Hammer & Grind

Do you have a target you are going after or are you just responding to the things that come up on a day to day basis? If you don't define what you want, you won't achieve the life that you want.In this episode, we talk about:Making external excuses so you can justify the internal problem Looking externally at a goal so you can internally figure out what you need to doFiguring out what life you want and the steps to achieve this One of Brad's big goals he wants to pursue Why your business is a tool, not your masterRealizing you need to do something different, when you have a plan in placeMentioned:RPG Coffee - https://links.hammerandgrind.com/rpg-coffeeLinks to Resources:Get the skills and confidence to:Max out profitsGet off the toolsHave more freedomGet the business you deserve - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Facebook Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When having conversations with others, especially customers, do you ever find yourself feeling stuck when they hit you with objections? Today we will look at a list of magic phrases you can use to help influence those you are speaking with. In this episode, we talk about:The best 23 sayings you can use to influence and impact your conversations with othersRemoving stress points that your customer may haveDiffusing awkward situations by getting others to share what they already knowBringing out emotions in a genuine wayCreating a picture in their mind by getting them to imagine thingsBeing bold enough to call customers out on their indecisionPrompting customers to ask you questionsThe need to fully understand your customer's objectionsThe most powerful word tracks you should use in any conversationMentioned:The Book - Exactly What to SayBrad's Top Book ListEmail me your book suggestions: info@hammerandgrind.comLinks to Resources:Get the skills and confidence to:Max out profitsGet off the toolsHave more freedomGet the business you deserve - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Facebook Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your brand promise is the single most important factor of why people do business with you.In this episode, we talk about:Separating yourself by defining your brandThe formula that makes up a brand promiseThe quality of customer experience versus the quality of workDelivering a consistent experience with your clients How to be a brand disruptorWhy marketing doesn't take a day offLinks to Resources:Get the skills and confidence to:Max out profitsGet off the toolsHave more freedomGet the business you deserve - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Facebook Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever been so overwhelmed with the problems that arise in your business, that you feel like your hair is on fire? Today, we discuss some common problems that contractors face and some ways you can solve them.In this episode, we talk about:Not taking the proper steps before you scale your businessHow big thinkers can wear out their teamReacting to different problems everyday and going down the rabbit holeWhy you need to create a priority boardAlways including your team when making changesMaking decisions based on data not emotionMentioned:RPG Coffee - https://lddy.no/1eey7Links to Resources:Get the skills and confidence to:Max out profitsGet off the toolsHave more freedomGet the business you deserve - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Facebook Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you want a successful 2023, then now is the time to take action and set measurable goals. Once you set those goals, then you need to be intentional about them.In this episode, we talk about:Why you need to set a gross profit goal and how to do itTracking sales goals versus tracking revenue goalsA free, powerful worksheet to help you stay on track of your business goalsOverestimating the good and underestimating the badWhy you must track real dataThe importance of having accountability Links to Resources:Get the skills and confidence to:Max out profitsGet off the toolsHave more freedomGet the business you deserve - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Facebook Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Getting off the tools doesn't just happen from one day to the next. You have to have a plan in place to get there. You need to start preparing for this transition, now.In this episode, we talk about:The reason 96% of contractors fail within their first 10 years of businessThe 3 main things you need in place before you can get off the toolsThe difference between being a craftsman and being an ownerBecoming the type of boss that top players want to work forFinancial requirements needed in order to transition into your new positionImportant systems you must have in place before getting off the toolsAn easy way to start creating the systems for your businessMentioned:Episode 79 - Effective CommunicationEpisode 90 - How To Be a Recruiting PowerhouseFree Worksheet to Get Off The Tools - Join FREE groupLinks to Resources:Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit ClubJoin the Free Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator FREE Profit Calculator Our WebsiteFacebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we welcome back Certified Financial Planner, Mark Willis, to explain how you can have full control over the money you invest. Mark discusses some financial tools you can use that are tax free, don't rely on the volatile stock market, and offer cash outs at whatever age you need your money.In this episode, we talk about:Why the average way to diversify is not smart and full of risksThe crazy invasion of privacy from the IRSAll the cons to typical investment vehicles, like the 401KWhere the real wealth comes from in owning real estateComparing traditional whole life insurance policies to a new type of whole life insurancePublicly traded insurance companies versus mutually owned insurance companiesHow you can have tax free access to money with baked in guaranteesThe steps Mark walks people through when helping them plan for the futureMentioned:Mark's SiteNot Your Average Financial PodcastLinks to Resources:Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit ClubJoin the Free Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator FREE Profit Calculator Our WebsiteThe Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you feeling stuck when it comes to marketing? In today's episode, Brad offers a comprehensive list of 33 ways you can market your business.In this episode, Brad talks about:Ways you can optimize your Google listingResponding to every single review you receive, even the bad onesWhy vehicle wraps work and why you need oneBlog articles - They take effort but are well worth the timeThe best networking group to be a part ofThe types of outbound communication that will generate connections and businessOther long term strategies to grow your businessLinks to Resources:Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit ClubJoin the Free Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator FREE Profit Calculator Our WebsiteThe Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you a problem solver or are you just in the business of making money? If you want to be successful, then you need to be in the problem solving business.In this episode, we talk about:Why it's 100% your fault that customers are using youCaring about what is best for the clientApproaching new prospectsHow you can help customers make the right decisionsMaking it clear that you know about your industryMentioned:Book - Gap Selling Links to Resources:Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit ClubJoin the Free Group - The Contractor Profit BlueprintTake Your Sales to The Next Level - Sales Accelerator FREE Profit Calculator Our WebsiteThe Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part of having a successful contracting business is knowing how to hire the right people. However, it doesn't just stop at hiring. You must also collaborate and develop your team along the way. Today's guest, Nathan France, explains how to do exactly that. In this episode, we talk about: How Nathan's upbringing gave him the drive he still has today The 5 core beliefs of recruiting Creating an employee avatar Identifying what is important to your employees The power of collaborating with your team Why you need to have full transparency in your business Having company culture and philosophies in place Bringing about what you think about Mentioned: Nathan's Website Nathan's email: nathan@tjconstructionmn.comBooks by Tony JearyBook - Scars and StripesBook - Across the Fence Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

