new hires up to speed faster, improve retention, and avoid costly hiring mistakes. Key Takeaways 1. Most Companies Get Onboarding Wrong (Here's Why) They don't have a structured plan. New hires arrive to zero direction—no mentor, no schedule, no sense of belonging. The unspoken rule is: Figure it out yourself. (Which leads to expensive turnover.) 2. How to Create an Onboarding Process That Actually Works Pre-boarding starts before Day One – A welcome email, a checklist, and clear expectations prevent awkward first impressions. The First Day Focus: A proper welcome from leadership (not just HR). A mentor or peer buddy—not just the boss. A walk-through of "unwritten rules" (break times, expectations, team norms). The First Week: Start with job-relevant tasks—don't just drown them in paperwork. Introduce key players and give context on why their role matters. 3. The 30, 60, 90-Day Reality Check Hiring mistakes happen—but they shouldn't take a year to fix. How to structure the first three months to evaluate if a new hire is really a fit. The DCOM Framework for diagnosing performance issues: Direction – Did they get clear instructions? Competence – Do they have the skills? Obstacles – Are there barriers stopping them? Motivation – Do they even want to be there? 4. When to Show a New Leader the Hard Truth Every company has problems—how soon should you expose them to a new hire? Balancing cultural immersion with immediate strategic involvement. How to leverage their fresh perspective before they become "just another employee." 5. What to Do When a New Hire Replaces a Popular Leader Navigating team loyalty. If the previous boss was loved, the new one has an uphill battle. Identifying the "informal leader" in the team—and turning them into an ally. Why trust-building must come before hard changes. 6. The Fastest Way to Get a New Hire Up to Speed (Even in a Technical Role) Capturing deep expertise before senior employees leave. The Camcorder Method: Using video documentation for faster knowledge transfer. Why hiring someone without technical knowledge requires intentional training. Guest: Manja Horner 📍 Founder, Boost LD – Specializing in HR and training solutions for skilled trades. 🔗 Website: boostld.com Connect win Manja on Instagram: @manja_horner 📥 Free Resource: Click this link and download the Onboarding Checklist: https://share.hsforms.com/17JmdisCfRBCjt4UQStu_ugs8p18 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/ 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!

Feb 18, 2025 • 32min
Jiu-Jitsu Selling: How to Flow with Resistance and Close Big Deals in Construction
Sales isn't about brute force—it's about strategy, adaptability, and control. Just like in jiu-jitsu, the best salespeople don't fight resistance head-on; they flow with it, turning objections into opportunities. In this episode of Construction Genius, Sean Ginsburg breaks down how to apply combat sports principles to high-ticket construction sales. From mindset to execution, this conversation will help you close more deals, build stronger relationships, and dominate your market. 🔑 Key Takeaways 🥋 Position Before Submission: Controlling the Sale The best closers don't chase deals—they control conversations by asking the right questions. High-ticket sales require patience and positioning—just like setting up a submission in jiu-jitsu. If you don't control the negotiation, you will get submitted. 💪 Handling Rejection Like a Fighter Expect resistance—just like in training, you're going to get "choked out" before you learn how to win. Repeated rejection isn't failure; it's feedback. Train, drill, and refine your approach. Objections are a sign of interest, not rejection. Lean into them and use them to strengthen your pitch. ♟️ Sales Is Chess, Not Checkers Selling a construction project is a long-term game—every move must be strategic. Follow-up is the ultimate weapon—80% of sales happen between the 5th and 12th contact. The best salespeople own their industry—they don't just pitch; they educate, advise, and lead. 🛠️ The 7 Non-Negotiables for Closing a Deal 1️⃣ Decision makers in the room—don't waste time with people who can't say "yes." 2️⃣ They have the money—qualify your prospects upfront. 3️⃣ They believe in the product—if they don't, your pitch needs work. 4️⃣ They trust you—conviction and credibility close deals. 5️⃣ They're confident in your company—show them you can deliver. 6️⃣ A clear written offer—remove ambiguity. 7️⃣ Urgency to buy—without urgency, deals stall indefinitely. 🚀 Mastering the Art of the Close Salespeople kill deals, not prospects. If a deal isn't closing, look in the mirror. Most salespeople hear objections and panic. The best slow down, ask deeper questions, and uncover the real issue. Every sales conversation is a series of moves—just like rolling in jiu-jitsu, you need to anticipate and counter with precision. 📈 The 3 Daily Habits of Elite Salespeople 1️⃣ Train like a fighter—role-play, rehearse, and refine your craft every day. 2️⃣ Build an unstoppable pipeline—if your pipeline is full, you'll never be desperate. 3️⃣ Follow up like your career depends on it—because it does. 🔥 Your Next Step Apply these principles for the next 12 months, and watch your sales numbers transform. It's not about being slick—it's about being strategic. 🔗 Connect with Sean Ginsburg 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sean.ginsburg/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanginsburg/ 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/ 🎧 Subscribe & Share If this episode hit home, share it with your sales team. And don't forget to leave a review—it helps more construction leaders find Construction Genius!


