#457 How Pre-Construction Systems Create Control & Profit (ft. Todd Dawalt)

In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network podcast, Logan Shinholser talks with Todd Dawalt, founder of Construction Leading Edge and host of The Construction Leading Edge Podcast. Together, they dive into the dangerous trap many contractors fall into, doing “just enough to start” (JETS)—and why that mentality holds businesses back from sustainable growth. Todd shares how building robust pre-construction systems, documenting processes, and creating real clarity in communication can make the difference between chaos and control on a jobsite.

Drawing from his years of coaching and consulting with construction companies, Todd walks through tactical strategies for increasing profitability and how simple documentation can solve major business problems. Whether you’re a one-man band or running a team of 100, this episode is packed with insights that will help you stop winging it and start winning.

 

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Key Takeaways

The JETS Mentality is Holding You Back

• Doing “just enough to start” creates costly mistakes and jobsite chaos.
• Companies need to operate with a mindset of clarity, not improvisation.

Documented Systems Drive Profitability

• Contractors often mistake “it’s in my head” for a system.
• Writing things down can solve 80% of common construction business problems.

Pre-Construction is Where the Money Is Made

• Profits are built (or lost) before the job even begins.
• Pre-construction systems reduce change orders, stress, and delays.

Turn Chaos into Predictability

• Without structure, your team will make up their own rules.
• Checklists, job books, and templates create consistent results.

Leadership Isn’t About Hustle—It’s About Systems

• Business owners need to graduate from “doer” to “leader.”
• Building systems empowers your team and removes dependency on you.

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Memorable Quotes

“Chaos is expensive—clarity is profitable.”

“You don't rise to the level of your goals; you fall to the level of your systems.”

“Documenting your process is the cheapest, fastest way to fix most of your problems.”

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Actionable Advice

• Start with one system. Pick one process you repeat often and document it.
• Replace tribal knowledge. Get everything out of your head and onto paper.
• Build a job book. Give your team a standard package of information for every job.
• Focus on pre-construction. Nail the planning phase before picking up a hammer.
• Lead with clarity. Create systems that enable your team to win without you.