The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

In this episode of the Contractor Fight Sales podcast, Derek and Tim dive into the critical topic of communication and training within your team. They share a real-world mistake that cost time and money, highlighting the importance of planning, clear communication, and team accountability. This episode emphasizes how a simple question—“What’s next?”—can revolutionize your operational efficiency and avoid costly setbacks.In this episode Derek and Tim discuss:Why poor communication and lack of training lead to inefficiencies and lost revenueA real-life example of a failed job execution due to unclear team expectationsHow asking “What’s next?” can help build a culture of accountability and proactive problem-solvingThe importance of daily and weekly meetings to align your team and prevent confusionThe value of documenting steps and ensuring everyone knows their responsibilitiesEmpowering your team to think ahead and take ownership of their rolesFor Tickets to Pond Camp, Visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-gsk-pond-camp-tickets-1332968367269?aff=oddtdtcreator=================================💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!https://thecontractorfight.com/50/=================================== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple Podcasts

Too many contractors are pulling in a million or more in revenue and still struggling financially. Why? Because they're undercharging—driven by a broken money mindset. In this episode, Tom breaks down the core reasons why contractors are afraid to charge what they're worth and offers a clear path to fix it. If your business is running full speed but your bank account doesn’t show it, this episode is your wake-up call.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:16] The problem of high revenue but low profits and constant financial stress[01:06] Applauding the milestone of hitting $1M, but highlighting why that’s not enough if there’s no net profit[01:29] The root cause of undercharging—fear and a broken money mindset[01:58] How childhood money beliefs shape your pricing behavior[02:44] The danger of negotiating against yourself and the need to stop underbidding[03:07] The cost of staying stuck—hurting yourself, your health, and your family[03:24] Real growth comes from more profit, not more jobs[04:02] A Battleground coaching example of losing money by giving discounts[04:40] The importance of slowing down and getting control of your business[05:04] Action steps: audit last 10 projects and add 20% to your next 3 bids[05:44] The trifecta of profitability—right pricing, marketing message, and sales process[06:07] Protecting your margin like your life depends on it[06:33] Trust the math—stop speculating and start pricing based on facts[06:43] A free tool to calculate what you should really be charging=================================💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/=================================== Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review. Apple Podcasts Spotify

In this episode of the Contractor Fight Sales Podcast, Tim and Derek dive into the nuances of shifting sales behaviors, buyer habits, and the importance of qualifying leads in today’s market. They share personal stories and tactical approaches to avoid wasting time on unqualified prospects, and emphasize the importance of staying proactive through seasonal slowdowns. This episode is a candid look at the sales hustle, complete with humor, tough lessons, and actionable insights for contractors looking to close more deals without falling into the "Hope Island" trap.In this episode Tim and Derek discuss:The shift from order-taking to hunting mode in sales post-COVIDWhy pre-qualification is essential before writing proposalThe danger of counting “maybes” as sales and how it leads to Hope IslandHow to avoid wasting time with uncommitted prospectsTactical follow-up methods to stay top of mind with potential clientsUsing empathy to understand a buyer’s timeline and financial behaviorThe value of staying visible and nurturing leads through seasonal lullsInsights into how saving habits affect buying readinessLeveraging social media and video content to educate and attract the right clientsDealing with online haters and staying committed to your sales process================================= 🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUNDEverything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!https://thecontractorfight.com/50/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

Tired of burning money on ads with little return? In this episode, Tom shares the most powerful, cost-effective marketing strategy he's used to generate millions in revenue — without cold leads or ad spend. Discover the Influencer Profit Strategy, a relationship-based approach to building a referral network that consistently delivers high-quality leads and drives serious growth.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:24] Why most contractors waste money chasing cold leads through ads and clicks[01:10] The strategy that has generated millions: building trust-based referrals[02:17] How better relationships, not more leads, are the key to scaling[02:36] Step 1: Identify 10 categories of professionals who serve your ideal client[03:15] Examples of referral partners by trade: designers, realtors, inspectors, and more[03:40] Step 2: Go deep with three quality contacts per category[04:22] Why reciprocal relationships drive success and referrals[05:06] The math: 30 partners × 1 referral per quarter = 120 leads/year[05:50] Why this strategy outperforms ad spend with an 80% close rate[06:03] The importance of being highly referable — make your partners look like heroes[07:16] How to implement the strategy: start listing categories and reaching out today[08:21] Stay visible and valuable even when there's no active project[08:42] Track referral sources with a CRM or spreadsheet[09:58] Real-world example: one interior designer partner generated $75K+ in revenue[10:16] Final advice: play the long game, earn referrals, and stop chasing strangers=================================🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUNDEverything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground=================================💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!https://thecontractorfight.com/50/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

Dive into the essence of leadership with insights on becoming a guiding lighthouse rather than a tugboat. Discover how positivity and recognition can transform team dynamics, driving motivation and dedication. Hear a powerful story of personal change that shows the impact of supportive leadership. Explore the vital role of trust in fostering a culture of safety and teamwork. Practical strategies, like the "Rule of 5," help boost morale and enhance relationships, ultimately linking good leadership to sales success.

