The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

Most contractors are crushing it for 90% of the job, then they blow everything in the final 10%. You nail the work, cash the check, and think you're done. WRONG. You just fumbled at the goal line and killed your shot at referrals, reviews, and repeat clients. Tom breaks down the brutal truth: how you finish determines whether you're hunting for your next job or turning clients away because you're booked solid.⏱️ Timestamps[00:00] – Why finishing strong matters more than ever[00:28] – Chaos creates complacency (and costs you money)[00:47] – How the final 10% of the job shapes your reputation[01:00] – The death of trust: silence during the job[01:30] – What to say in daily client updates[02:10] – Pre-close walkthroughs and scheduling final reviews[02:41] – The 24–48 hour punch list rule[03:04] – The 3x walkthrough system: crew, PM, client[03:26] – The power of thank you cards and review asks[03:56] – Review script: asking without being awkward[04:28] – Strong finishes = strong reviews and easier sales[05:05] – Why your work alone isn’t enough—it’s about how they feel[05:46] – Want help? Check out the 5 Steps to 5 Stars program[06:03] – Final reminder: don’t coast—systemize your closeout=========================================⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tired of being the "cheap option" in your market? Learn the customer experience secrets that let you charge premium prices while competitors scramble for scraps. This is the same system that took one contractor from massive debt to $5.5M—and it works in any market: https://thecontractorfight.com/5-stars/=========================================💰 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 of the Contractor Fight Sales Podcast, hosts Tim and Derek dive deep into the shifting landscape of how customers buy and what contractors must do to adapt. Drawing from real-world conversations within the Battleground group, they explore how to respond when potential clients hesitate on big projects and how crucial it is to anticipate market changes before it's too late.Tim and Derek emphasize the importance of being proactive, investing in your sales skills, and surrounding yourself with people who push you forward. They challenge contractors to take responsibility, stop blaming external factors, and take decisive steps to build a resilient, profitable business.In this episode, Tim and Derek discuss:How buyer behavior is changing and what contractors need to do to stay aheadThe power of empathy in sales conversations and helping clients work through hesitationWhy waiting for jobs to fall into your lap no longer works—and what to do insteadThe importance of building a maintenance department for long-term business sustainabilityHow joining a community like Battleground accelerates your growth through shared experiences and accountabilityThe truth about selling out of desperation and how to avoid itWhy investing in coaching is one of the smartest moves you can make for your businessThe reality check: the problem is not the economy or the competition—it’s youLinks from the episode:=================================🛡️ 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

Contractors submitted their marketing for a no-holds-barred roast, and Tom brought in WAR ROOM Coach Micah Miller to join the fun. Together, they deliver straight-shooting critiques of websites, logos, calls to action, and more. If your marketing sucks, this episode will show you why and how to fix it. Learn what truly converts, the power of storytelling, and how to make your digital presence work harder for your business.In this episode Tom and Micah discuss:[00:25] Introduction of Micah Miller and his social media-driven marketing success[01:53] Micah's minimal ad spend strategy and massive content ROI[03:00] The $3-a-day Facebook ad that skyrocketed video views[03:30] Micah’s $6M sales projection with under 2% marketing spend[04:08] Beginning of the marketing roast: First Edition Remodeling website[04:49] Issues with wordy websites and poor call-to-action strategies[06:17] Importance of a responsive website and Google rankings[07:19] Website goals: Build trust and engagement to convert leads[09:10] Using dynamic headlines and emotionally engaging copy[10:41] The power of project recaps: Before, during, after photos and videos[12:11] Micah’s use of storytelling and transparency to weed out poor-fit leads[14:20] How project recaps prequalify leads and improve sales efficiency[15:29] Critique of blog strategy: One post isn’t enough[16:12] How to write helpful, FAQ-driven blog content vs salesy pitches[18:26] Feedback on the About page: Be human, tell your story[20:54] Use personal and origin stories to build connection and relatability[22:15] Making the quote calculator more interactive with video walkthroughs[23:07] The debate: Should you gate content behind contact info?[24:10] Website roast #2: Deck by Design and logo readability issues[25:52] Calls to action should be specific and action-oriented[26:19] The value of project recaps over basic galleries[27:25] Critiquing blog titles and content relevance to homeowners[29:24] Combine 3D modeling with process explanations for better clarity[30:37] Explain project decisions in terms of design, budget, and permits[31:04] Website roast #3: True Quality Homes and mobile responsiveness issues[32:36] Too much text, not enough visuals under services[33:24] Flip the copy to focus on the client’s experience, not the contractor[35:40] Lack of personal touch and identity on the About page[36:13] Missing team photos and social links reduce connection and credibility[37:12] Missed opportunities with social media content and before/after transformations[38:07] Preview of part two: Truck wraps, yard signs, and ego vs value-driven marketingLinks from the episode:Micah’s example project recaps: https://www.easton-outdoors.com/ourwork/=============================================================================================🧰 CONTRACTOR BUSINESS SCHOOLIf you’re serious about building a profitable, structured contracting business without the chaos, this is your shot. Get the tools, insights, and mentorship you need to level up—on YOUR time, at YOUR pace.https://contractorbusinessschool.com/============================================================== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