If you want to win in your contractor business, then you need to look inward and make the changes necessary to be successful. Brad shares useful tips from the book, With Winning in Mind, and also proposes a challenge to help you improve your mindset. In this episode, we talk about: Why 90% of your performance is mental Becoming better without realizing it Exchanging your old self image for a desired one Why you need to stop worrying Positive Prediction - What is it and why is it important Identifying your habits and attitudes that you need to change  Mentioned: Book - With Winning In Mind Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Do you want to grow your wealth in a way that is safe and predictable? Mark Willis wants you to know that you can make your money work for you. Mark is a Certified Financial Planner, best selling author, and co-host of “Not Your Average Financial Podcast.” In this episode, we talk about: Giving people assurance they will meet their financial objectives The uncertain times we are in due to very low markets Making your money work for you What a good financial team looks like Being born into a world called “money” The real way to diversify A particular form of Whole life insurance and why you need it Why Dave Ramsey may be wrong Mentioned: Mark's SiteNot Your Average Financial PodcastBook - Perpetual Wealth Book - Bank on Yourself Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

 When you have your own business, there will be pains along the way. When things really suck, don't give up. You gotta keep going with it. This advice comes from Luke Henningsen of Henningsen Property Management in Southeast Wisconsin. In this episode, we talk about: Hitting the glass ceiling as an employee How Luke's mowing business turned into a landscaping business Failing quickly and moving forward The camaraderie and support across the green business How he runs the mowing side of the business versus the landscaping side The future of robots in the contractor industry Recognizing your long term goal and focusing on it Mentioned: HPM's Facebook HPM's Website HPM email - contact@hpmlandscapes.com Book - Never Split the Difference Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Sales is not what 99% of Contractors think it is. Sales is not about convincing prospects for YOUR benefit. It is about persuading them for THEIR benefit. In this episode, we talk about: Why you need to change the framework in which you view sales Quality - It is important but it does not sell jobs Making a personal connection Not trying to convince people to like or hire you What you need to do in order to create that connection with the prospect Connecting to other humans on an emotional level Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

There are many ways you can go wrong in your contracting business, especially when you first start. Brad shares the Top 5 Biggest Mistakes he made and how you can avoid making the same ones. In this episode, we talk about: Starting out as a handyman and why that was the wrong business model Figuring out what went right and what went wrong Needing different skills and tools for each service you offer What causes the downward spiral of wasting money Why you need to be training and praising employees Getting coached by the right people The reason Brad transitioned into coaching instead of being a contractor Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