In this episode, Tom shares the simple yet powerful daily habits that have helped him win more in life and business. Forget the trendy 3 a.m. routines, Tom keeps it real with a straightforward framework that every contractor can apply immediately. From physical movement to staying focused on your goals, Tom introduces the “F.W. Day” formula that aligns your personal discipline with business success.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:00] Why success doesn’t require complicated routines or trendy hacks[00:27] The power of good sleep and doing brain-intensive tasks early[01:03] How physical movement improves clarity and results[01:18] The importance of reviewing your goals daily to maintain focus[01:43] Introducing the “F.W. Day”—a daily structure for winning[02:04] How 75 Hard and the Live Hard program build discipline[02:15] F.W. Day Step 1: Personal Activities – Review goals and work out[02:41] Why clean eating and energy management are key to success[02:53] F.W. Day Step 2: Pipeline Activities – Generate leads with daily outreach[03:19] The ROI of 3 UITs (Unexpected Intentional Touches) per day[03:33] More pipeline examples: prospecting, calling remodelers, creating content[04:03] F.W. Day Step 3: Profit Activities – Protect your bottom line daily[04:17] Examples: job costing, pre-job meetings, team training[05:03] How sales role play in Battleground helps safeguard profit[05:16] Learning and implementing from training content[05:29] Recap of the F.W. Day and how it leads to consistent success[05:44] Invitation to Contractor Business School for contractors under $500k/yearResources: =================================🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUNDEverything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

Derek and Tim discuss the critical need for contractors to recognize their worth and time. They delve into the Shin-Fu prequalification process to enhance productivity and client appreciation. By shifting to phone consultations, they share how contractors can reclaim time and boost profitability. The hosts also emphasize clear communication and professionalism to build trust with clients. Personal anecdotes illustrate how valuing expertise leads to better relationships and a more balanced life.

Discover how your beliefs about money can transform your contracting business. Learn why a shift in mindset is crucial for setting confident prices and attracting high-end clients. Hear gripping stories about lost upsells and the impact of a broke mentality. Uncover the secrets of communicating value effectively and why discounting may not be the solution. Finally, explore the importance of crafting a premium experience to elevate your brand and boost profits.

In this episode of The Contractor Fight Podcast, Tim and Derek dive into the concept of proactive communication and responsibility within your team. A simple mistake—failing to inform a team member about a critical component’s location—led to major inefficiencies and delays. This conversation unpacks how these small missteps can cost contractors thousands and how to prevent them.In this episode Tim and Derek discuss:Why failing to “meter” your team's communication can cost more than you thinkA real-world example of how poor communication derailed a job and delayed paymentThe importance of establishing clear next steps to keep teams aligned and productiveThe power of the question “What’s next?” and how it builds a culture of ownership and clarityDaily and weekly meeting rhythms that ensure accountability and keep projects moving forwardWhy team training on communication processes is essential for scaling your business=================================🛡️ Join the PlatoonAdvanced Sales Techniques for Contractors who want to SMASH their sales goals in 8 weekshttps://thecontractorfight.com/platoon=================================💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!https://thecontractorfight.com/50/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

In this episode, Tom Reber gets real about his early experiences in sales and the emotional journey that followed. He opens up about a time when he embodied every negative stereotype of a salesperson, pushing unethical deals that left both him and his customers worse off. Tom shares a turning point that led him to completely change his approach and build an ethical, value-driven sales process. This episode is a must-listen for contractors struggling with head trash around sales and seeking a way to sell with integrity.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:00] How Tom fell into unethical sales shortly after leaving the Marine Corps[00:21] The deceptive sales script and high-pressure tactics used by the window company[01:11] Becoming the top salesperson despite feeling conflicted and dirty inside[01:29] A pivotal sales call with a young family that triggered his turning point[02:23] Forcing high-interest financing on customers and consolidating their debt[02:53] The decision to quit despite high earnings due to moral conflict[03:34] How this experience created deep head trash around sales[04:07] Learning that it's possible to sell with integrity and still reach financial goals[04:18] The Shinfu sales process and its emphasis on truly understanding client motives[04:45] The cultural contrast between ethical selling and high-pressure tactics[05:15] Why zero-pressure selling builds long-term trust and better business outcomes[05:33] Addressing the belief that “your work should speak for itself”[06:01] Introducing The Contractor Fight's Platoon coaching group for ethical sales training[06:52] Invitation to apply for Platoon and start selling in a way that feels right=================================🛡️ Join the PlatoonAdvanced Sales Techniques for Contractors who want to SMASH their sales goals in 8 weekshttps://thecontractorfight.com/platoon=================================💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!https://thecontractorfight.com/50/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify