Construction Genius

Amazon is a household name that continues to lead and dominate the international business scene. The trillion-dollar business that it is today, however, did not happen overnight. Their success story involves failures, risks, inventions, innovation, and an intense company culture not for the faint of heart. Intimidating as it is, though, there is a treasure trove of ideas that we can learn from them to scale our business, even in the construction industry.  In this week's Construction Genius podcast episode, I welcome Steve Anderson, best-selling author of the Bezos Letters. He shares how Jeff Bezos built Amazon into what it is today and how he laid out his plans through his annual letters to shareholders. We discuss things that are considered crucial to Amazon's growth and how companies can use those strategies to grow their businesses.  This episode is something you shouldn't miss. Listen to it today!  Discussion Points: 0:00 Introduction 1:44 What can commercial contractors learn from a 'book nerd'?3:03 Pra

Are you struggling to attract the right clients to your company? Marketing plays a huge role in addressing this dilemma as you can't just hope for the best that they will someday notice you and the services you offer. When you're doing marketing right, your message will be more intentional and laser-focused, resulting in a significant shift, client and profit-wise.  In this week's Construction Genius podcast episode, I share tried and true ways to attract your ideal clients to your construction companies. I discuss the marketing funnel and the four parts of the funnel's top part that you need to focus on. I also give away three reasons why construction companies fail to maximize profits and what you can do to address those problems.  Tune in to this episode!  Discussion Points: 0:00 Introduction  1:29 Many construction companies struggle with marketing  2:57 Four parts of the top of the funnel  3:54 Hope is not a strategy  4:27 What is the purpose of a business? 4:52 Reasons construction companies fail to max

Growth is every business owner's aim. But many find growing their businesses to be overwhelming; with so many things to take care of, it becomes difficult to pick an area of focus. However, growing your business does not have to be complicated; generations of companies have focused on three things, and they experienced the growth they so longed to achieve.  In this week's Construction Genius podcast episode, I welcome my guest, Bill Flynn, the Catalyst Growth Advisors' chief catalyst. Bill shares the three things a company needs to focus on to achieve growth. He discusses each of these areas of focus in detail and gives action steps that business owners can take to propel their companies forward.  If you are excited about growth but overwhelmed at the same time, this episode is for you.  Discussion Points: 0:00 Introduction 1:13 Three things to focus on for company growth 4:01 Teams and why companies should start with them 6:19 A business owner's worldview and its impact on business7:17 Critical skills for te

In the construction industry, project hand-offs from one project manager to another are common occurrences from time to time. But despite how common it is, the transition is not always easy. New project managers face many challenges, including understanding the work involved and building relationships with fellow workers and the general contractor or owner. In today's Construction Genius podcast episode, I talk about how my client and I created a process that would ensure a smooth project hand-off from one project manager to another. The process is simple and doable.  Tune in to this episode!  Discussion Points: 0:00 Introduction 1:39 Eric shares a story about one of his clients|2:34 The three-step process that 'John' developed for a smooth project hand-off 3:24 1st step: Preparing a PM to PM hand-off meeting 4:25 2nd step: Introduce the new PM to the field team 4:57 3rd step: Introduce the new PM to the general contractor 7:07 Project hand-offs don't have to result in frustration7:21 Eric's offer to CEO's an

Leaders are caught up with juggling different tasks at a time but still end up feeling like they haven't accomplished anything. We all want to boost our productivity and increase effectiveness, leaders especially, and the best way forward is to let go of multitasking in order to focus more, therefore resulting in achieving more.  In today's Construction Genius podcast episode, we are joined by Dave Crenshaw, the author of the time management best seller The Myth of Multitasking. He explains why multitasking does not result in productivity. He also shares practical ways to start reclaiming the value of your time and the difference between switch tasking and back tasking.He also gives advice regarding getting a third-party to hold you accountable.  This is an interesting and educational episode that you will learn a lot from. Tune in to this episode today!  What's Discussed in This Episode: 0:00 Introduction 1:46 Debunking the myth of multitasking  2:27 The difference between switch tasking and back tasking 4:0

