Rural Contractors: Recent Episodes
Paul Osmundson
Join us on a journey to grow a rural construction business! Learn from Paul's experiences to create a sustainable business that benefits you, your team members, and your families. Get inspired to transform your own business into a thringing and fulfilling venture!
About your host, Paul Osmundson, He grew up on my Family Farm in rural Iowa. He started working in construction when he was 17. His brother started building his own construction business a few years later. Paul went and worked for him. He witnessed his brother go through all the ups and downs of building a business.
His brother streaked himself too far in his business ventures and had to let go. His brother sold him the company, and he used it as a side hustle. He didn't want to be "The Boss Man." The farm operation was falling apart, and my construction jobs took all his time away from his family. Something had to change! He sold more than half his cows and started building the construction business. He built Modern Shed Builders to a point where it could keep growing!
He was exposed to the real problems of building a construction business and how rural construction companies need more support and a network to build a lasting business!
What is your legacy?
I was talking with a potential client about entity structure and setting up a trust, and it got me thinking about why we're building legacies in the first place. We want to provide for our families and set them up for success, but ultimately, we want to build something for ourselves too.
For me, my goal was to build my farm operation so big that all four of my kids could come back and farm, make a reasonable salary, and enjoy their lives. I didn't want to sell everything and retire; I wanted to make it sustainable so that I could live off the income and pass it down to the next generation. But then I had to ask myself: is that the best thing for my family?
Do I want to make life so easy for them that they don't have to work hard? That's when I realized that my legacy isn't about the money or assets I leave behind; it's about the lessons that I pass down to my kids. Money can come and go, but the knowledge and skills needed to build it will always be valuable.
This reminded me of a book I love called "The Richest Man in Babylon." One of the stories talks about a man who is given three bags of gold and a stone tablet with the rules of money on it. He loses all the gold but is able to build it back up because he has the knowledge and understanding of the rules.
So, what's your legacy? Join me on this episode of Rural Contractors to explore the importance of passing down knowledge and lessons to future generations.
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Looking to improve your contracting business? In this episode, we will talk about the importance of having an estimating process for your contracting business. As carpenters, we love to get our hands dirty and dive into the job, but having a streamlined process for estimating and bidding can really help us bring in more work, keep our crews busy, and ultimately make more money. Having a streamlined and organized estimating process can really help your contracting business thrive. So whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, take the time to create a process that works for you and your business.
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Welcome to Rural Contractors, the podcast that dives deep into the world of rural contracting. In this episode, your host Paul Osmundson discusses a topic that is a struggle for many contractors - valuing themselves and their work. Paul shares a story about a customer who needed work done and was willing to pay any amount to get it done. However, the contractor was hesitant to raise their rates and struggled with the idea of charging what they were worth. Paul talks about the importance of valuing yourself and your time and charging what you are worth. He encourages contractors to bid on jobs and to become more efficient so that they can increase their hourly rate. He shares his own experience of building sheds and making over $100 an hour for his time. Join Paul as he shares his insights on valuing yourself and your work in this engaging and informative episode of Rural Contractors.
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055 | What's Stopping You
Frequently, we encounter tasks that come to us effortlessly, almost as second nature. We are instinctively drawn to these tasks and prioritize them over those we find less appealing, such as paperwork. As a business owner, I realized that to tackle these less attractive tasks, I needed to shift my perspective and approach them with the same ease and confidence as the tasks that come naturally to me. By breaking down these tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, I can approach them with determination and purpose. Furthermore, I found that some of these processes can be automated using tools like Zapier, enabling me to streamline and optimize repetitive tasks.
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054 | All I do is put out Fires
So many of us are stuck in the rat race of running around putting out fires. We go from one fire to the next doing all these things that have to be done. Sometimes we even put out other people's fires they ask us to do. But we're in this state, and we love it. The fact of the matter is we love putting out fires. We love to be needed. But how many times do we put out the same fires? Because we didn't properly extinguish the fire. What are those fires consistently coming up for you and your business? What are some action steps that you can take to eliminate those fires? If we're always running around putting out fires, we will not show up in the way that we want to in this life for the people we love. My family got put on the back burner, and I ran around and put fires out. But there is an adrenaline rush that comes with putting out fires. How can we put out the fire so that we can consistently build our businesses year after year? What sustainable things can we use to make our fires take less time? What is our fire plan?