As contractors, we not only want to have healthy businesses but we also want to have healthy relationships with the people in our lives. In order to do this, we need to improve our physical health. Today's guest, Myles Would, explains how we can have more energy to show up for our businesses, our families, and ourselves. In this episode, we talk about: Myles' experience working in the landscaping business before becoming a fitness trainer The minimum number of days one should work out Why you should avoid working out in the evening Eating before and after workouts What blue collar workers should eat for lunch during the workday The relationship between mindset and movement How visualizing your future can convict you to change Letting go of old beliefs and habits in order to adopt new ones Mentioned: The Winner's Mindset Fitness Community Myles Would Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Your mindset matters to how successful you will be in your business and in your overall life. If you want to find yourself in a better situation, then you need to change your mindset. In this episode, Brad talks about: The difference between having a “fixed mindset” and a “growth mindset” Limiting beliefs and how they can cause negative frameworks Deciphering between garbage and gold Why frameworks are so important Relieving some of the pressure off yourself Taking inventory of what you believe and what you want to believe Being intentional with how you spend your time and who you spend it with Surviving and thriving Mentioned: Mindset by Carol Dweck Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Are you a General Contractor who wants a strong working relationship with a Sub-Contractor, or vice versa? Then there are a few key things you need to be doing in order to obtain their loyalty. In this episode, Brad talks about: Putting yourself in their shoes Approaching subcontractors with respect - Do not treat them like your children Understanding that just because someone is available does not mean they are a good fit Why you should not have non-compete clauses and contracts Paying subcontractors on time and paying them more money Giving subcontractors consistent work The one very important question you need to be asking your subcontractors Mentioned: Listen to Episode 79: Effective Communication Links to Resources: PROFIT CLUB BONUS - Click this link and send me a message including the words “Profit Club Bonus” - http://m.me/hammerandgrindpodcast Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club Join the Free Group - The Contractor Profit Blueprint FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Do you consider your profession to be your identity? If so, then you need to change your mindset. What you do, is NOT who you are. In this episode, Brad talks about: Not taking things personally when someone speaks poorly about your trade Feeling lost when you no longer do the profession you identify with Recognizing the differences between “ego” and “pride” The three reasons why ego is your enemy Compartmentalizing different areas of our lives Why your profession is NOT your identity - even if you love what you do Links to Resources: PROFIT CLUB BONUS - Click this link and send me a message including the words “Profit Club Bonus” - http://m.me/hammerandgrindpodcast Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Join our Facebook group Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Contractor: You need to stop hanging your hat on quality and start hanging your hat on customer experience. In this episode, Brad talks about: How people remember service longer than they remember quality of the product Why it is a good thing that customer service is dead Pricing jobs correctly to ensure you do not cheapen the overall experience for your customer Hiding behind contracts due to poor communication skills Getting better at business even if you suck now Making sure the client enjoys the sales process Examples of effective project management Why the production team is a vital part of customer service How any feedback from customers, good or bad, is valuable information Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Join our Facebook group Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

As business owners, a skill we must develop and improve is our communication skills. Brad shares the top five qualities needed to get our messages across as well as the five core elements of effective communication. In this episode, Brad talks about: Making your message relatable by giving examples or telling stories Repeating your message on a frequent basis Showing gratitude when communicating with customers and employees Removing roadblocks - Make the process easy for your customers Why you need to stop making assumptions How questions are pure gold for your business data Providing context to your team about why you do certain things Mentioned:Hemingway EditorSimon Sinek Book: Start with Why Links to Resources: Make more money, Save more time, Create a winning business - Join the Profit Club FREE Profit Calculator Our Website The Discord Channel Join our Facebook group Facebook Page Instagram Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Seeking help to improve your business is not an expense. It is an investment. Brad shares why your self-worth = your net worth. In this episode, Brad talks about: How he lost money in the past - He didn't know what job costing was Negative impacts of not investing in oneself Poor financial advice and how it is reckless to your business How ego prevented him from seeking help in his business in the beginning Executing on the new information you obtain  Mentioned: Calculator - https://theprofitclub.hammerandgrindpodcast.com/potential-profit-calculator Links to Resources: Want to make more money, save more time, and create a winning business? Join the Profit Club Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Shane Robinson has been in business for five years now, and shares why it is so important for business owners to be open-minded and invest in business education. In this episode, Brad and Shane talk about: Why having a turnkey operation will ensure guaranteed outcomes Being honest with customers about the way one operates and be willing to set boundaries about the jobs one will do Newer contractors and their tendency to not prepare financially for economic recessions Numerous benefits to hiring an office manager and how this can increase your revenue The way to find the right employees for a crew Constantly learning from others and expanding one's skills to improve the business Mentioned: Lester Buildings - https://www.lesterbuildings.com/ Building a Story Brand (Marketing Book) - https://buildingastorybrand.com/ Shane's company website - https://wycam.net/ Links to Resources: Want to make more money, save more time, and create a winning business? Join the Profit Club Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