If you're thinking about selling your construction company and gaining the best outcomes, it's imperative that you take the necessary steps today towards making sure it's saleable. The process is far more complex than just putting up an announcement that it's for sale, especially since potential buyers will have to look into a number of things before they even consider buying your company.  In this week's Construction Genius podcast episode, I am joined by Brent Beshore, founder and CEO of Permanent Equity. We talk about transfer issues that most companies face and key things buyers are looking for in a company. We also discuss what nepotism is and how to avoid it. This is a very informative and helpful discussion especially for those who are planning on selling their companies.  Tune in today and gain amazing insights from this topic.  What's Discussed in This Episode: 0:00 Introduction 1:40 The 1 thing that makes your business attractive for a potential buyer2:22 Biggest transfer issues in companies 3:51 De

In today's episode, I am joined by Dave Kievet, the president and COO of The Boldt Company. He has been in the industry for more than thirty years. He and I discuss why being too tactical in business is not advisable, how relationships affect your construction company, and how your professional and personal life interact. This episode will be very insightful for many leaders at all stages of their careers. So, tune in now and learn important notes to hone your leadership skills. What's Discussed in This Episode: Dave's definition of leadership Instilling hope and courage to others Using a check-in sheet Defining quality time Lack of leadership in the construction industry linked to being too tactical  Embrace failures and learn from it Power of relationships Importance of feedback or mentoring Observing other leaders in the industry Shifting from being too tactical to being more strategic Practice of self-reflection How to spend more time with your feet up on the desk Allow others to be successful

Half of today's workforce are Millennials, and they are in critical leadership roles in most construction companies.  In this week's podcast episode, I had a great discussion with Justin White, the CEO of K&D Landscaping and a repeat guest, about the generalizations that the younger generation is facing up against, and how he managed to break that stereotypical mold. We also talked about how communication is key to be able to connect with people from different generations, and the future of the construction industry. Whether you are a young, aspiring leader or a veteran in the construction field, tune in to this episode, gain some incredible insights on the future generation of leaders, and be a successful leader in a multigenerational team. What's Discussed In This Episode: 0:00 Introduction 2:35 Justin's long-term goals, his success, and breaking the stereotype 6:10 Justin and his young leadership team 7:05 Humility being the underlining value in the construction business 8:43 Being a young leader and t

Almost everyone has already heard about "branding," but hardly anyone ever knows what it truly means. How is it different from logo-making or putting up a business website? And why should it matter to a construction company? When we think of branding, the first thing that comes to mind is a company logo. However, the truth couldn't be further from the misconceptions that surround it. A brand is something more than just a visual representation of your company. And that's what we're here to discuss with Skot Waldron, a world-renowned Brand and Communication Strategist. In today's episode of Construction Genius, we put a lens on the true meaning of branding. We also talk about the two types of branding, its four key aspects, and why building your brand should start from within. Learn how you can develop a better brand for your company by tuning in to this episode now! What's Discussed in This Episode: 02:24 What is branding? 03:42 How to develop a strong internal brand 05:04 A strong external brand roots from a

Financial issues can be a deep challenge for many contractors. While the situation is often unavoidable, there are ways to overcome these financial struggles and grow your business. In today's episode, I welcome Jesse Weissburg, the co-founder and chief commercial officer of Billd, a company specialized in providing accessible funds to different contractors. Jesse discusses the importance of leverage financing. He also delves into why most banks don't take risks with contractors, and the kind of help that Billd provides for contractors looking for financing options to sustain and grow their business.  So, tune in now to learn important notes about leverage financing. What's Discussed in This Episode: What is leverage financing and who needs it [01:48] Negative views on financing in the construction industry [03:32] Distinguishing the right type of financing [06:27] Leverage financing over cash [05:52] Why traditional financing is difficult for contractors [07:10] Factoring [08:41] Line of credit [10:0

