The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

His project manager walked off the job, 22 open jobs waiting to be completed, negative net profit,  unhappy clients, and a team that’s been reduced after the PM quit on him — Matt, a third-generation contractor from Massachusetts, is facing some major business challenges. Tom sits down with Matt to find a way out of this tough situation.Episode Highlights:[00:00] - Intro[00:19] - Matt’s background and business overview[00:38] - The project manager walked off the job[03:40] - Strategy to tackle these challenges[06:20] - Communicate with clients, even when the news isn’t good[07:20] - Focus on finishing one project at a time to avoid profit leaks[11:03] - Managing the remaining team after some crews left[14:32] - Tom’s experience with a similar situation[17:04] - Reverse engineering projects and setting daily milestones[18:55] - $1.5 million in pending projects[19:34] - How the situation is affecting both his business and home life[22:48] - Leadership shortcomings that led to this situation[24:12] - The importance of hands-on leadership and accountability[26:40] - Non-negotiable commitments Matt must make [31:15] - Focusing on man hours and targets[32:50] - Tom’s 20 steps to a successful project[35:14] - Impact of his current business on sales[41:31] - Training the team to solve problems independently[44:11] - Matt’s plans to hire a new project manager[47:07] - Biggest takeaways from the conversation[49:40] - Closing remarksResources:💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 💪 Get on the podcast! - https://thecontractorfight.com/intervention== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify Mentioned in this episode:Be on the Contractor Intervention! - https://thecontractorfight.com/intervention

Explore the importance of nurturing long-term client relationships rather than just chasing new ones. Discover creative ways to show appreciation for loyal customers, like unique gifts that boost brand awareness. Learn how regular communication helps clients remember all the services you offer, ensuring you stay top of mind. Delve into marketing insights for future success and the benefits of proactive planning to keep your business thriving. Personal stories illustrate how small thoughtful gestures can forge lasting loyalty.

When you want to buy something and find the right product, even if it’s expensive, you’re willing to spend the money because you see its value. Selling works the same way! If you understand how you feel when you buy something, it can help you sell better. Tim and Derek explain that if you want to boost your sales, you should sell like you buy because this allows you to understand the mindset and needs of your client. It also allows you to sell more effectively by speaking about the value of what you’re offering instead of just the price.In this episode, they discuss:What does it mean to sell like you buyHow spending money on big projects for his home has made Derek more confident when selling expensive services to his clientsSelling like you buy, instead of being afraid of the numbersThe role of sales training, repetition, and learning from mentors to develop your sales skillsBuilding the skills and mindset to attract high-value clients and not be afraid of big projects and costsResources:💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify 

Today’s guest, Mira, talks about how she built a successful business but felt unhappy and decided to change her path. Mira created a six-figure business but realized that something was missing—she felt unfulfilled and empty inside. She had climbed the ladder of success, but it was leaning against the wrong wall.Mira discusses how important it is to define success on your own terms, listen to your inner voice, and make tough decisions. She also shares how she is now building a career and life that truly fulfills her.Episode Highlights:[00:00] - Intro[00:42] - Mira’s background[02:07] - Mira’s income and business before joining Battleground[06:04] - Transition from being a handywoman to a GC[09:05] - The challenges she faced during her transition[11:11] - Feeling unfulfilled and unhappy despite success[17:44] - How Chris Dwyer helped her realize her ability to make change[21:46] - The body will tell you when you need to figure things out[22:32] - Deciding to step back from the business[24:21] - Mira’s plans to focus on her passion for woodworking[27:30] - Examples of business owners feeling unhappy despite financial success[30:01] - The pressure entrepreneurs put on themselves to have a certain type of business[31:03] - Mira’s non-negotiables[34:22] - Separating her identity from her business[38:55] - Why is Mira a successful business owner?[41:49] - Build a business that serves you, not controls you[43:56] - Not waiting for “someday” to have the life you want[47:42] - Taking many retirements and the value of financial discipline[49:44] - Closing remarksResources:💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify

Which of these better represents your company: Crews without uniforms, company vehicles, or team members fully decked out in company uniforms and gear? Tim and Derek discuss the importance of uniforms and branding for your business. When people see your crew looking professional, they assume you’re the real deal. But, it’s not just about impressing the customers. Uniforms also have a way of bringing the team together, fostering a sense of unity and pride.In this episode, they discuss:The impact of uniforms and branding on the perception of a company’s professionalismThe connection between branding and company cultureDerek’s experience with hiring a crew without uniformsThe importance of company culture and community and how uniforms can contribute to thisHow wearing company gear can boost team moraleTim’s preference for not being the face of the company and how it allows employees to feel part of the companyResources:💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify

Neil Kristianson, the CEO of The Contractor Fight, sits down for a round-table discussion with BATTLEGROUND coaches Aaron Harshaw and Tim Cutroni to discuss what’s happening in the contracting industry right now. They discuss the tough challenges contractors are facing in 2024, from dry spells in sales to the shifting market dynamics and how to stay strong in a competitive market. They also share the current state of their businesses and give practical advice for contractors looking to navigate this tricky year.Episode Highlights:[00:00] - Intro[00:41] - Aaron’s bio and his contracting business[01:20] - Tim’s bio and the current state of his business[04:00] - Aaron’s experience of a sales dry spell from Q1 to Q2[05:50] - The mindset shift needed to stay positive in tough times[07:12] - Mindset differences in contractors within BATTLEGROUND vs. outside it [09:57] - How Aaron overcame the dry spell in his business[11:48] - Advice for struggling contractors[13:40] - Stories of recent wins from BATTLEGROUND members[17:44] - Aaron, Tim, and Neil’s plan for 2025[22:29] - Wrap-upResources:💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify Mentioned in this episode:Be on the Contractor Intervention! - https://thecontractorfight.com/intervention