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053 | Scaling the Business
Scaling your business, it's something we all dream about doing. But do you have the systems and processes to do it? In this episode, we talk about the vision for your company and where you want it to go. What problems you are facing in your industry? Why is it important for you and your family and your customer to solve this problem? Do you have a mission statement and core values? Systems and processes are you organized and efficient? Do you have interview questions for your future team members? Do you have employee contracts? Do you have roles and responsibilities laid out for each team member? Do you understand your finances on a deeper level? To take your business to the next level! Do you understand how banks work? Do you have a system for bookkeeping?
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052 | Extreme Leadership
Extreme leadership. I just read this book that someone recommended to me. And it took me back to how I have failed in the past that being a leader. Realizing that I must let go to let people learn the idea of decentralized command is an awesome tactic. To allow your team gives them a mission and allow them to fulfill it. Does this work instantly from the beginning? Maybe not. But the idea is that I am always there doing every task. I will always be at my job. I have to teach and lead well and let them games skills and knowledge. I have also failed on the other end of being too buddy-buddy and unwilling to make a decision, afraid of hurting somebody's feelings. Being a boss and being a leader are two completely different things. I have seen being a boss and not wanting to be that and then being too lenient. There are so many suitable lessons to be learned from this book. To help build the business
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051 | Money follows Attention!!
Money follows attention. So I was having a conversation with a potential client yesterday. And we were talking about this idea of what it's like talking in front of people on social media. We both agreed hey, I'm not that guy. I get it. I'm not, either. Thinking back about my journey, the first video I ever did. It sucked. This is a constant battle of getting better at speaking your message. But the fact is if I don't speak my message to a large group of people. I will never get to work. I was able to get other jobs from people I didn't know. Because I was speaking a message, I was speaking a story of this is what we do, this is how we do it, this is why we do what we do. This is important, and it gives you an edge over your competition. If I am $5000 more than the next guy down the road. But they don't know what he's done. They haven't watched him on social media. They don't know his system and processes. Can I have these guys presold on me because I have won their confidence?
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050 | Money lost lesson learned!!
In this episode, I share a personal account of a mistake made on a job that had the potential to cost the project $4000. Our team had missed a decimal point when quoting the steel price, and while we could have gone back to the customer for more money, I made the decision not to. We had already received a down payment, and I believed it was important to uphold my values of honesty and integrity. Although the mistake was made by the lumber yard, I took responsibility and worked with the team to come up with a plan to mitigate the loss and prevent future mistakes. Going forward, I learned the importance of meticulous attention to detail, reviewing material costs line by line and decimal point by decimal point. Ultimately, the lumber yard owner offered to split the difference with me, reaffirming my belief that honesty and integrity are crucial in business.
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049 | What makes you the most money right now?
I used to get so distracted by all the other tasks I had to do on the farm. I spend time on things that make me feel good, like fixing up the place and making it look nice. But at the end of the day, those things don't actually bring in more cash. I realized that no matter how pretty my fence looked, it wouldn't help me make more money off my cows. So, I decided to focus more on my construction business and getting things done as efficiently as possible. I always try to think about how we can do things better and faster, so we can save money and make more profit. It's been working out pretty well, and we can keep improving our efficiency and increase our earnings over time.
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048 | What is the Cost of staying where you are?
Hey there, let me ask you a question: what's the price you're paying by staying in your comfort zone, doing the same old thing, and hoping for a miracle to happen? What about those big, audacious goals you have for yourself, your business, your marriage, and your life? If you don't set clear targets and take consistent action, do you really think you'll ever make it to the top? What's the cost of not reaching your targets and settling for mediocrity? What's the cost of not chasing your dreams with relentless passion and dedication? How many times have you had a brilliant idea but failed to act on it? Let me ask you this: what's the cost of not taking action on that idea? This approach has helped me make countless decisions. It allows you to evaluate situations from a new perspective. By considering both sides - imagining a life without taking action versus a life with action - you'll often discover two completely different stories.