The world of business consists of peaks and valleys. Sometimes, you rise. Other times, you fall. So when your business suffers a tremendous loss, should you choose to stay at the bottom of the pit? Or should you bounce back up, taking the lessons that you've learned with you as you go? In every failure and mistakes made, there is always a lesson to learn and an opportunity to do better. This week at Construction Genius, Bill Schultz, President of W.M. Schultz Construction, joins us once again to share with us how the things that he learned from his father's business helped shape his company to what it is today. He also discusses how the shutdown of his father's business impacted his family and why being able to service your customers well is key to a business' success. If you find yourself facing challenges and need some help overcoming them, tune in to this episode and be inspired with Bill's amazing story. What's Discussed in This Episode: Events that led to the creation of Bill's company in 2000 [01:58]

You know you have to do it, but crafting and executing a succession plan is not easy. There is a proper way of structuring it that will allow you to enjoy the rewards that a successful succession plan brings both emotionally and financially.  In today's episode, Dan Darchuck and I will be discussing everything about succession plans and why it is essential to your construction company. Importantly, Dan will explain why emotions play a crucial role in succession planning, why knowing the worth of your company matters, and when entrepreneurs should start making succession plans for the company.  Learn the proper way of creating a succession plan for your construction company! What's Discussed in This Episode: Why construction companies' succession plans fail [01:32] Choosing the wrong direction or path [02:33] Other uncontrollable intrusions [04:03] Which element is tied to making bad decisions [08:00] Five elements tied to succession plans [04:35] Figuring out what the business is worth for the entrepre

Marketing is how you get your ideal client to know you, like you, and trust you enough to do business with you.  In today's episode, I welcome Allan Dib, an established marketer and entrepreneur with over twenty years of experience in the field. His marketing expertise has helped many companies build better marketing plans. He and I discuss the importance of knowing what your clients need, how understanding the "client journey" is vital to shaping your marketing message, why branding and design isn't necessary to successful marketing, and much much more.  Listen to this episode and learn essential tips to strengthen your marketing strategy and attract your ideal clients.  What's Discussed in This Episode:  What is marketing [02:00] Defining the ideal client [02:26]  The principle of unequal dollar [04:30] General messages vs specific messages [06:36] Addressing what the client is looking for [07:15]  Turning information into a message which attracts the right customers [06:14] Role of testing and eff

When your business grows, challenging situations of all sorts arise. How can you effortlessly lead your business through growth pains and achieve long-term success?   In today's episode, I am joined by Claire Chandler, a professional consultant with years of experience in the field. We discuss why growing pains happen in the business, how to adapt well to the growth, and why culture is the foundation of any successful business. She will provide a framework that helps businesses find the right path towards success. So, join us today to learn more about effortlessly leading your business through growth pains. What's Discussed in This Episode: Why do companies struggle during growth period [02:06] When do entrepreneurs begin to see growth in the company [03:16] Employees are informed by the culture [05:13] Cultural gap can be detrimental for the business [06:21] Culture is the bedrock of your business [04:34] New talents provide feedback [08:30] Hiring the first and right person for the job [10:47] Mainta

We all want clients to do business with us over the course of many years and this surely is not an easy feat as we know that clients come and go. If we want loyal clients, it is essential that we strive to build good relationships on a deeper level. Who you are as a person will contribute a lot to achieving long-term client relationships because if they like you, if they trust you, they are sure to do business with you - be it thirty years or more!  This week's Construction Genius podcast episode delves into what building relationships with clients mean and what it entails. Our guest, Cody Lowry, shares how he maintains good relationships with clients even to the point where he's already considered family. Cody and I also discuss what having a personal brand is and how it affects businesses, how construction executives can build their personal brand, and a lot more.  Tune in to this episode today!  What's Discussed in This Episode: Building business on relationships [1:44] Dealing with clients and addressing