In this episode, Tim and Derek dive into the common pitfalls contractors face when trying to grow too quickly. Drawing from their own experiences and observations of younger entrepreneurs, they break down the key aspects of running a lean, profitable business and knowing when and how to scale. Whether you're just starting out or years into your business, this episode will push you to reflect on your goals and how to reach them without sabotaging your own success.In this episode Tim and Derek discuss:Observations of young entrepreneurs thriving in mobile detailing and window tinting businessesThe temptation to scale too quickly and how it can kill profitabilityMistakes they made early in their own businesses by not understanding overheadWhy knowing your numbers and calculating true costs is essentialBuilding a war chest and delaying hiring until it's absolutely necessaryThe importance of knowing how much you want to make and building the business around that goalChoosing between being a solo operator or building a team, and the trade-offs of each pathDeveloping a real business plan and vision, not just working job-to-jobHow proper scheduling based on revenue—not convenience—can boost profitsCalculating employee burden and understanding the actual cost of hiringLeveraging part-time help smartly and building systems to increase efficiencyReal-world examples of how their businesses now run like well-oiled machines thanks to planning, roles, and strategic hiresHiring the right people in the right roles to free yourself up and stay consistent with marketing and growth🛡️ 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

Tanner Mullen, a successful painting contractor and founder of DripJobs CRM, shares his inspiring transformation from the restaurant industry to establishing a million-dollar painting business. He reveals powerful sales strategies and the crucial role of effective follow-up. Tanner discusses the ins and outs of leveraging Facebook ads, emphasizing storytelling to build trust with clients. Additionally, he highlights his innovative CRM designed for contractors and offers a limited-time deal for listeners interested in boosting their business efficiency.

In this episode of The Contractor Fight Sales Podcast, Tim and Derek dive deep into the importance of having tough, clear conversations with clients — before the shovel ever hits the dirt. From buried wires to dead irrigation systems, they share real-world stories where contracts and communication saved the day. Learn how preparation, confidence, and transparency can keep your jobs profitable and your clients happy.In this episode Tim and Derek discuss:The importance of having a thorough, well-written contract that protects your business when the unexpected happensHow to confidently address unforeseen issues, like hitting buried electrical lines, using contract clauses and change ordersWhy practicing difficult conversations and setting clear expectations upfront with clients leads to smoother jobsHow “sliding the check back” helps you address all potential issues before accepting a depositThe value of brutal kindness: over-communicating risks, delays, and possible disruptions to build client trustUsing humor and transparency to ease clients into uncomfortable truths about the construction processWhy discussing estimated start dates, HOA approvals, and who handles what is key to avoiding miscommunicationThe benefit of making clients feel “safe” throughout the chaos of a construction projectReal examples of how practicing and refining communication has made sales smoother and more efficient=================================🛡️ 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

Hiring more people doesn’t automatically fix the chaos in your contracting business—in fact, it can make things worse if you're not leading properly. In this no-BS solo episode, Tom breaks down why hiring alone won’t save your business and how poor leadership is often the real issue. Drawing from his own hard-earned experiences, Tom lays out a practical framework for transforming from a chaotic boss to a true leader that empowers a high-performing team.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:20] Why hiring without leadership multiplies chaos, not solves it[01:00] The real mistake contractors make: hiring hostages, not help[01:40] How a lack of systems and accountability creates a hypocritical culture[02:12] Why your team's underperformance is a reflection of your leadership[03:01] The difference between successful teams and chaotic ones: leadership[03:11] Extreme ownership and its impact on team performance[03:35] Introduction to the Sales Accelerator and how it can help pack your pipeline[04:21] The real solution: Leading—not just hiring—frees you up[04:50] The importance of roleplaying and ongoing training beyond sales[05:03] Why weekly operations meetings are crucial for group accountability[05:41] Creating clear daily plans and expectations for your team[06:18] Stop expecting results without giving your team clarity and a target[06:27] Most times, you don’t need better people—just better leadership[06:48] The importance of tightening operations before scaling[07:10] Final thoughts on growing your business with intentional leadershipLinks from the episode:SALES ACCELERATOR isn't about fancy marketing tricks or expensive ad campaigns.It's about systems that work:- Lead generation without big ad spend- Sales processes that close deals- Accountability to actually implement- Live coaching from someone who's been there6 weeks. Real results. No BS.👉 https://thecontractorfight.com/morejobs== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

