Four Diamonds of Communication
Sales is about communicating and interacting positively with others. Those skills make life easier in any delicate conversation.
Hang On – Getting Through These Times
Michael Stone offers suggestions on how to keep your construction business strong during this Coronavirus emergency.
It’s Not For Us
Michael Stone shares about a note from a contractor who initially found the Markup & Profit Revisited book “too extreme” and “not for us” – but now realizes it makes sense.
Unclear Change Work Orders
Pricing changes for a change work order isn’t easy when the scope of work isn’t clear.
Time and Material Woes
Time and Material contracts are full of risk, especially on larger jobs.
Investing in Your Business
Constant input from others is necessary if you want to stay on top of both your business and your personal life.
Business or Charity?
If you’re a business owner and take on a project out of the goodness of your heart, recognize you might not get paid and will be funding the project.
Borrowing Jacks
I recently had to face what I thought would be an uncomfortable personal conversation. I fussed all morning, then went to visit the person involved.
Payment Methods
I don’t think writing a check is old fashioned, but there are so many advantages to using a credit or debit card that it’s become the preferred payment method for many.
Protect Your Time
Some people are used to snapping their fingers and having others jump. It’s irritating, but you have to remember that they’re writing the checks.
Clear Sales Communication; It’s Your Responsibility
I want to share a recent phone conversation with a contractor concerning a problem they were having with a client.
Hiring a Salesperson
I’m a firm believer in treating salespeople well. When they’re treated well, they’ll sell. When they sell, you win.
Let’s Discuss an Acceptable Hourly Rate . . .
This note is a painfully perfect example of why you shouldn’t provide details on your pricing.
About Your Exorbitant Markup . . .
From a contractor: “I am definitely going to do a better job in pre-selecting my clients after this one.”
Words from an Expert on Hiring Contractors
A contractor sent us an online article written by a real estate investor with the purpose of educating you on “how to develop a fair relationship with your contractor.”
Final Payments and Guarantees
When clients try to change the terms of the contract, you don’t have to go along.