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047 | Communication is Key
In this episode, I want to share with you all how I learned the hard way about the importance of communication in a relationship. After work, I used to hang out with my friends and chat for hours, ignoring phone calls from my partner, Lindsey. I had this silly rule that if I was talking to someone, my phone wasn't more important. But as time went on, I realized that my behavior was causing more harm than good.
While I was chatting with my friends, Lindsey was at home taking care of our kids, wondering where I was and if I was okay. I wasn't considering her feelings, and I wasn't keeping her in the loop. As our relationship evolved, I began to understand the value of communication. Instead of ignoring her calls, I started sending her quick messages to let her know what I was doing, and she responded with kindness and understanding.
Through this experience, I learned that even a small act of communication can have a big impact on a relationship. It can prevent misunderstandings and build trust between partners. Join me in this episode as I share my personal story and discuss how better communication can improve your relationship too.
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046 | If you build it they will come!
Today's episode focuses on creating a business structure that can eliminate chaos and bring organization to your life. In the construction industry, it's common to start the day with a 20-minute huddle, but for those managing a sizable crew, the day often turns into a chaotic mess of putting out fires and fixing mistakes.
One of the keys to success is attracting the right people to your team, which involves creating a business that people would want to work for. This means creating a structure that promotes organization and order, which can help keep employees long-term.
If you're constantly operating in chaos, there's nothing to stop team members from looking for work elsewhere, where they can find a more structured and organized environment. By creating a structured business, you can offload tasks and responsibilities, which can help to make team members feel more included and valuable.
So, the question to ask yourself is, would you want to work for yourself? Creating a structured and organized business can attract the right people to your team and keep them there for the long term.
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045 | Nobody to Blame!
I want to talk to you about something that has been on my mind lately - the feeling of inadequacy and the struggle to learn.
Growing up, I never really enjoyed reading or learning. I didn't care much about it, and it wasn't until later in life that I realized the importance of education. It's tough to admit it, but my lack of desire to learn hurt me in the long run. I struggled with reading in public and felt inadequate and like I could never be more than just a laborer.
But I've come to a realization that I can't change the past. I have to move forward and take control of my own education. Nobody's coming to save me - if I want to improve my reading and spelling, I have to do it myself.
During this episode, I'll be sharing with you my personal experience with the struggle to learn and how it made me feel. I'll talk about the fear of judgment and the negative self-talk that held me back.
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044 | Stress & Burnout
As a small-town contractor and business owner myself, I know firsthand the stress and burnout that comes with running a business. When you're the one in charge, everything falls on your shoulders. You have to find your own customers, source materials, and handle taxes and payroll. It can be overwhelming, and there have been times when I've felt like throwing in the towel.
But despite the challenges, I believe that the benefits of owning a business far outweigh the cons. When you work for yourself, you have the opportunity to achieve greater financial and time freedom and to make decisions on your terms. It's true that there are still plenty of people involved - including customers, suppliers, and employees - but at the end of the day, the buck stops with you.
Of course, finding ways to streamline your processes and eliminate unnecessary stress is crucial. Without systems in place, it's easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day details and lose sight of the bigger picture. But for those who are willing to put in the work, the rewards can be significant. As a small-town business owner, I feel a deep sense of pride in what I've built, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
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043 | Scheduling & Timeline
In the construction industry, scheduling and timelines can be extremely difficult to plan due to frequent changes and delays on job sites, such as weather conditions or material shortages. I struggled with scheduling in the past because I would provide specific dates to clients only to find that the project took longer than anticipated. This resulted in constantly updating clients and rescheduling, causing stress and frustration for everyone involved. To avoid this problem, I began to provide more general timeline estimates. Additionally, I started using a Gantt chart to help visualize and track my timelines. This was a significant improvement over keeping everything in my head, as it gave me more mental clarity and allowed me to manage my projects better.
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042 | Ask Better Questions
Asking practical questions is crucial to obtain the desired information from your client, including their motivations for seeking a new product or service. However, it is insufficient to ask a cursory question merely; it is vital to care about their responses genuinely. Unfortunately, many contractors fail to recognize the significance of their clients' needs and neglect to ask the right questions. Such neglect may result in missing out on the project entirely. We must approach the bidding process with enthusiasm and a desire to learn to avoid this outcome. Continuously striving to improve our questioning skills is a never-ending task.
