Time-Saving Tactics and Building Strong Relationships

Time-Saving Tactics and Building Strong Relationships
This week’s top tips for cutting time-wasters and building rock-solid vendor relationships.

Hope you are having a good week, we are changing things up around here and are going to be sending this on Wednesday, every week. The format will be similar to what you see below, so please reply and give me feedback on how you like/dislike it, your feedback will help me give you the content you are looking for.

This week, we have:

• Quick Tips: - 3 Time-Wasters on Every Job

• Article of the Week: - Build Strong Vendor Relationships

• Video: Initial Tour of Contractor OS - Our Free Notion PM Template

• Feedback Request

Avoid These 3 Time-Wasters on Every Job Site

I feel like every time I decided to get out on the jobs, which was rare towards the end with the team I had I didn’t need to, but I show up and everyone is hustling and working, it’s like they could here my diesel truck rollin into the hood LOL.

Truth is—there’s only so much you can do just by showing up.

Here are three quick ways to keep things on track:

• Daily Check-Ins
  Skip the endless back-and-forth by doing a 5-10 minute stand-up meeting every morning.

• Batch Your Questions
  Instead of fielding one-off questions all day long, have a daily check-in or one designated time.

• Establish ‘No-Go Zones’ for Distractions
  Set clear spaces for breaks or phone use that aren’t near the main work areas.

Build Strong Vender Relationships:

In this industry, it’s all about who you know. Over the years, I learned that loyalty to a good vendor can be the best business decision you ever make. Back in NC, I worked with a lumber vendor who eventually became more like a partner than just a supplier.

They even had my back through thick and thin – one time, the manager showed up at my home while I was on a feeding tube. Loyalty went both ways in that relationship. We negotiated to buy all my lumber, doors, windows, and trusses through them (all projects), and over time, that partnership turned into something no bank could offer.

They gave me sizable spec limit with practically no paperwork – just an estimate sheet, plans, a one-page application, and a plot plan. No financial statements, no invasive bank processes.

Eventually, they were the only financing I used for my builds, handling everything with a level of trust you just don’t find in banking.

Learn This:

A strong relationship with a vendor isn’t just about getting materials; it’s about creating a partnership that grows your business. Vendors who know you’re loyal are far more likely to go the extra mile when you’re in a pinch.

You’d be surprised how quickly they’ll deliver when you’re short on materials or need a special order fast.

Do This:

• Be Loyal – When a vendor treats you right, don’t put every job up for a new bid.

• Check Pricing but Don’t Play Games – Spot-check their prices now and then to stay competitive, but avoid pitting vendors against each other every time.

• Communicate Needs and Show Appreciation – Vendors who feel respected and valued are more willing to work with you when you need them.

Watch This:

The video this week is my initial walk through of our just released Contractor OS Lite:

I will be posting more of these over the coming weeks for the Project Management Template, if you downloaded it let me know what you think, please!

End Note

If you don’t mind taking a second and let me know how you like the new layout and the information we are putting out, I am trying to make this a newsletter that is informative but not too long to read.

So, hit reply and tell me in a few words if you love it, hate it, don’t care, or whatever, thanks!

Keith