10 Good New Year’s Resolutions for Contractors
Surveys show that tens of millions of us have made resolutions this New Year’s, or at least set goals for ourselves that we’d like to meet in 2014. But, while a lot of these are personal in nature (like losing a few extra pounds, or finally quitting cigarettes), smart contractors make resolutions for their businesses, too.
In fact, here are 10 good New Year’s resolutions for every California contractor to make:
1. To spend a little more time on marketing. Lots of contractors enjoy their work, but hate the process of finding new clients and customers. Make marketing a part of your normal weekly routine, though, and you’ll always have as much business as you can handle.
2. To develop a great system for referrals. Most contractors get the majority of their work from referrals. From your business cards to contact management systems, make it easy for people to refer you to friends and colleagues – and for you to follow up.
3. To launch a new website (if you don’t have one already). Your website should have lots of great client quotes, a bit about your business, and a portfolio of completed construction projects.
4. To aim for 100% customer satisfaction. Every happy client can help you get more business, and every unhappy one has the potential to harm your reputation.
5. To learn a new construction specialty. The more you can do in your business, the more projects you’re qualified for, and the more you can charge as a licensed contractor. So, if you have an interest in another part of the industry, take some classes and expand your horizons.
6. To only work with the right customers and clients. Some people (both employees and clients) just aren’t worth the aggravation. If you feel a great deal of stress about working with a certain person, think about moving on without them.
7. To allow a little extra time for each project. When contractors rush, bad things tend to happen. Throw a little bit of extra time into each project and proposal, so you can do things the right way, and to everyone’s satisfaction.
8. To invest in your own business. Many contractors don’t like to spend money on their own businesses. That’s a mistake, because some expenses make your job easier and less time-consuming, or help you find bigger projects in the future.
9. To save money for the unexpected. Your savings account is your protection against slow work periods, equipment breakdowns, and other unexpected costs. Make sure to put away a percentage from each check you receive.
10. To take time off and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of being self-employed. Often, we get so busy running our company that we forget to enjoy all the great things about being self-employed. Remember to take a bit of time off when you can.
Do you have any good resolutions to add to our list? If so, contact CSLS and share your tips with us, or visit this page to see what courses and seminars we have coming up.