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041 | Going Rate
How frequently do we compare our rates with those charged by other competition in our local area? Do other companies know their financials, including whether they are making a profit or not? Unlike them, I am aware of my numbers and unwilling to work at a loss. I'd rather stay at home than make negative dollars. Focusing on marketing and communication skills renders price irrelevant. Therefore, instead of worrying about the rates charged by others, we should concentrate on determining our project costs and the value it has for us.
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040 | Rob Peter to pay Paul
The saying "rob Peter to pay Paul" is widely used due to the common issue of insufficient cash flow at the month-end to settle all obligations. Consequently, we tend to prioritize certain payments and defer others until later. I can relate to this struggle as I've faced a similar situation where my income was inadequate to cover all expenses, leading to undue stress. Contrary to the popular belief that money cannot solve problems, it can alleviate cash flow issues and mitigate the stress of unpaid bills. Therefore, the question arises of how to increase one's income to address financial challenges and settle debts.
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039 | Stop Digging
Do not continue digging the hole. It is common to mindlessly move in a direction without considering the intended destination, resulting in a fruitless outcome. This behavior is often called the definition of insanity - repeating the same actions but expecting different results. I have experienced this in my business ventures, where I failed to have a clear direction and continued to progress without progress. The same pattern applies to our relationships, where we tend to exacerbate conflicts by making unwise remarks and digging ourselves deeper into a hole.
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038 | Dominating the Competition
I discovered a valuable strategy for outshining my competitors through a book called 10X. Previously, I believed that simply staying on task was sufficient for success. However, after learning to prioritize being the first to reach potential customers and minimizing my bidding process, I gained an edge in acquiring clients. This minor alteration allowed me to take charge of the competition by securing jobs before they even had a chance to assess them.
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037 | Difficult Clients
Dealing with demanding clients can be a challenge, but it's important to remember that there are many good people to work with. Trusting your instincts and avoiding problematic individuals before starting a business relationship can save you a lot of trouble. However, if conflicts arise, it's essential to act quickly to resolve them. Simply waiting for time to pass is unlikely to be effective. To avoid conflicts, it's best to be proactive and address any issues head-on. Ultimately, both parties share the same goal - to create a successful project and enjoy the process.
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036 | Price vs. Value
Price is what you pay. Value is what you get. The deal is what you agree on and highlights the different components of a transaction. The price refers to the amount of money or other resources exchanged in the transaction, while the value is what the buyer perceives as the worth of the goods or services they receive. However, ultimately, the deal is what both parties agree to, and it can encompass more than just the price and value. The deal may include terms and conditions that specify the expectations and obligations of each party. Therefore, understanding the relationship between price, value, and the deal is crucial in any transaction, whether a simple purchase or a complex business deal.
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035 | Systems for Bookkeeping
Do you have a bookkeeping system in place? Initially, I was disorganized and didn't have a proper system. I procrastinated until the end of the year and burdened my wife with making sense of it all for our accountant. This wasn't fair to her and didn't allow me to establish the long-term systems necessary for growing my business. I wanted to get to the point where I could train a secretary to do my books, but I needed a solid understanding of my books and an established system before doing so.
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034 | Book your Jobs in the Winter
Consider booking your jobs in the winter. In the past, I noticed a trend where most individuals desired their projects to be completed in the fall or winter. Unfortunately, we could not meet their preferred timelines due to our high demand during those seasons. Therefore, I consciously concentrated my time and energy in the winter to secure as many jobs as possible for the upcoming year. My objective was to reserve 3 to 9 months of work ahead of my team, allowing us to navigate through slow periods when lead generation was limited. Rather than declining projects, I reframed our approach and suggested completing the jobs the following year, stacking our schedule accordingly.
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033 | Systems are better than Skills
Processes and systems are more effective than relying solely on one person's capabilities. Even if that individual is exceptionally skilled and quick, they can only accomplish so much daily. On the other hand, a team equipped with well-established processes and systems can achieve far more. A business with only one person cannot grow and generate revenue indefinitely. However, developing processes and systems to create multiple teams can allow the business owner to transition from being a worker to running a thriving enterprise. This approach provides the freedom to take time off while projects continue to be completed and generates income without requiring the owner to be physically present at the job site.