Imagine you’re hiring someone for an important job or choosing a company to handle a project. What’s the first thing you think about? Credibility. It is super important when it comes to trusting and believing that the person is able to do the job properly. Tim and Derek discuss the importance of credibility in business, i.e., being trustworthy and having people believe in your skills.In this episode, they discuss:What is credibility and the importance of credibility for a businessStory of a doctor who lost credibility because he lacked preparation and clarityThe company that earned Derek’s trust by clearly explaining their workHow branding, experience, reviews, and referrals increase credibilityTips and advice for contractors to build the credibility of their businessResources:💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify Mentioned in this episode:Be on the Contractor Intervention! - https://thecontractorfight.com/intervention

Tom sits down with Mike Claudio to dive deep into the realities of being a CEO and a leader. They share their personal experiences and discuss the tough decisions that come with running a business, building a strong team, letting your team make mistakes, and how to adjust your business during tough times. They also share how to lead with confidence and navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.Episode Highlights:[00:00] - Intro and preview of the episode[01:18] - Staying fit and active[03:13] - The reality of entrepreneurship[04:34] - It’s a tough time for business right now[07:18] - Make decisions by looking at data, not hope[09:30] - The emotional toll of being a CEO[11:43] - Tough times give you wisdom[13:20] - Victim mentality of some business owners[15:15] - Why Tom started his new painting business as a side hustle[17:28] - Adjust according to the needs of the market[20:22] - Email Tom your problem and your plan to fix it[21:12] - CEO is an employee of the company[22:57] - Putting pressure on employees to win[26:31] - The reason why a lot of contractors can’t scale[29:17] - Allowing your team to make mistakes and learn instead of doing everything by yourself[32:14] - Your #1 role as a leader: Teach your people to think[38:16] - The importance of empowering your team[39:46] - How a negative culture can stifle new talent[41:31] - The myth of luck in success[45:18] - Emotional toll of leadership and being willing to make sacrifices[49:28] - Track ROI on every expense[51:14] - Offer services that solve market problems[53:13] - Keep your family informed about the business situation[54:40] - The importance of communication in both personal and professional life[57:09] - Maintaining confidence through tough decisions[1:00:07] - The reality of being a business coach or mentor[1:05:15] - Closing remarksResources:== Mike Claudio Website: https://www.mikeclaudio.com/ == WinRate Consulting: https://www.winrateconsulting.com/ 💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify 

“That won’t work in my state,” “People won’t pay that where I’m from” – is this your excuse for not charging what you need to? Tim and Derek are here to tell you to stop selling short. If you want to survive and thrive in your business, you have to stop making excuses and start charging what you need. Whether it’s the size of the town, the competition, or your own fear of asking for more money—it’s all just noise.In this episode, they discuss:The solution to the common excuse: “That won’t work in my state” or “People won’t pay that where I’m from.”Traveling to the areas where the money is Providing value and building your brand to justify higher pricesYou can’t make excuses for not being successfulCharging what the job is worth and not undervaluing your servicesThe value of experience and training in boosting your confidence as a contractorResources:💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify Mentioned in this episode:Be on the Contractor Intervention! - https://thecontractorfight.com/intervention

Hiring is probably an issue that you’re having right now in your contracting business. And many contractors don’t have a hiring problem as much as they have a keeping them problem. In this episode, Tom sits down with Ryan — the founder and CEO of Core Matters, a company that helps businesses attract, hire, and retain qualified employees. The two talk about how to attract and hire the right talent and keep them in your business.Episode Highlights:[0:00] - Intro[00:30] - Ryan’s bio and what Core Matters does[01:08] - Hiring frontline workers[03:09] - People leave bosses, not jobs[04:30] - The core fit hiring system[06:03] - 3 questions for business owners to identify their core values[08:04] - Addressing the question: What’s in it for me?[09:44] - Growth Accelerator Program (GAP)[10:26] - It’s not a hiring problem. It’s keeping them problem[11:12] - Some reasons why employees leave[12:25] - Why behavior matters in hiring and retention [15:39] - Having clear communication and keeping promises[19:35] - How poor communication can make employees feel insecure about their jobs[21:15] - Advice for those who are afraid to hire[24:25] - Recognizing and utilizing the talents of existing employees[26:17] - Hire Better People Faster book[27:00] - How to work with Ryan[27:41] - What working with Core Matters looks like[29:06] - Identifying and hiring the right talent[33:56] - Closing remarksResources:== Core Matters Website: https://corematters.com/book-a-call/ == Get Hire Better People Faster book: https://corematters.com/freebook/ 💰 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/ 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap == Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook == Grab the Gear ==https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ == Find Us on Social Media ==YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig == Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! Apple Podcasts  Spotify