In this episode of The Contractor Fight, Tim and Derek dive into a powerful mindset shift every contractor should adopt — taking action today for the benefit of your future self. They discuss how to evaluate daily decisions, avoid regret, and maintain focus on long-term success, both personally and professionally. From turning down high-maintenance projects to refining sales techniques, this episode is all about being intentional with your time, energy, and choices.In this episode, Tim and Derek discuss:Why negative self-talk stems from poor past decisions and how to change the narrativeThe importance of being intentional with your goals and actions, even day by dayA real-life example of evaluating whether a $500,000 celebrity project is worth the troubleThe long-term value of smaller, profitable, and repeatable jobs over massive one-offsHow to carry confidence and professionalism into sales conversations and client interactionsWhy making more money isn’t as satisfying as keeping more profit and building safety for your teamThe mindset that lets you confidently choose your clients and say no to bad fitsHow training and asking better questions saved a potentially lost client relationshipSALES ACCELERATOR isn't about fancy marketing tricks or expensive ad campaigns.It's about systems that work:- Lead generation without big ad spend- Sales processes that close deals- Accountability to actually implement- Live coaching from someone who's been there6 weeks. Real results. No BS.👉 https://thecontractorfight.com/morejobs== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

We’re halfway through the year, and Tom isn’t holding back. In this fire-filled solo episode, he delivers the tough love contractors need to hear to stop coasting and start dominating. If you want to avoid a disappointing year-end with no cash, no momentum, and plenty of regret, now is the time to step on the gas. Tom breaks down why most contractors are stuck—and what they can do to break free and finish the year strong.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:00] Harsh reality check for the second half of the year[01:14] The #1 reason your business is stuck: lack of discipline[01:48] How comfort is the enemy of progress[02:51] Why Q3—not Q4—is the time to go all in[03:21] Debunking the "too busy" excuse and reclaiming your time[04:02] Building a team to scale your business beyond yourself[04:53] Calling out hypocritical leadership and poor culture[05:18] How to build a network from scratch[06:17] Turning wasted time into ROI-driving activities[06:37] Discipline and commitment over motivation[07:25] Why this is “separation season” for contractors[08:08] Building a strong accountability network[09:24] Choosing discomfort and effort over the easy path[09:42] Action Step #1: Role-play sales consistently[10:42] Action Step #2: Surround yourself with local winners[11:00] Action Step #3: Get a real accountability partner[11:30] Action Step #4: Build a magnetic and effective sales system[12:22] Stop settling for “good enough”—despise mediocrity[13:21] How to get more leads and sales with Sales AcceleratorLinks from the episode:SALES ACCELERATOR isn't about fancy marketing tricks or expensive ad campaigns.It's about systems that work:- Lead generation without big ad spend- Sales processes that close deals- Accountability to actually implement- Live coaching from someone who's been there6 weeks. Real results. No BS.👉 https://thecontractorfight.com/morejobs== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

In this episode, Tim and Derek share personal stories and insights about the profound impact that attending training events has had on their careers and lives. From beachside memories in Cabo to being called out at Shindemonium, they reflect on the power of showing up, building relationships, and surrounding yourself with like-minded professionals. They also spotlight an upcoming can’t-miss event for pond contractors happening in 2025.In this episode, Tim and Derek discuss:How networking events like Pondemonium and Shindemonium shaped their paths and business successThe importance of getting out of your comfort zone and showing up even when it’s hardA detailed overview of the 2025 GSK Pond Camp hosted by Garden State Koi in Lyman, NHWhat attendees can expect: hands-on builds, educational classes, outdoor activities, fireside chats, and premium mealsThe powerful lineup of speakers and leaders, including Tom Reber, Tom Smith, Brian Helfrich, Clayton Grabber, and moreWhy this event is ideal not just for business owners but for their team members tooThe limited availability of only 125 spots and the urgency to secure a ticket before they sell outLinks from the episode: 👉 2025 GSK Pond Camp Tickets=================================🛡️ 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