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032 | Make the Jump Sooner
Starting a construction business can be daunting, but in today's world, there are so many opportunities available that it's never been easier to leap. If you're sitting on the fence, wanting to start your own business but feeling hesitant, it's essential to ask yourself whether you're willing to live with the regret of not pursuing your dream for the rest of your life. Of course, starting a construction business won't be easy. It requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and adapt to changing circumstances. But with so much demand for construction services in today's economy, there's never been a better time to go after your dreams and start building a successful business. By taking the leap and starting your own construction business, you can be in control of your destiny and create a legacy that will last for generations to come.
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031 | Time Under Tension
Time under tension is a concept that refers to the amount of time that a muscle is kept under stress during a workout. However, it can also be applied to the world of business. Many people hesitate to start their own business, preferring to work for someone else as the second in command. But those willing to take the risk and stand their ground for an extended period can eventually become the primary business in their area. This requires consistency and persistence over five to ten years, during which time the business must adapt and grow to meet the changing needs of its customers. By staying committed and putting time under tension, entrepreneurs can succeed and build a lasting legacy in their communities.
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030 | Do you know your Numbers
Do you know your numbers? Do you know where your leads are coming from are you tracking the different types of projects you're doing to see what's most profitable? Do you have a system for the job status and moving them through your sales funnel?
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029 | Over & Under
The phrase "people overestimate what they can accomplish in one year and underestimate what they can accomplish in five years" is a common observation about human behavior. Many of us have high expectations and goals for the short term but often fail to consider the long-term perspective. We tend to underestimate the power of small, consistent actions over a longer period and their compounding effect on our achievements. In contrast, when we set long-term goals, we can focus on incremental progress and stay motivated over the long haul, leading to greater success. This phrase reminds us to be patient and persistent and to keep our eyes on the prize even when progress seems slow.
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028 | Make a Mess & Clean it Up
In the business world, it's common to shake things up with new systems, software, or ideas. However, this can often disrupt our regular flow and create chaos that requires cleaning up. It's similar to tearing off a roof - first, we create a mess, and then we need to figure out an efficient way to clean it up. Despite the initial disruption, we become more adept at streamlining the process each time we clean up after ourselves. For example, when we first tackle tasks such as running payroll, we inevitably make mistakes and create a mess. But through trial and error, we develop better systems and processes to clean up our mess and improve efficiency.
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027 | Attract Customers, not Fans
My goal is to draw in customers rather than just fans. I focus on informing my clients about my products and services rather than entertaining other industry workers. While I am not seeking a fan club, I recognize that utilizing social media platforms can help me reach a wider audience and attract more business in my desired area. Although it may not be enjoyable, it is necessary to leverage modern technology and promote me to ensure sufficient work for myself and my team members.
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026 No Good Workers
It's common to say that no good workers are available, and getting stuck in that mindset is easy. However, it's important to recognize that skilled and competent people are often already employed. Instead of blaming external factors, we should shift our focus inward and ask ourselves if we are the type of employer people want to work for. Have we built a sustainable business that would attract top talent? By taking this perspective, we can improve our chances of finding and retaining skilled workers.
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025 Where & Why
Two crucial questions to ask yourself are: where do you want to take your business, and why do you want to get there? There is no reason to aim for a destination without a clear purpose or desire. It's easy to lose direction when no target is in sight and even harder to hit without a specific aim. Therefore, taking the time to reflect on your life and business goals is crucial. Ask yourself, where do you want to go and why? Answering these questions will give you the necessary drive and direction to reach your desired destination.
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024 My Worldview
My previous worldview was filled with limiting beliefs that held me back. I believed that making a lot of money was impossible and that I had to work hard to get by. This narrow mindset kept me from enjoying life with the people around me and made me feel like my worth was limited. I felt like a lowly carpenter without much value to offer. Every rejection felt like a personal failure. But then I realized I had valuable skills and knowledge that could help people. I became more confident in myself and my abilities and was no longer desperate for work. I could choose the projects I wanted to work on. Through improved communication, I became more comfortable asking potential clients if they wanted to move forward with their projects. In short, I broke free from my old limiting beliefs and embraced new possibilities.
