Just thought i might pass this along. I still pretty often get requests from friends to be a second set of eyes on a plan or bid, maybe provide fresh ideas to solve a problem. Couple of weeks ago I was doing just that. The conversation turned to true costs of business and then to the lack of work. I explained that work doesn;t find you, you have to cultivate it. As an illustration we took a ride and I showed him Hundreds of Townhomes and Singles for sale. all within 10 minutes of my place, 30 from his. They are selling, just WELL off of the pace of two years ago. Most if not all had 2X4’s screwed across rear doors and sliders. I explained that with the tax credit and tax time coming up? It might be time to do some mailings, door hangers and some door to door sales. Maybe offer a simple deck package at a reasonable price. I heard reason after reason why it was not a good idea. SO I dropped it. Well, Someone else did it. Found work already. Booked a few decks, even a few better jobs with a better profit margin. and the guy I was showing around? Sitting at home. So Remember, Explore EVERY Idea you have, or someone else will. In this case someone else did, and it payed off. It could have been my friend, but it wasn’t. Oh well.
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
This time-tested installation method for flangeless windows ensures smooth operation and provides air, water, and vapor control.
Featured Video
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
Robert, I just recently finished reading an editorial emphasizing our need now to think like a hunter. I am hungry and I need to eat today, what am I going to do today to get some food on the table.
Past few years got us all soft.
Eric
I had an idea this AM when the alarm went off and I explored it....to no avail.
When I heard the buzzer, I asked my wife if that was the work alarm or the whoppee alarm. She told me to go to work. I'm not giving up yet.
Nice try!
Work your network!!! Call past customers and ASK for referrals! If you don't ask, the work goes to someone else. I don't turn down work! Last week we were setting steel beams for a repair on a old house- A referral from a building inspector who I ASKED if he had any referrals. It's not my favorite work but it payed real money.....
Great analogy Eric... Steaks don't just land in your pan, we have to go get them.
L