Would you like to overcome distraction and discouragement, and stay focused on executing your leadership responsibilities? Define a compelling vision and mission. Commit to a strong ethical code. Understand and leverage your unique skill set. Clarify your top initiatives, and be accountable for their execution. Cultivate relationships inside and outside your company, and continue to work on your own personal development.  If that sounds like a lot, it is! Fortunately there are resources available to help, like The Construction Leaders Dashboard.  The Dashboard is a simple tool construction executives use to clarify eight areas vital to their success. In this episode of Construction Genius, I'll explain each area of the Dashboard, and using a real-world example show you how you can take this tool and use it to enhance your leadership.  Interested to know more about the Construction Leaders Dashboard? Tune in to this episode now! What's Discussed in This Episode: Hallmarks of a great leader [02:33] Know thei

There are several ways to describe an effective leader. A leader can be strong, passionate, and humble. While all of these traits are essential to leadership success, there is something in leader humility that makes it unique.  In today's episode, our guest, Marilyn Gist and I discuss what leader humility is and what it is not. Marilyn also explains how humility bridges the power disparity between leaders and employees by making their employees feel seen and heard. She cites real-world examples of how humility has been an effective aid in solving crisis situations in global companies such as Ford and Costco.  Learn more about humility and how you can display it in your leadership by listening to this podcast episode today! What's Discussed in This Episode: Marilyn's encounter with Jim Sinegal [02:08] How Jim demonstrates leader humility [04:09] Relationship between humility and power distance [05:23] Leaders' awareness of their effect to others [08:15] Advice for CEOs mentoring new leaders [10:17] Perceptio

There is a rapid shift happening in the workplace today. Millennials are firmly established in leadership positions. While this proves to be useful for companies, some Boomers and GenXers find it difficult to adjust and see the good that the Millennial generation offers. Finding the balance between the strengths of each generation and how to put it to good use is crucial to get the workplace in order and more productive.  Today's podcast episode features ICF professional coach and author of "Unleash the Millennials and Save the World", Philip Zimmerman. Philip has extensive experience in handling and growing businesses before he ventured into teaching. We will talk about how this transition he went through in life helped him see and highlight the disparity between generations, how to effectively incorporate the younger generation to the company's executive team, and what these different generations can learn from one another.  Listen to this podcast episode and gain a lot of helpful insights about this issue.

Do soft skills have a place in hardened industries like construction? Dennis Doran—CEO, speaker, and author of Soft as Steel—explains the value of soft skills and relationship building within the construction industry. In today's podcast episode, we will tackle how soft skills create leaders. We will also learn how soft skills are similar to a building's foundation and how it supports the structure that builds on it.  Learn more about the importance of soft skills in the construction industry by tuning in to this episode today!  What's Discussed in This Episode: Soft skills make a good leader great [01:24] Influences of emotionally intelligent leaders [04:19] Why are soft skills undervalued in the construction industry? [07:24] Trustworthiness as the top soft skill [08:43] The importance of building relationships [11:26] Downsides of not valuing soft skills in the construction industry [10:42] What the older generation can learn from the younger generation [14:57] Determine the unfavorable traits and wor

Social unrest, widespread protests and riots, and a global pandemic. These are just a few of the crises that we are dealing with at present. When everything seems to be in a state of total unrest, what are the steps to take to maintain the equilibrium within your business? Today's podcast explores the stance of Coinbase, an online platform that buys, sells, and trades crypto currency. I will point out how Coinbase has maintained a mission-focused outlook despite the current situation of the society.  Specifically, we will go over a blog post from Brian Armstrong, the co-founder and CEO of Coinbase and use it to answer the question: How should companies engage in broader societal issues while keeping their teams united and focused on the issue?   If you or those around you are struggling to maintain a sturdy footing during these times, this podcast is perfect for you.  What's Discussed in This Episode: Starting from the roots: Determining the purpose of a business [03:26] Benefits for the customers [06:24] W