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023 Not Controlled by Money
Money is a powerful force that controls most of us. We may deny it, but we often have to choose between what we want to do and what we can afford. The key to breaking free from this control is to create value in the marketplace so that money comes to us in exchange for our services. Owning our own business is one way to achieve this, as it allows us to set our prices and work on our own terms. We should focus on creating abundance rather than living in scarcity and prioritize our long-term goals over short-term savings. Ultimately, we should strive to make money work for us rather than the other way around.
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022_ My Story
This episode focuses on sharing my journey of transitioning from an employee to a business owner, initially treating it as a side hustle. I discuss the early stages of starting and building my own business and the steps I took to make it sustainable. Additionally, I delve into how I shifted my focus to coaching other contractors to help them establish and grow their businesses. Overall, the episode is a firsthand account of my entrepreneurial journey and the valuable insights and lessons I've gained.
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021_Reacting vs. Responding
I aspire to become someone who responds rather than reacts. I recognize the danger of impulsive and immature knee-jerk reactions that lack careful consideration. My goal is to cultivate leadership skills, not simply boss others around. In all aspects of life, I strive to exercise wisdom and respond in a way that benefits the people I interact with and the circumstances I encounter.
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020 Tools you don't need
Using tools can significantly increase efficiency, but emotions can also influence purchasing decisions. To balance the emotional and logical sides of buying, contractors may consider whether a tool will make them more efficient on their current job list before making a purchase. Ultimately, the priority is providing for their family, making payroll, and keeping team members happy. Fear of purchase backlash from wives can be alleviated by having a clear process for assessing the value of a purchase. The goal is not to accumulate wealth but to have the freedom to experience life with loved ones.
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019_Why are LLCs important?
To mitigate liability risk, it is crucial to establish Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and adhere to proper protocols. By doing so, you can avoid personal liability. Maintaining a sound entity structure is also critical for ensuring accurate financial records. If you plan to sell your business in the future, having organized financial statements demonstrating consistent revenue and expenses is key. Lastly, it's imperative to safeguard your residence against any potential liability risks.
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018_Turning away work
Initially, I had to endure a mental process of rejecting job offers that didn't align with my desired line of work. At the outset, I undertook any work available, including constructing roofs, siding, and houses. However, as I gradually narrowed down my focus to building sheds exclusively, I aimed to reach a yearly goal of 12 to 24 shed constructions. Previously, I worked alone, and I completed 150 small-scale projects for various individuals, which required a significant amount of time commuting back and forth. However, once I specialized in shed building, my profitability increased significantly.
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017_Why do you do what you do?
I started my own business to enjoy various benefits, such as setting my schedule and earning as much money as possible. By owning a company, I can maintain a high standard for my organization and cultivate a culture where team members genuinely love their work. I must create an environment where employees can progress and advance in their roles and where we consistently strive for excellence. Additionally, I aspire for our company to have a strong sense of family and togetherness within our culture.
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016_Plan for Expansion
Planning for expansion is essential to accommodate growth. Consider the example of large companies that can efficiently employ labor from any source. Their success is their organizational efficiency, clearly defined roles, job descriptions, and workflows. These factors play a vital role in facilitating the growth of any organization. It is imperative to have a well-laid plan in place to ensure your business continues to grow even after your departure. This would help sustain your family and provide for them in your absence.
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015_Connections with other contractors
Networking with other contractors is crucial in the construction industry. It allows you to build relationships and gain recommendations for specific services while providing opportunities for others to recommend you. By forming these mutually beneficial connections, companies can avoid the adverse effects of competition and instead focus on collaborating to ensure enough work for all contractors.
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014_Standers core values
Standards and core values are crucial for various aspects of our lives, such as our standard of living, beliefs, company, and family. These principles guide our actions and decisions, ensuring that we adhere to a set of guidelines we have established for ourselves. In terms of our standard of living, our standards and values determine the quality of life we lead. Regarding beliefs, our values help us make sense of the world and provide us with a moral compass. For companies, standards ensure that they provide quality products and services while maintaining ethical practices. Similarly, for families, standards help establish expectations and boundaries, which fosters a healthy and cohesive environment. Therefore, having standards and core values is essential for leading a fulfilling life and building a thriving community.
