The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

A Marine Corps veteran and landscaper faces the challenge of running his business during a year-long deployment. The discussion covers strategic hiring, subcontracting options, and effective financial planning to keep operations afloat. They delve into the importance of maintaining customer relationships and building a robust support system while he's away. Insights on future-proofing the business and aligning family goals with entrepreneurial ambitions provide a comprehensive roadmap for any entrepreneur confronting similar hurdles.

Dive into the secrets of effective hiring as the hosts explore why personality and attitude often trump skills. Discover how to set clear standards that foster accountability and boost team dynamics. Learn to identify red flags during interviews and appreciate the impact of maintaining high service standards. The conversation also highlights innovative approaches to establishing a positive company culture through recognition and support, all wrapped in engaging anecdotes from the construction world.

Discover the key to transforming your contracting business with an effective pricing strategy that targets a 50% gross profit margin. Tom shares his own experiences with the consequences of poor pricing decisions, emphasizing the importance of a positive money mindset. Learn how limiting beliefs can hinder your financial success and explore the T-BAR framework to reshape your approach. Practical tips are provided to help build confidence in your pricing and ensure you charge what you’re worth. Unlock your potential for greater profitability!

Tim and Derek dive into the exciting world of growing a contracting business. They discuss when to scale and the importance of laying a strong foundation with effective tools like job management systems. Delegation is key, as it frees up owners to focus on growth. The duo highlights successful contractors who thrive on communication and efficiency. They also explore how timely customer engagement can set a business apart, emphasizing that clear communication fosters trust and loyalty, making it a game changer.

Discover clever ways to maintain your income during slow seasons. Learn how reaching out to past clients can be a goldmine for repeat business and referrals. Explore the power of networking groups—think of it like farming, where patience pays off. Find out how to add adjacent services like snow removal or holiday lighting to your offerings. Plus, dive into strategies that help boost cash flow and ensure your business thrives all year round.

This dynamic conversation explores the art of preparation and mindset in sales. Role-playing exercises are highlighted as vital tools for building confidence and sharpening communication skills. The hosts discuss understanding client motives for faster deal closures. They emphasize the uniqueness of crafting a personal sales style while adapting proven techniques. Group coaching and learning from diverse perspectives are also key themes, along with strategies to tackle sales challenges like objections and decision-making.

The discussion dives into why contractors often find themselves financially strained, pinpointing the pitfalls of treating their business as merely transactional. Emphasizing personal discipline, the host reveals how consistency in decision-making is vital for success. A crucial shift in mindset from craftsman to business owner is explored, highlighting the necessity of embracing marketing and client relationships. Practical advice is shared to cultivate lasting connections and drive consistent leads, setting the stage for a more profitable contracting future.

Dive into the transformative world of job costing and discover how it can boost your contracting business. Learn about common pitfalls like labor overages and the importance of real-time monitoring to stay on track. Explore strategies for managing unexpected expenses while aiming for a robust gross profit margin. Uncover the significance of accurate estimates and effective communication with vendors to enhance profitability. Lastly, hear valuable lessons from both successes and failures that will equip you for long-term growth.

After a 12-year break, Tom dives back into the painting industry with Simplify Painting. He shares his motivations for starting fresh and discusses innovative strategies for lead generation, including social media and door-to-door outreach. Listeners gain insights into his impressive early sales numbers and the importance of quality control. Tom emphasizes embracing challenges and building a strong brand, all while maintaining clear communication and high standards for lasting success.

Explore the vital role of speed in communication and how it builds trust with clients. Discover tools like Calendly that streamline scheduling, putting clients in control. Hear strategies to personalize client interactions and improve satisfaction. Learn how organized systems enhance efficiency and foster loyalty. Real-world examples reveal how meeting client needs strengthens relationships. Gain insights into using customer information effectively to boost your sales approach.