Looking for a Subcontractor?
Friday, July 21, 2006
Contractors -- no matter what your speciality is, sometimes you need to find a subcontractor to handle a different job for you on the site. Or, if you're a GC, you're always on the lookout for subs.
We wanted to let you know that you can use ConstructionDeal.com to find subcontractors! Just go to our Main Page and post your Job Request... just like our Property Owners do! The tricky part: you'll need to use a different email address from the one you used to Register or Subscribe with us. Subs can be found by posting your request on our "Home Addition" category. Simply fill out the "pulldown" menus about the job and then check off the types of subcontractors you need. It doesn't matter if the job is residential or commercial, you can still use the "Home Addition" category.
The best part -- it's Free for you to find the right subcontractor for the job! It's another way that we're here to help you.
We wanted to let you know that you can use ConstructionDeal.com to find subcontractors! Just go to our Main Page and post your Job Request... just like our Property Owners do! The tricky part: you'll need to use a different email address from the one you used to Register or Subscribe with us. Subs can be found by posting your request on our "Home Addition" category. Simply fill out the "pulldown" menus about the job and then check off the types of subcontractors you need. It doesn't matter if the job is residential or commercial, you can still use the "Home Addition" category.
The best part -- it's Free for you to find the right subcontractor for the job! It's another way that we're here to help you.
Are Construction & Remodeling Trade Shows an Option?
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Exhibiting at trade shows is a way of life in the construction and remodeling industry. Is a trade show right for your small-to-medium-sized business? Can your company afford to lose sales opportunities, or even your skills on the job? Chances are there’s at least one local major show each year so it’s a good idea to consider several factors on exhibiting your company.
The location of the show is important, because you’ll have to factor in travel time and expenses; a close show is better for the small business owner. Quality seminars are important. If you’re taking the time to go, you want to make sure you can also attend seminars to learn about new products or techniques. Check out the list of exhibitors – if you competitors are there, it’s important for you to have a presence as well. And check the list to find possible partners that can give you networking possibilities. Speaking of networking, make sure the show has ample opportunities for social events after the show. The events give you a chance to network with suppliers, partners, manufacturers, and friends.
Large companies can afford to lose the boss or to send a representative, but smaller service professional firms need to make strategic decisions. Trade shows can bring new clients, promote brand awareness, allow for networking, and provide for face-to-face meetings to connect with the industry. Weigh the potential gain against losses your company may face before you sign up for the show. Decide if it’s absolutely necessary to exhibit. If you decide to go, make sure you make the most of the investment.
Maintaining a Relationship with the Homeowner
Monday, July 17, 2006
No matter what category you're an expert in, you'll always be working against high expectations. The old saying that the "Customer is Always Right" is not always true, as you may know. But consider how much your clients have invested in the work you're doing for them. Not just the money, either. As service professionals, you’re working on the most important thing in your clients' lives – their property. Whether you remodel their business or put on a new roof on their home, your clients are emotionally invested in the work you do.Disagreements can turn into arguments and misunderstanding can turn to arbitration. Many service professionals scratch their heads at the reactions of many homeowners but it's essential to realize something: while your work is important to you, it's still a job. You can and should leave your work at work when you go home every night. But for your clients, their home is their life and they have to live with the work you do for them.
When dealing with clients, educate them on everything you'll be doing and how you'll do it. Let them know, honestly, how long it will take and how much it will cost. Give them your experience and lay out the facts when they demand a product you don't trust or a material you feel won’t work. The key is not to tell them they’re wrong, because they’re already emotionally charged, but to calmly empathize with their needs, their wants, and their dreams. Relay your experience, negotiate fairly, and don’t promise the moon – they'll remember you and, hopefully, refer you.
If you need more customers, join our network of service professionals today.
Proud of your Work?
For our contractors who have completed any recent projects -- send us some "Before and After" pictures! We'd be happy to display the quality work from any of the members of our construction network.
Email us your digital photos to blog@constructiondeal.com and make sure to send high quality (300 DPI) .jpegs or .gif files.
Thanks,
ConstructionDeal.com
(866) 663 - 4711
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