As a contractor, you may not realize that social media is an extremely important aspect to your business. Not only do you need to be active on social media platforms, but you need to have a strategy that works! In this episode, Brad talks about: Recognizing what social media platform your clients are using the most A quick tip to avoid losing your original content that you spent time creating Paying attention to the changes that are taking place with social media platforms - Tik Tok is growing like crazy Why Facebook is still the best choice for contractors Educating and entertaining with social media content, instead of selling How behind-the-scenes content is a great tool for gaining customers and potential employees Links to Resources: Want to make more money, save more time, and create a winning business? Join the Profit Club Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Are you scaling your business or scaling problems? Travis Gunter shares his journey of building a remodeling business, the ups and downs of hiring subcontractors, and the value of having a growth mindset! In this episode, we talk about… Details about Travis' business structure and creating a system to complete multiple jobs simultaneously Transitioning from a small handyman company to a remodel construction business Negative impact from the shortage of skilled contractors on the trade industry Tips about responding to both good and bad reviews Charging the maximum amount and aiming to be the most expensive contractor in town What Travis looks for when hiring subcontractors and why communication is #1 Invest in learning because being a good tradesman doesn't make you a good business owner Book Recommendations: Never Split the Difference-Chris Voss The E-Myth Revisited -Michael E. Gerber Advice about preparing for the future now Links to Resources: Travis on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@butters_highsierra High Sierra Remodel Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/highsierraremodel/ High Sierra Remodel Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/highsierraremodel Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

When you waste time, you lose money! Listen to learn how to create solid systems that will hold your team accountable, grow your business, and save you time and money. In this episode, we talk about… Foundation of Creating Systems in Your Business: 1. Start with a rough draft or outline with the problem you want solved at the top. 2. Create a checklist of the steps it takes to address the problem—get specific. 3. Implement it and make changes as needed. 2 Ways to Create Checklists for Your System: 1. Make the checklist and ask your team for feedback and input. 2. Call a meeting with your team and create the checklist together. Bonus Tip: Let your team add ideas, try them, fail so they can learn what works. Learn to give up control to have the business you want Put your expectations in writing, either on paper or digitally, to establish accountability Suggestions for Software to Create Systems:Workflowy Projul Be ready to invest up front to save time and money in the long run Advice to schedule time on your calendar to work on systems and which system to start with first Comment on a Hammer & Grind's social media what system you will implement next using #SYSTEM Links to Resources: 100 Free Items from Workflowy - https://workflowy.com/invite/88f269a1.lnx Projul - https://projul.com/hammerandgrind/ Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Are you intentional about everything you do? Robert Molinet discusses why being intentional matters, how to make sure that what you do is always the right thing, and how it can transform your life. In this episode, we talk about… Why being intentional matters, and how you can use it to change your life How to pay attention and be intentional with our daily lives. Putting down the distractions — being intentional about taking your phone out of the bedroom Curating your day based on your priorities Tracking your habits to track your time and productivity The impact of our unintentional actions that are essentially our habits on others Being mindful of your thoughts and actions to create the intended results that you're after Being more intentional in the future and how to make the most of your time. Assessing the basics before looking at the big, broad things Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

A basic understanding of cash flow is critical to achieving financial success in any business. It is the lifeblood of your business. It's what keeps you going from day to day. To manage your business smoothly, you need to know where your money is and where it should go. Tune in to know the 4 C's of cash flow. In this episode, we talk about… The conventional approach to money management and what's wrong with it Understanding how to manage cash flow The 4 C's of cash flow that will help you stay afloat and grow: Charge — Make sure you're charging enough money for your business and the jobs you're doing. The more money that you make, the more options you have. Carry — Make sure you're carrying your liabilities by having more money in the bank. Collect — Collect more money than you're paying out during the process of your jobs, and the last invoice should not exceed 10% of the total payment. Conserve — Don't spend all your money because you think you are earning enough. You have to prepare for the unexpected. Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

