Thank You Notes
By Michael StoneI’m a strong proponent of thank you notes. We received a creative note from a contractor the other day.
Close Out Package
By Michael StoneAs you’re walking out the door on a finished project, you want your clients to remember you as the company that went the extra step for them.
Watermelons and Sales Leads
By Michael StoneYou might not think of watermelons, but one of our clever coaching clients shared a method he’s used to attract new leads for his business.
Connecting with Potential Clients
By Michael StoneIf you aren’t getting a response to your advertising, either printed or on the web, you aren’t connecting with your potential clients. You must connect with them.
Bigger doesn’t always mean more profitable
By Michael StoneOften when I talk with contractors, I hear, "I want to grow my company so I can make more money." Consider this, if size mattered, dinosaurs would still be here.
There’s Nothing Like a Handwritten Note
By Michael StoneSomeone asked the other day about sending cards or notes to old clients. They wanted to know what could be said that would be of interest to the client.
Your Employee Manual — Time to Review and Update!
By Michael StoneWe are rapidly approaching the time of year when you should review and update your employee manual.
Focus Your Construction Business on the Profitable Jobs
By Michael StoneThe ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius said, "The man who chases two rabbits catches neither."
Overhead Expenses in Accounting Software
By Michael StoneI was reminded again this week by a dear friend who is an expert in the use of QuickBooks of the necessary care that needs to be taken when you set up your accounting.
Price Your Construction Jobs Correctly
By Michael StoneIf you are tired of starving because you have enough work but don’t have the money to pay your bills, heed these words.
Construction Employees – It’s Break Time!
By Michael StoneAt the start of break, the crew jumped in a truck, drove 15 minutes to a doughnut shop, had coffee and a doughnut or two, drove 15 minutes back to the job site.
Specialize in Construction – Stay Focused
By Michael StoneAfter working with a few hundred coaching clients, I believe that the key to profitability in construction is staying focused on doing a few things well.
How Much Do You Pay the Owner?
By Michael StoneDuring a recent class I taught, it was clear many in the audience didn’t understand that their sales volume must be enough to support the salary of the company owner.
Rent or Purchase Construction Equipment?
By Michael StoneDo you rent or buy your tools or equipment? Here is a quick and dirty rule to follow. Don’t tie up money in tools and equipment that seldom gets used.
Customer Furnished Materials
By Michael StoneA recent note said, "The client wants to furnish all the materials. They are going to give me the money to go buy the materials, should I add my markup on the materials?"