621: Transforming Your Construction Team Through Support And Collaboration
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
Release Date: 03/28/2025
631: Proven Strategies For Attracting Quality Construction Clients
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 631, And It's About Proven Strategies For Attracting Quality Construction Clients As a construction business owner, you already know that winning new work is the lifeblood of your company. But not just any work—what you need are quality clients: the kind who pay on time, respect your expertise and give you the types of jobs that grow your bottom line. As construction accounting and bookkeeping specialists, we've worked with dozens of contractors who struggle with the same thing: they're busy, but they're not profitable. Often, the root of the issue isn't in their...
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630: Small Business Administration - Essential Strategies for Contractors
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 630, And It's About Small Business Administration - Essential Strategies for Contractors Running a small business is exciting, but let’s be honest, managing the admin side of things can feel overwhelming. Between keeping financial records, looking after daily operations, and ensuring compliance with tax laws, it’s easy to feel buried under endless to-do lists. But here’s the good news: with the right strategies, small business administration doesn’t have to be a headache. Here are some practical steps to streamline your business admin, save time, and boost...
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629: How To Optimally Allocate Resources For Construction Business Growth
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 629, And It's About How To Optimally Allocate Resources For Construction Business Growth In the competitive construction industry landscape, efficient resource allocation is a fundamental pillar of success. Construction business owners like you face the dual challenge of meeting deadlines while adhering to budget constraints, making effective resource management essential. As a business owner, you understand that growth doesn't just happen – it takes smart decisions, dedication, and a clear plan. One of your most critical decisions is allocating your...
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628: Efficient Payroll Implementation For Construction Business Owners
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 628, And It's About Efficient Payroll Implementation For Construction Business Owners mplementing an effective payroll system is crucial for construction business owners, as it directly impacts project management, employee satisfaction, and overall financial health. Given the complexities of the construction industry, including varying pay rates, overtime requirements, and the need for certified payroll reports, developing a streamlined payroll process is essential. Here are some steps to consider: 1. Determine Payroll Needs: Assess the size of your...
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627: The Essential Benefits Of A Purchase Order System For Contractors
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 627, And It's About The Essential Benefits Of A Purchase Order System For Contractors Running a small business is no small feat. Every purchase, every invoice, and every supplier relationship counts. But as your business grows, so does the complexity of managing procurement. This is where a Purchase Order (PO) System can help. The importance of a POS for contractors cannot be overstated. In the fast-paced and often unpredictable world of construction, managing resources effectively is crucial for the success of any project. It is a fundamental tool that...
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626: From Chaos To Clarity: The Right Construction Job Management System
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 626, And It's About From Chaos To Clarity: The Right Construction Job Management System Running a business involves countless moving parts, which can feel overwhelming. From managing projects and keeping the team on the same page to ensuring profitability. Have you ever sent an email about a critical update only to find that team members missed it? With a job management system, those headaches disappear. Given the industry's complexity and unique challenges, effective job management is crucial for construction contractors. Managing multiple projects,...
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625: Better Practices For Meeting Client Expectations In Construction
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 625, And It's About Better Practices For Meeting Client Expectations In Construction When hiring a construction contractor, clients often have a clear set of expectations that significantly influence their decisions. These expectations encompass many factors, including the quality of artistry, communication skills, adherence to timelines, and budget management. Picture a homeowner named Sarah. Excited and anxious, she embarked on renovating her old farmhouse. She understood that choosing the right contractor was crucial. After researching and meeting...
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624: Trading For Sales Vs. Trading For Profit In the Construction Business
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 624, And It's About Trading For Sales Vs. Trading For Profit In the Construction Business Times were tough, so Remodeler John decided to lower prices below those of his competitors. He promoted a charge-out rate 20% below the industry average, explaining that his overheads were lower than those of larger companies. The turning point came after advice from his mentor. "You're selling yourself short, John," said the mentor. "With your qualifications and experience, you should charge at least as much as other businesses – if not more. I understand your marketing...
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623: The Art Of Giving And Receiving Constructive Criticism In Construction
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 623, And It's About The Art Of Giving And Receiving Constructive Criticism In Construction Think about the last time you gave or received feedback. Did it inspire growth and improvement or leave someone feeling deflated? When done right, constructive feedback is a powerful tool for driving success. But it's a fine line – getting it wrong can do more harm than good. For business owners, managers, and team leaders, effectively giving and receiving constructive feedback isn't just a nice skill; it's a necessity. Feedback shapes stronger teams, builds trust, and...
