Two Industrial-Grade Tips For Managing Your Workflow

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Most licensed contractors in California have two types of schedules: “too busy” and “not busy enough.” When you’re just starting out, the idea of having more work than you can handle might seem like a great thing, but the reality is that striking a balance – having enough projects to stay profitable without overburdening yourself – is extremely important. Too much work can cause as many problems as too little.

At the same time, you can’t afford to let details slip away. Forgetting to order important materials, not submitting invoices or tax payments on time, or simply failing to return a phone call can all carry expensive consequences.
With that in mind, here are two of our best, industrial-grade tips for managing your workflow as a professional California contractor:

1. Build and use a reliable system. We have seen successful contractors that use note cards, Post-it reminders, software packages, and even smartphone apps to help them manage names, addresses, lists, and so on. It doesn’t really matter what kind of system you use, as long as you have one that’s reliable, easy for you to update continuously, and can be backed up for safekeeping. Obviously, that’s easiest to accomplish with software or apps these days, but use whatever you’re most comfortable with. There isn’t anything wrong with a pen-and-paper system if it works for you.

2. Make sure you have visual reminders of “big picture” items. In addition to your system for managing details, you should have a grease board or other visual reminder that lists important projects and priorities. By seeing it every day (or at least each time you step into the office), you don’t have to worry that you’ll stop thinking about the things that matter most in your business.

As you put your board together, remember that it doesn’t just have to be for construction projects. You can also post personal agenda items, like continuing your education or taking a vacation with your family, that are just important to remember.
Managing your time, tasks, and details can help you make more money as a contractor, but also avoid a lot of stress. Give these ideas a try and see if they don’t make you more effective each and every day.

CSLS is the leader in California construction education. Whether you want to become a licensed contractor or just take the next step in your career, now is the perfect time to check our list of upcoming classes.