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013_ Right and Wrong
The impact of these four questions has been significant to me. They are: What am I doing right? What am I doing wrong? What areas do I need to improve on? And, who do I need to become to reach my full potential? These questions can be applied in various facets of life, such as marriage, parenting, and business, and serve as valuable tools for self-reflection and personal growth.
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012 Definition of Insanity
The widely known definition of insanity is repeating the same actions repeatedly while expecting
a different outcome. However, I am determined to improve and strive towards my full potential continuously. Whether being the best possible husband and father, leading my team more effectively, or pursuing personal growth, I am committed to always reaching for better and never settling for mediocrity.
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011_Fear of keeping Employees Busy
Contractors often struggle to ensure a consistent workload for their employees. The responsibility of managing a team can be daunting, but having a competent group of individuals who can handle the day-to-day tasks of a job can provide a sense of relief. By delegating responsibilities through job descriptions and defined roles, contractors can free up time to focus on the strategic growth of their business rather than being bogged down in the day-to-day operations.
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010_ Uniforms
Uniforms can be essential for small-town contractors as they can help project a professional image and provide a sense of unity among team members. By wearing uniforms, contractors can create a consistent and recognizable brand image to help them stand out in their community. Additionally, uniforms can help build trust with clients by signaling that the contractor takes their work seriously and values professionalism. Uniforms can also help ensure that employees are easily identifiable on a job site, improving safety and security. Overall, uniforms can be a worthwhile investment for small-town contractors looking to enhance their reputation and build a successful business in their community.
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009 Follow-Up Process
The bidding follow-up process is particularly critical for small-town contractors as it can be the difference between winning or losing a project. Following up on bids demonstrates the contractor's commitment to the project and helps build a positive reputation with potential clients. By following up, contractors can address any concerns or questions the client may have, ultimately increasing their chances of being awarded the project. Moreover, a well-executed follow-up process can help small-town contractors establish themselves as reliable and trustworthy partners for future projects. By prioritizing the bidding follow-up process, contractors can maximize their opportunities to secure new business and continue to grow in their local community.
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008 | Communication
Revolutionize your contracting business with the power of effective communication. In a world where many contractors struggle with answering phones and returning calls, stand out by being organized and responsive. Make a lasting impression on your team and customers and secure the jobs you want. Master the art of communication and see your business thrive!"
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007 | Marketing
Unlock your business's full potential with effective marketing. Discover the endless possibilities of reaching and connecting with people who have never heard of your brand. Share your unique value proposition and create a lasting impression without ever saying a word. Elevate your marketing game today and see the difference it can make for your business!
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006 | Niching
Discover the difference between specializing in one type of project. Not only will it simplify your team's training process, but it will also make your bidding process smoother and more appealing to your ideal customer. By narrowing your focus to a specific area, you'll be able to stand out and deliver the best results possible. Embrace the benefits of niching and elevate your business today!"
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005 | Job Costing
Optimize your contractor business with the power of effective job costing. Reverse engineer your process to determine your income goals and the number of jobs needed to achieve them. Take control of your business success and reach your financial targets with ease. Master the art of job costing!
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004 | Healthy Habits
Transform your health and shape your future with the power of healthy habits. Say goodbye to the negative effects of unhealthy choices and hello to a brighter tomorrow. Join the journey of those taking small yet impactful steps toward long-term wellness goals. Invest in yourself and your health today!
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003 | Taking Control Take control of your time and life with the freedom of owning your own business. Make a difference for yourself and your family by having the ability to show up in the way you truly want. Embrace the power of entrepreneurship and create a brighter future for those you love. Optimize your life with the power of entrepreneurship today!
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002 | Templates
Say goodbye to repetitive tasks and forgotten items on the job. Get organized with our solution and save valuable time for you and your customers. Don't let disorganization hold you back - optimize your workflow today!
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001 Mindset of Subcontractors
Join us on a journey of growth and success in building a business with our latest podcast episode. Our host Paul Osmundosn shares his personal experience of starting with subcontractors and realizing the limitations it presents in reaching long-term goals. Come long for the journey and hear about his challenges as he decided to shift his mindset and build a team!
Get inspired to transform your own business into a thriving and fulfilling venture. Learn from Paul’s experiences to create a sustainable business that benefits himself, his family, and his team members. Discover the power of a strong team and its impact on reaching your long-term goals and life.
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