It's time to stop making excuses and take responsibility for what's happening in your business. Listen to learn 3 reasons preventing you from winning and what you can do about them now! In this episode, we talk about… 3 Reasons Preventing You From Winning: 1. You haven't decided to win 2. You want to be a victim 3. You won't get help because of your ego and mindset How to Make the Decision to Win:Be relentless in what you decide to do - write down your goals every day Find out what you want. Create a plan. Work the plan every single day. Your brain will back up whatever you believe-let go of the scarcity mindset Kill off your ego and allow your mindset to receive new information Do the boring stuff in your business in the best way possible- know your numbers Stop making excuses and make your priorities around winning Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Where you're at in your business is 100% up to you. Listen to learn how to get out of the Crazy Cycle today and create the business you want! In this episode, we talk about… Defining what the Crazy Cycle is and why you must get out now Common mistakes contractors make with pricing Why charging more money is an easier way to run a business Create the business you want that will support the lifestyle you want The importance of having a growth mindset vs. limiting beliefs 3 Different types of people classes and mindsets in a recession: 1. People who love recessions-opportunity to buy everything at a discount 2. People who are scared of recessions- won't want to spend a dime on anything 3. People with an abundance mindset- don't care about price because they have money to spend regardless of recession Stop finding a price that works for the customer. Find customers that work for your price. Why job costing, knowing your numbers, and 50% gross profit is key to a successful business Why you must charge a 100% markup to have the business you want Remember: As you elevate your prices, elevate your customer experience as well Benefits of joining the Profit Club and using the Profit Sales System Challenge: Add 10% to your next job bid and see what happens Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Whether you're a tile contractor or not, listen to learn the value of doing work the right way the first time and being intentional in your business. In this episode, we talk about… What inspired Luke to launch a podcast specific to the tile industry How tile installation processes change depending on where you're located Luke's favorite parts of tiling and why he expanded into Tile Nation Understanding tile licensing and why it needs more regulation Biggest issue that needs to change within the tile industry: Talking business and making the jump from employee to self-employed Remembering you're in charge of your profitability Advice for tile contractors: Listen to the Tile Money Podcast Join the National Tile Contractors Association Be intentional and apply what you learn Links to Resources: Tile Money - tilemoney.com Tile Nation - thetilenation.com Tile Nation Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the.tile.nation/ Tile Money Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tilemoney/ Tile Money Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/tilemoney Luke Miller - https://www.facebook.com/LukeTileMoneyMiller Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Are you working harder or working smarter? Stephan Foos dives into why it's time to ditch pencil and paper and invest in a solution that can scale your business! In this episode, we talk about… Pencil, paper, and folders: Signs your business is not scalable 2 types of contractors: Those who use tech and those who don't Understanding which solution actually answers your business's pain point Struggles contractors face transitioning from paper to digital Addressing common Big Brother tech concerns Why managing customers is just as important as managing a project Biggest benefit for contractors to switch to digital: Knowing your numbers What happens when you raise your prices How software can improve field management, scheduling, time tracking, and tasks Details about Projul and how it can help you stand out from your competitors Links to Resources: Projul Software - www.projul.com/hammerandgrind Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Managing your time effectively is essential for any business —it's an asset that can be lost if not utilized properly. Listen in to know why minding the time matters and how to make the most of your time while running the business. In this episode, we talk about… The three different times during the customer journey when you need to mind the time: The pre-selling time Post-sale to pre-start time Post job time The presale timeframe for minding time with the customer Advice on pre-qualifying the customer Some processes that you can use during the post-sale to pre-start period The things that will set you apart and allow you to charge premium prices Using Bonjoroapp and Nicejob to manage your business in a better way Tips on providing a unique customized user experience Links to Resources: Bonjoro - https://www.hammerandgrind.com/bonjoro Nicejob - https://nicejob.grsm.io/hammerandgrind Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Are you proactive or reactive when it comes to your business? Amy Payne breaks down how to increase productivity and save yourself time, frustration, and money by organizing your business with the right technology. In this episode, we talk about… Why Amy believes the only way to maintain and grow your business is to get organized Shifting from organizing physical spaces to organizing technology for businesses Advice for contractors to partner with professional organizing services Why storage spaces should be designed with a specific purpose Balancing technology for your business while maintaining a human connection Understanding organization is about living a proactive life vs. reactive life Suggestions for a collaborative approach to creating systems for your business Types of technology or software helpful for contractors: Accounting such as QuickBooks Project management such as Projul Customer relationship management or field service management such as Insightly Task management such as Evernote Encouragement to maximize the technology you already have to be more productive Remember: A good software does not solve a bad process Links to Resources: Amy Payne - www.lastingorder.net Email - amy@lastingorder.net Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LastingOrder/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lastingorder/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOu1n3WmZhex0MJRfAA9CWQ Projul Software - https://projul.com/hammerandgrind/ Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Do your brand colors create a positive reaction in your clients? Listen to learn why the colors you choose for your business matter and how to use colors to attract more customers. In this episode, we talk about… How Michelle chose the name for Visibility Vixen and why color is so important Finding your brand colors based on the emotion you want your clients to feel How colors can shorten your sales timespan and increase trust and awareness The value of using color consistently in ads and even in what you wear How different colors cause different reactions in our bodies Suggestions for mixing up your personal color palette to find what works Improving your brand by focusing on conversions, logo, and colors Researching how to tweak your brand colors to stand out more Making marketing and visibility synonymous for contractors Advice for building publicity with better pitches Details about services from Visibility Vixen Links to Resources: Michelle Lewis on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/michellelewiscoach Visibility Vixen - https://www.visibilityvixen.com/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/visibilityvixen LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/visibilityvixen/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/visibilityvixen/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5XPp5kaBfrhhlK671CRBHQ Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/visibilityvixen/ Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Stop sabotaging your sales and start establishing an affinity with your customers. Listen to learn why your customers must always know, like, and trust you! In this episode, we talk about… What affinity is and how it impacts sales 3 things that must happen on every single sales call: 1. Customers must know you 2. They must like you 3. They must trust you Remember: Sales isn't about you, it's about the customer Suggestion to record your next sales call to become aware of what you say Don't try to be perfect for your clients It's okay to not know everything Understand what head trash your client might have and how to work around it Don't make the customer wrong Create a winning opportunity Make sure these 3 things align: 1. Affinity 2. Reality 3. Communication 2 types of sales wins: 1. Customer likes you and wants to hire you 2. Customer likes you and can't afford you (but still refers you to others) Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Discord - https://discord.gg/jd3yX6crQ8 Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