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622: Identifying Gaps To Improve Your Construction Business Marketing
Contractor Success Map with Randal DeHart | Contractor Bookkeeping And Accounting Services
This Podcast Is Episode 622, And It's About Identifying Gaps To Improve Your Construction Business Marketing Visibility is essential for your handyman or contracting business for several key reasons. Effective marketing helps your company stand out in a competitive market, and promoting your services can help you reach a wider audience and become known in your community. Potential customers are more likely to hire someone they have heard about or seen advertised. This credibility is crucial for a service-based business like yours, where customers rely on reputation. Sharing content like...
info_outlineThis Podcast Is Episode 621, And It's About Transforming Your Construction Team Through Support And Collaboration
Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Communication is Key
Open lines of communication are essential. Hold regular meetings to discuss progress, challenges, and expectations. Encourage your crew members to voice their concerns and suggestions, which can help foster a collaborative environment.
2. Understand Their Perspective
Take time to listen and understand the reasons behind your crew's difficulties. Whether it's workload stress, unclear instructions, or personal issues, knowing the root cause can help you address their concerns more effectively.
3. Set Clear Expectations
Ensure that all crew members understand their roles and the project's goals. Clearly defined tasks and responsibilities can reduce confusion and help everyone focus on their objectives.
4. Provide Support
Offer help through additional resources, training, or simply being available to answer questions. Showing that you care about their success can boost morale and productivity.
5. Stay Professional
Remaining calm and composed is essential, even when tensions rise. Responding to negativity professionally and respectfully can help de-escalate conflicts and maintain a positive work atmosphere.
6. Conflict Resolution
When conflicts arise, address them promptly. Use a calm approach to mediate disputes, focusing on finding a solution for everyone involved. Avoid taking sides to maintain fairness.
7. Recognize Achievements
Acknowledge your crew's good work, no matter how small the accomplishments may seem. Recognition can boost morale and motivate the team to overcome challenges together.
8. Lead by Example
Demonstrate the work ethic and attitude you want to see in your crew. Your leadership style can set the tone for the entire work environment, influencing how the crew interacts and handles difficulties.
9. Be Flexible
Construction projects often come with unexpected challenges. Flexibility and openness to adjustments can help you navigate these situations and maintain team morale.
10. Seek Feedback
After resolving issues, seek feedback from the crew on the process. This can lead to valuable insights and improvements for future projects.
We settled for a different approach. In all our construction companies, we use a process to encourage innovation and optimize production at three specific times during the day: morning, noon, and afternoon.
Morning —We provided light snacks, pastries, fruit, bottled water, juice, coffee, and tea. We begin the day by informing the team about the legal requirements and end with a sheet of paper listing the goals for the day for each crew, which the superintendent/foreman/lead person, whatever title you use, keeps in their portfolio.
Noon—Lunch is also provided. Each person gives a morning progress report and afternoon target, which are updated on a paper sheet listing the day's goals.
Afternoon—Work stops ten minutes before everyone is due to clock out, and everyone gives an afternoon progress report and next-day target, which is updated on a sheet of paper listing the goals for the day.
Why Provide Snacks And Meals? Three Reasons - PROFIT! PROFIT! PROFIT!
Your construction workers may or may not have a hearty breakfast before coming to work, depending on various factors outside your and their control.
Well-fed construction workers produce more work in less time with fewer mistakes, which saves you time and money on labor, materials, warranty work, and other costs.
After a few hours of intense construction work, they could be dehydrated. Having burned several calories, their stomachs could be sending essential messages regarding food. This usually results in them slowing down a little bit, costing your company some profit dollars.
You should notice steady increases in production because everyone's needs are met, and each member of your crew—Journeymen, Apprentices, and Laborers—has a voice. This fosters a positive atmosphere. Additionally, you can expect substantial increases in innovation as an ongoing process, all while maintaining uninterrupted production.
In addition, a successful construction manager and business owner must possess a multifaceted skill set. This includes technical knowledge of construction methods and materials, project management expertise, and a deep understanding of industry regulations. Additionally, proficiency in risk management, scheduling, and resource allocation is vital in navigating the complexities of each project.
Adaptability is essential, as construction projects often face unforeseen challenges. A construction manager must be able to think on their feet and adjust plans as necessary to keep projects on track, demanding technical skills and a strong sense of judgment and creativity.
Final thoughts
The role of a construction manager and business owner is rewarding and demanding. It involves a delicate balance of leadership, responsibility, and diverse skill sets, all of which converge to ensure that projects are completed successfully, on time, and within budget.
Leading your crew effectively involves not just managing tasks but inspiring and developing your team to meet project goals while fostering a positive and productive work environment.
About The Author:
Sharie DeHart, QPA, is the co-founder of Business Consulting And Accounting in Lynnwood, Washington. She is the leading expert in managing outsourced construction bookkeeping and accounting services companies and cash management accounting for small construction companies across the USA. She encourages Contractors and Construction Company Owners to stay current on their tax obligations and offers insights on managing the remaining cash flow to operate and grow their construction company sales and profits so they can put more money in the bank. Call 1-800-361-1770 or [email protected]