Every successful business owner will tell you that you need to be getting a little better every day in every way. Businesses require constant tending and nurturing if they are to grow. Here is a list of improvements you can make to your construction business to help it to grow from strength to strength.
Of course, you can’t do all of these at once, so try and add a couple to your ‘To Do’ list each month. If you find you are too busy to work on the bigger picture, it may be time to share some of your managerial responsibilities.
Be a good listener: Ego often gets in the way on a jobsite, but being a good listener will help to improve communication with your homeowners and designers which means fewer mistakes and costly call backs.
Listening to manufacturers, trades and colleagues; you may have tons of experience or skill, but there is always a better, faster and cleaner way to do things. Listening to advice is a great way to keep improving your processes and skills.
Make a list, check it twice: Create a comprehensive build plan prior to starting a new project. There are many apps and software programs for small to medium construction firms that will help with project planning and management. Once you have a plan, stick to it and try to keep on schedule.
Tradition isn’t always good: Just because you’ve been doing something in the same way for 30 years, doesn’t mean you are doing it right! Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations before using new materials to ensure that you are working to their specifications.
Always listen to suggestions about ways to do things differently; construction is growing and developing constantly and there are always faster and better ways of doing things that can save you time and money.
Focus on the big picture: Don’t get lost in the minutia of running your business; take time to look at the big picture. Hire the right people, continuously train employees, always be on the lookout for new trades and educate yourself on new materials and equipment. Always be working towards a goal for your business so that you keep growing and improving.
Work on waste: Regularly analyze your costs and call backs. Knowing where you are losing money will help you to reduce waste and improve your profit margins. Strive to be leaner and greener. Check the waste pile; maybe a small plan change can eliminate waste and reduce tipping charges.