It's time to stop the madness of free estimates. Listen to learn why you must let go of your fixed belief system, get paid for your time and energy, and stop giving free estimates now! In this episode, we talk about… Free estimates are not a cost of doing business, it's a cost of being stupid Understanding the difference between a basic estimate vs. consultation Why you should never offer a free design to clients Reminder: You should only be converting leads that are the ideal clients for you How giving free estimates reduces the value of the services you offer 3 Things needed to stop giving free estimates: 1. Mindset shift 2. Training 3. Practice Tips to be successful when charging for estimates:Start your prices low to build your confidence Charge enough to cover your time and expenses Be sure to know how to deliver your price with the right tone and timing Roll the cost in as a credit toward the final invoice Understand the communication required for a higher level sales process Reclaim your time by not doing free estimates and scale your business instead Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

How you communicate with potential leads can make or break your sales. Listen to learn why you must shift from trying to make a sale to genuinely trying to help people to get the leads you want! In this episode, we talk about… 1st priority when on a sales call with a potential lead: Have a real intention to help themIf you're the owner, you should make all sales calls As an owner, you must know how to do sales before you even hire a salesman Construction is not about building things—you're in the customer service business 2nd priority with a potential lead: Create an affinity with themCreate a genuine connection with them to where they enjoy talking with you Shift your mindset from making a sale to offering a genuine solution to their problem Ask the 8 questions and listen to what they say The meaning of DISC profiles:D: Dominance - places emphasis on accomplishing results. The bottom line—confidence is important. I: Influencers - places emphasis on influencing or persuading others, they're about relationships and naturally have an affinity for other people. S: Steadiness - places emphasis on cooperation, sincerity and dependability; they like things to remain steady and don't like disruption. C: Conscientiousness - places emphasis on quality and accuracy, expertise, competency, they don't want to be wrong. The benefit of using DISC profiles to know how to communicate with potential clients How personality tests can help you become a better leader Tips for making better sales calls:Don't sell, consult and remove the pressure to close. Remember your job on the call is not to be right, your job is to provide the right information—don't make the customer wrong. Stop interrogating, find out what their motive is and learn about them. Don't use insincere flattery. Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Want to stop wasting your time with people who aren't ready to hire you? Check out these 8 powerful questions that allow you to collect critical information, keep your pipeline full, and increase your sales! In this episode, we talk about… 8 Questions to increase your sales: 1. Is now a bad time to talk? Get the first no out of the way so it makes it easier for them to say yes. 2. How are you hoping that I can help you? Opens the door for many responses and doesn't guarantee you'll be able to do the project. 3. Part One: Can you give me an idea of where you're at in this process? Calibrated question so you'll know how to handle their call and keep your pipeline full. 3. Part Two: Have you talked to other contractors yet? Give them permission to talk with other contractors and give you more information. 4. How long have you been thinking about doing this project? Gives insight to both the pain and pleasure of the project, motivation, and budget. 5. What has made you decide to want to do it now, what's changed? Gives clues about the bigger picture and doesn't put them on the defensive. 6. When are you hoping to have it done? Don't rely solely on their answer; dig deeper and find out the true meaning of what they said and what they expect. 7. Have you ever worked with other contractors or have you ever done similar projects like this, or have you ever hired a contractor for the project in your house before? Allows you to discover if it's a new experience or if they've had good or bad experiences with contractors in the past and openly address concerns. 8. Who else is excited about this project? Tells you who the decision-makers are. Use names if possible and show them you've been listening. Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Get More Business Changing Content Here! https://theprofitclub.hammerandgrindpodcast.com/connect Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Building a business requires hard work and constant action. You can't get massive results without massive action so listen to learn crucial steps to establish and grow your business! In this episode, we talk about… Activities to generate money:Write a letter to friends and family letting them know about your business Send the letter by mail to the top 20 people on your list of friends and family Ask them to hire you, refer potential clients to you, and ask for warm introductions to other referral sources for your industry Always follow up on referrals received Activities to set up your business:Hire someone on Fiverr or similar sites to create a logo for your business Get a Google Voice number to avoid giving out your personal number Create a Google My Business account Start a Facebook page and Instagram Advice for building your authority:Establish your social media accounts Share relevant content that brings value to clients Comment on other posts and pages similar to your business Everyone should know what you do—Talk about your business so much that it annoys your friends and family Advice for expanding your network:Create a website for your business Join a BNI Group, Business Networking International, as soon as possible Talk to 5 people a day, in person, about your business Engage with people on free sites like Craigslist and Facebook about your work What to do when you start making money:Pay yourself the bare minimum and split the rest: 50% for marketing and 50% for business tools or software Set up your business bank account Secure any insurance and licenses you need for your business Become a Lowe's or Home Depot's installation service provider Ways you can work ON the business:Brainstorming on how you can generate more work or new products and services Creating systems and documenting your processes to know what it takes to grow your business Find ways to improve your marketing Collect reviews for your business from every job you do Rinse and repeat until you start making money and systematize your business! Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Peter J. Harding sheds light on his passion for mindset and why you must invest in your self-improvement if you want a successful business. In this episode, we talk about… The value of honesty, being uncomfortable and why Pete chose roofing Reprogramming your mindset and battling your self-esteem The power of manifestation, visualization, and self-study Don't expect a better life if you're not making yourself better Why mental awareness is key to being a business owner The impact of leadership roles and being a cheerleader for your team Advice to potential roofing business owners: Get your head straight to be great Links to Resources: Peter J Harding on Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@peterjharding LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/peteharding/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/peter.harding1 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pete_harding/ Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Self-evaluation is so underrated. It is a crucial aspect of business and personal development that most people tend to overlook — to grow and thrive, it is imperative to evaluate your business. Listen in to learn why self-evaluation is such a critical component of success in business and life. In this episode, we talk about… The analogy of flying an airplane and how it is similar to running a business The importance of journaling and how that helps you with your self-evaluation Using KPIs (key performance indicators) to evaluate your business Journaling as an effective tool to remove stress The need to have a realistic goal that is a little bit beyond what you are comfortable with Things to consider when you're evaluating your goals BHAGs (Big Hairy Audacious Goals) and the importance of setting them Things to keep in mind when preparing an after-action report How to be most productive while doing after-action reports Role of a great leader and better ways to provide feedback/evaluate your employee Tips to help you with your job costing meetings Links to Resources: Flash Foresight by Daniel Burrus https://www.hammerandgrind.com/tools-of-the-trade Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

You can't scale a business simply by adding more services or by relying on referrals. Listen in to understand whether or not you're really ready to scale and how to grow your business successfully! In this episode, we talk about… You have to perfect what you have before you can scale What happens to your time when you add services The benefit of narrowing your niche when you first start your business Advice for documenting your process to systematize it so it's easy to replicate Simplify to multiply-simplify your product offerings The importance of having an organizational chart for your business Always know the numbers for your business Have a Mastery Ladder to help employees know how they can advance You must know where your leads come from and track your marketing and sales Charging more money allows you to make more money doing less work Understand why you want to scale your business Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Having employees that want to work for you is critical to the success of your business. Listen to learn how to make sure you have the right mindset when it comes to hiring and attracting winners to your team! In this episode, we talk about… Check your self-talk and quit saying nobody wants to work 2 Steps to Reframe Your Mind: Step 1: Start thinking in terms of positivity to attract what you want Step 2: Change your offer and focus on what an employee wants Check your social proof and what message your business projects to the public Advice for creating attractive job postings:1: Get the offer in front of the right people and show them why they should want to join your team 2: Make an offer they like and include specific details about company culture 3: Build trust by including quotes from other employees about why they enjoy working on your team Understanding many employees will be poached from other companies so always take care of your own Thinking outside the box when it comes to attracting and retaining loyal employees Leveraging videos and social media can build trust and share your company's culture If people are willing to quit working with you, be willing to look inward and ask why Create an organizational chart that shows opportunities and use mastery ladders Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

If you want your business to stay profitable and healthy, you must stay ahead of the curve and prepare for whatever comes next. Check out how to know if your business is ready for an economic downturn and how you can start preparing today so you're not hurting in the future! In this episode, we talk about… Different ways to prepare for an economic downturn in the construction industry:Have ideally 6 months, at minimum 3 months, of expenses covered in the bank Have money set aside to cover 1-2 months of payroll Have appointments booked out for several months Know your numbers and how many leads are needed to sustain production Know your where all your marketing comes from Recognizing many contractors are on thin ice, barely breaking even each month The importance of realistic expectations and what it takes to have a healthy business Understanding consequences and that there's no downside to saving money Why you should start stacking cash and start looking for labor-only revenue streams for your business Links to Resources: Flash Foresight by Daniel Burrus https://www.hammerandgrind.com/tools-of-the-trade Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

If you're unable to pay yourself first, you don't have a financially healthy or sustainable business. Alicia Osthus dives into the basics of the Profit First method and explains why it's time to get your finances in order so you can have a profitable business! In this episode, we talk about… Alicia's accounting background and what led her to the Profit First method Common financial mistake contractors make and why it pays off to hire a professional Suggestions for using Profit First Nation to understand accounting basics Benefits of Profit First method vs. traditional accounting 1. Separate accounts for personal vs. customer deposits 2. Ability to have bonus pay and profit distribution 3. Guidelines for allocating money and consistent paychecks The mindset shift required to pay yourself first and understanding your real revenue Deduction possibilities and the difference between a 1099 contractor vs. employee We sell like we buy—don't be a cheapskate in your own business How Profit First gives you both clarity around your finances and permission to spend Links to Resources: Alicia Osthus - https://aliciaosthus.com/ Profit First By Mike Michalozicz - https://mikemichalowicz.com/profit-first/ Profit First For Contractors By Shawn Van Dyke -https://www.profitfirstcontractor.com/ Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Just like you can't catch bass without the right bait, you can't attract your target audience without the right marketing. Listen in to learn how to scale your marketing, leverage data, and start reeling in your ideal clients! In this episode, we talk about… Why your marketing must focus on specific clients, not just what you can get The importance of knowing where your audience hangs out Changing your marketing and the position of your business to catch your ideal client Advice to review your top 10 clients to narrow down patterns of your target market Suggestions to test and record which marketing strategies attract your ideal client You can't scale referrals but you can scale your marketing effort Understanding the value of ads and the quality of leads Business is all about making decisions based on data, not emotions Tips for finding your customers and improving your ad copy to reach them Remember: Test, Record, Adjust Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Women working in the trades is growing more common. Elyse Parks shares her experience of finding her place in the trades, how and why contractors should add more women to their crew, and advice for women interested in a career in the trades industry. In this episode, we talk about… Elyse's transition from the corporate world to the trades industry How Elyse and her fiance handle disagreements and division of labor on the job How writing newsletters led to an award from the Professional Women in Building Council What it's like working as a woman in trades and the biggest hurdle females face getting into the industry Advice for women to contact their local homeowners association about working in the trades Recommendations for contractors trying to hire female trade workers Suggestions for women curious about working in the trades to try exposure programs like Habitat for Humanity Links to Resources: Bold City Builders - www.boldcitybuilders.com Elyse on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thatswhatshesawed Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Referrals are great but having a marketing strategy is key for contractors. Matt Thibeau breaks down his 7 Step Marketing Method to help contractors build their reputation and business! In this episode, we talk about… Matt's experience as a one man show marketing department The biggest mistakes contractors make when it comes to marketing Reactive marketing vs. marketing with intention Seven Step Marketing Method for Contractors:  1. Define the niche you're good at and that you'll make the most money from doing. 2. Build a systematic approach to getting reviews so you can build your reputation. 3. Create a simple landing page dedicated for advertising purposes. 4. Generate traffic to your landing page/website using Google ads 5. Build up the reviews in your business listing and optimize your Google listing for the keywords that you want to target. 6. Set up an email confirmation and follow up system to respond to quote requests. 7. Use social media to build certainty and demonstrate proof of knowledge and proof of happy customers. Details about the Contractor Marketing Book  Links to Resources: Contractor Marketing Book - www.contractormarketingbook.com Matt Thibeau - https://www.facebook.com/matt.thibeau Savant Marketing Agency - https://savantmarketingagency.com/ Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

Check out these helpful suggestions to find the labor you want, understand how to pre-qualify customers, and why it's time to up your marketing game! In this episode, we talk about… 1. Where can I find GENERAL labor? People in the food industry, specifically cooks Big box/construction retail store employees typically have great customer service skills High school trade or vocation students interested in construction Always look for opportunities to find employees 2. Where can I find SKILLED labor? Ethically poach contractors from other construction businesses Use ads that convince them you offer a better opportunity, make your business attractive to them Be willing to pay them well 3. How can I pre-qualify customers over the phone? Make sure you can do the scope of work Make sure you can meet the time frame Make sure you're on the same page with pricing Ask calibrated questions and use Profit Club tools for sales process Figure out the pain and pleasure of why the customer wants this project Have they worked with other contractors? 4. How can I create systems in my business? Understand there is no one size fits all, plug-it-in, ready to go system Address your micro frustrations and fix what bugs you the most Try 2 second improvements and repeat them to create an efficient system Figure out how to do what you need to do better, faster, cheaper 5. Where do you find good customers and where do you find leads? If you're attracting bad customers, it's because your marketing sucks Create a customer avatar based on who you want to work for Market to your target demographic and start adding value Use marketing and branding to be visible and get in front of customers People have to know about you—market yourself! Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!

A common mistake contractors make is competing on price. Listen in for simple ways to shift your mindset and increase your value without competing on price! In this episode, we talk about… Raising the value of your business by raising the expectation of the customer Why you shouldn't position your services as a commodity Using intangibles like customer service, employee vetting for increased value Why your image, professionalism, and branding must match across the board Advice for improving your value by investing in your business Why you must dedicate time, effort, and intention to build your value Suggestion for using outside and customer feedback, auditing your website and sales process, and changing “We's and I's to YOU” Why you must start making changes now if you want your business to survive and thrive Links to Resources: Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast!