Business
Eric Anderton
Thomas Edison said, "Genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration." This show interviews hard-working construction company owners and executives who share their wisdom, perspectives, and lessons learned from decades of experience bidding, planning, and building profitable projects. Topics include leadership, strategic planning, conflict resolution, niche identification, succession planning, talent management, business development, and business growth. Industry expert, Eric Anderton also shares his insights about how construction company owners can increase project profit by improving communication, running productive meetings, and attracting, developing, and retaining talented leaders. Tune in each week and get practical inspiration for how to build people, projects, and profits. "I know of no genius but the genius of hard work." John Ruskin
Total 104 episodes
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03/12/2024

Brand, Culture, and Growth: A Marketing Blueprint for Construction Leaders

Growth marketing is about navigating the noise, understanding what truly matters to your audience, and pushing the envelope to deliver meaningful, targeted experiences. For organizations hoping to succeed in today's fast-paced digital world, growth marketing is more crucial than ever. At its core, growth marketing is not only about recruiting new customers; it's about developing long-term relationships, harnessing data, and continuously improving your strategy. Nichole Gunn is the Global Chief Marketing & Sales Officer at Extu, bringing over 20 years of marketing expertise in B2B sectors. With a passion for data-driven strategies and innovative leadership, she excels in demand generation, brand development, and customer experience. Across 3,500+ industry partners, Extu’s award-winning content marketing has consistently increased sales by 30%. She joined us today to talk about the importance of growth marketing.  Nichole starts the conversation by defining marketing and its five components: brand awareness, account-based marketing (ABM), demand generation, internal marketing, and sales enablement. Nichole then talks about strengthening relationships with current clients because successful marketing isn't just about acquiring new customers. According to her, by tracking and understanding their behaviors and needs, you can offer more personalized solutions that increase loyalty and are more cost-effective than seeking new clients. We then pay attention to the importance of celebrating both successes and learning moments within the team. Celebrate victories as a means of inspiring and bringing the group together. At the same time, encourage a culture of openness and growth by accepting failures as teaching moments that can help you avoid making the same mistakes again. Further down in the conversation, we discuss the following areas regarding growth marketing: a good brand vs. a great brand, marketing and sales, key data metrics, targeted marketing strategies, education in marketing, digital presence in marketing, and more. We end today’s conversation with Nichole sharing the top three things every construction CEO should focus on in their marketing if they want to make progress. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01.56] What is marketing? [03.09] A good brand versus a great brand. [05.39] Strengthening relationships with current clients. [06.24] The distinction between marketing and sales. [07.16] Leveraging data and customer insights to optimize marketing strategies. [08.24] Celebrating wins and learning from mistakes. [12.35] Key data metrics you can't afford to ignore. [14.24] How to cut through the noise and engage high-value prospects. [20.11] The power of education in marketing. [22.43] Building a strong digital presence. [25.44] The top three things every construction CEO should focus on when marketing.    KEY TAEWAYS Focus on understanding the needs and preferences of existing clients.  Instead of relying on gut feelings alone, use data to understand the customer journey. Celebrate both successes and learning moments within your team.  Focus on building a strong organizational culture where employees are motivated to contribute to the greater good of the company and its community Focus your marketing efforts on Account-Based Marketing (ABM) to target high-value prospects. Prioritize education in your marketing strategy, using content like blogs and webinars to provide value to your audience. THE SHIFT Imagine making the shift from building projects to truly leading people. You’ve taken projects from start to finish—now it’s time to build a team of people who can do the same. In construction, authentic leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and guiding people. The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader is a no-BS, hands-on course I designed specifically for construction professionals ready to make that transition. The Shift is all about mastering the skills that matter: Direct, clear communication. Handling tough conversations with confidence. Guiding your team toward quick, practical solutions. Setting the standard for high performance. And let’s be honest—you’re busy. That’s why I’ll also give you the tools to manage your time and energy efficiently so you can lead without getting overwhelmed. This course combines a self-paced masterclass with highly practical materials to help you shift from managing projects to leading people. Click the link to learn more about The Shift, including a detailed description, free bonuses, and testimonials from construction leaders like you who have already made the shift: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/   RESOURCES Connect with Nichole Website - extu.com/about/leadership/                    extu.com/  LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/nichole-gunn/                    linkedin.com/company/extu/    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me    
29m
26/11/2024

Got the Guts? 7 Essential Traits to Start and Build a Business

What holds you back from starting your own business? The fear of failure? Pride? Or is it the shame? Whatever it is, it’s human nature. There will be a time in your life when desperation is the motive that drives you to start your own business. When that time comes, the seven essential truths of building a business that we discuss in today’s episode will be there to guide you.  In this episode, Eric explains why you must have a motivating factor before starting your own business. According to him, a powerful and deeply rooted reason for pursuing your business will help you endure the tough times and stay committed to your vision. Eric also comments on mastering the ability of influence. He explains that by being authentic, you'll attract customers, employees, and collaborators who believe in you and your vision because people tend to shy away from anything that feels fake or inauthentic. He also discusses the importance of balancing humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn, which not only helps you grow but also enables you to build a team that complements your skills, which is crucial for long-term success.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.24] The motivating factor.  [04.00] Mastering the ability of influence.  [05.13]  The balance of humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn. [07.45] The role of competency and confidence.  [09.10] The support system.  [09.50] The role of luck in business.    KEY TAKEAWAYS Have a strong "why" when starting a business.  Master authenticity and influence in business. Business success requires a balance of humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn.  Build your confidence through competence. A solid support system is essential for overcoming the challenges of building a business.   Imagine making the shift from building projects to truly leading people. You’ve taken projects from start to finish—now it’s time to build a team of people who can do the same. In construction, authentic leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and guiding people. The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader is a no-BS, hands-on course I designed specifically for construction professionals ready to make that transition. The Shift is all about mastering the skills that matter: Direct, clear communication. Handling tough conversations with confidence. Guiding your team toward quick, practical solutions. Setting the standard for high performance. And let’s be honest—you’re busy. That’s why I’ll also give you the tools to manage your time and energy efficiently so you can lead without getting overwhelmed. This course combines a self-paced masterclass with highly practical materials to help you shift from managing projects to leading people. Click the link to learn more about The Shift, including a detailed description, free bonuses, and testimonials from construction leaders like you who have already made the shift: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/       Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
13m
19/11/2024

The Secret Weapon for Project Executives: How to Turn Routine PM Check-Ins into Strategic Powerhouses

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me In today’s dynamic work environment, meetings should be more than routine check-ins. They need to be strategic, focused, and outcome-driven. Well-structured meetings provide the groundwork to align every decision and discussion with the broader goals of the organization. These meetings are not about micromanaging work but ensuring that each project, conversation, and decision brings the company closer to its long-term goals, whether profitability, customer satisfaction, or brand reputation. In this week’s solo episode, Eric explains the importance of strategic meetings between project executives and project managers. Starting the discussion, Eric talks about how to make meetings strategic, productive, and valuable saying that meetings should lead to clear decisions that improve the company's larger goals. This focus will make meetings more productive and ensure they contribute meaningfully to the bigger picture. Eric also suggests when, where, and how much time you should spend for a meeting. Effective meeting preparation is an important part of the process. Eric explains that effective meeting preparation requires more than just status updates. It demands a deeper analysis of how daily activities connect to larger organizational goals. He also walks us through what you should avoid discussing in meetings. He says effective strategic meetings focus on high-level alignment, not on micromanaging every task. While day-to-day details should be handled elsewhere, these meetings should center on discussing issues that impact the bigger picture, like client relationships or organizational strategy. Wrapping up the discussion, Eric clarifies what’s beyond the meetings. A great meeting doesn’t end when you walk out of the room. Project executives should follow up after one-on-ones by summarizing key takeaways, tying every priority back to the company's broader goals, and checking progress against those objectives.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.20] Aligning meetings with broader organizational goals.  [03.00] When, where, and what time?  [03.31] What requires effective meeting preparation? [05.22] Managing risks, resources, and performance for long-term success. [06.30] What to discuss (and skip) in high-level project meetings.  [07.28] What’s beyond the meeting?   KEY TAKEAWAYS Before any meeting, clarify the strategic objectives you want to achieve. Focus on strategic alignment when preparing for meetings. Ask the right strategic questions during one-on-ones with project managers. Stay focused on strategic issues and avoid getting caught in the weeds of task-level updates. Follow up effectively after strategic meetings.    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me  
9m
12/11/2024

Listen, Plan, Build: A Blueprint for Smoothly Navigating Construction Disputes

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   In today's fast-paced and frequently unpredictable workplace, effective leadership and teamwork necessitate a combination of adaptation, empathy, and collaboration. One of the most crucial lessons for leaders is to strike a balance between action and deliberate planning. This entails taking a step back, listening, gathering information before making a choice, and being willing to change course along the road. A commitment to working together, especially when frustrations are high, is crucial to successful problem-solving. Doug Reitz brings over thirty years of experience in California’s construction industry, earning a respected reputation as both a seasoned builder and an influential thought leader. Beyond the billion-dollar projects his company has completed, Doug has made a lasting impact on the industry by sharing his expertise at events and workshops statewide. His focus on creating high-performing teams, cultivating resilient company cultures, and advancing industry best practices has inspired countless professionals. We start the conversation with Doug explaining how to manage yourself in a business transition and the importance of having a support system, whether it's a close-knit team or a personal board of advisors. Doug then clarified the necessity of stepping back from controlling everything and adopting a more empowered leadership style that not only helps develop a more engaged and capable team but also enables leaders to focus on broader strategic goals rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day tasks. Further, he explains the value of the Listen, Plan, Build process as a tool for balanced decision-making and how this process encourages collaboration, bringing the team together and helping to align everyone’s efforts toward a common goal. Further into the conversation, we discuss the following topics regarding successful problem-solving: the value of understanding the experiences of other people, taking slower and smaller steps, handling failures with an open mind, the power of consistency, the role of collaboration, emotional awareness, and sharing purpose in problem-solving.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [05.15] Managing yourself in a business transition. [07.08] The need for adaptability and embracing unpredictability.  [11.55] Letting go of the urge to control every detail and allowing others to take ownership. [16.39] Listen, plan, build tool. [22.28] The importance of understanding other people’s experiences.  [23.55] The downside of modern technology. [28.48] Taking small and slower steps in construction. [31.14] The role failure plays in success. [32.30] Coping with failure. [35.00] The power of consistency and relationship-building. [38.05] The importance of collaboration, emotional awareness, and shared purpose in problem-solving. [42.00] Doug’s book: A Blueprint for Constructing Success in Leadership and Life   KEY TAKEAWAYS Build a support system when facing challenges. Adapt and embrace unpredictability as a leader. Step back and empower your team as a leader. Use the listen, plan, build approach. Understand the power of collaboration and communication.  Develop empathy and curiosity as a leader.   RESOURCES Connect with Doug LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/doug-reitz/  Website - dougreitz.blog/  Instagram - instagram.com/be_a_builder_/    BUILD: A Blueprint for Constructing Success in Leadership and Life Paperback by Doug Reitz amazon.com/BUILD-Blueprint-Constructing-Success-Leadership/dp/B0DHHJJ5RD    When Work Works: Cutting-Edge Solutions for the Contemporary Workplace amazon.com/When-Work-Works-Cutting-Edge-Contemporary/dp/B0D7L356JC    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me  
46m
05/11/2024

The 90-Day Plan: How to Ensure New Hire Success (or Quickly Identify a Bad Fit)

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   The onboarding process is a critical phase that sets the tone for a new hire's experience and long-term organizational success. However, many businesses make the mistake of viewing onboarding as a one-time event rather than a continuous process. Common mistakes include assuming the job is complete once the new person is hired, failing to give systematic training and assistance, and failing to define clear performance objectives and goals. By overlooking these essential elements, organizations risk disengaging new hires, missing opportunities for integration, and eventually facing costly hiring mistakes.  In this week’s solo episode, Eric discusses the mistakes employers make in hiring. He starts the conversation with the first mistake: the hiring process as a one-time job. He explains how an active support system can help prevent disappointment and foster a positive start for both the new hire and the organization. Then he talks about having a structured onboarding process that can help the new employee acclimate to the organization and understand their role and responsibilities. Eric also explains how you can identify any issues early on and provide necessary support by asking about employees’ positive and negative experiences, clarity on their roles, and their ability to contribute. He also explains  “The 90-day High-Performance Dashboard,” which is a structured framework designed to guide new hires during their initial three months in an organization.    EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01.02] The mistake of thinking that the hiring process is over once they are on board. [02.30] The structured onboarding process. [05.00] Ensuring the new people are adjusting to the team and culture. [05.46] The 90-day High-Performance Dashboard. [08.00] The assessment of new hires.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Recognize that hiring a new employee is just the beginning of the process, not the end. Implement a structured onboarding process for new hires. Prioritize ongoing check-ins with new hires during their first month.  Assess a new hire's fit within the first 90 days. Encourage open communication during the onboarding process.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me  
9m
29/10/2024

The Art of Managing Large-Scale Projects in Multicultural Teams

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me There are distinct opportunities and problems when working with a multicultural workforce, particularly on large projects. When teams come together from different backgrounds with different perspectives, talents, and experiences, harnessing this diversity can boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. However, successful collaboration necessitates a deliberate commitment to communication and trust-building. Setting common goals and encouraging open conversation is critical for managing the complications that result from different cultural norms and expectations. Our guest today is Bisrat Degefa, CEO & Co-Founder of TruBuild, an AI-powered construction software designed to simplify construction projects. He is a construction expert with vast worldwide expertise. His career began in the UK on rail projects before transferring to Qatar for the Doha Metro Gold Line project. He later managed digital engineering in Kenya and worked on major projects in India, North America, and South America. His team at TrustBuild is pioneering breakthrough AI solutions to reinvent project planning and execution, moving the industry forward. He joined us today to talk about the art of managing large-scale projects in multicultural teams. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02:18] Bisrat’s journey through the construction industry. [05:15] The willingness to adapt new technologies: the difference between the Middle East and the USA. [08:22] Bisrat’s professional journey through Kenya, India, North America, Canada, and the Middle East. [12:29] A journey influenced by specific goals and opportunities. [16:28] Navigation through a shared mindset between different races, ethnicities, and cultures. [17:10] Consistent issues on large-scale projects. [20:26] Federation from a design and project management perspective. [25:04] Why the UK is best at handling conflict. [27:08] Building trust in different cultures. [30:40] Handling the failures of entrepreneurship. [37:00] Addressing pain points of owners.   KEY TAKEAWAYS It’s important to foster a shared mindset in diverse teams. Prioritize effective communication within large teams to minimize rework. Ensure the communication of the potential impacts on quality and processes clearly to stakeholders.  Focus on establishing clear communication and aligning on common goals. If a mistake is identified, act quickly to rectify it and communicate transparently with stakeholders about the issue.  RESOURCES Connect with Bisrat LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bisrat-s-degefa/  Website - trubuild.io/
42m
22/10/2024

Entrepreneurial Highs and Lows: Building Businesses in Construction and Beyond

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me In a fast-paced world, a healthy work-life balance is essential for sustaining mental health and productivity. As people handle the responsibilities of their professional lives, they frequently face problems that can contribute to stress and burnout. It is crucial to surround oneself with supportive networks, embrace adaptability, and practice effective communication. Individuals who prioritize mental health and meaningful connections can live a more rewarding and balanced life, increasing their productivity in both personal and professional realms. Bryce Wuori is an MPM, Asphalt Scientist, and the CEO at Pavewise, a web-based software to maximize productivity and improve project quality. He specializes in asphalt paving and believes that technology will be the key to future success in the infrastructure industry. Bryce has been acknowledged nationwide as an asphalt expert who is currently achieving significant success by incorporating project variables into asphalt pave quality methods to boost project income. He joined us today to talk about the entrepreneurial highs and lows in the construction industry.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS   [02:27] Bryce's Construction Roots [06:58] The two factors people need to be a good business person.  [10:08] Mental Health in Construction [14:10] How communicating and sharing emotions help to reduce stress.  [19:22] Bryce’s first construction company. [24:20] Understanding Pavewise and the technology behind it. [26:34] Recognizing business opportunities [30:30] The process of selling a business. [33:02] Shifting into a venture-backed software company. [35:40] Adjusting to a new role in software.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Surround Yourself with Learners Master Communication Accept What You Can't Control Talk About Your Feelings Choose the Right Partners Embrace Guidance and Collaboration   RESOURCES Connect with Bryce LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bryce-w-89818b237/  Website - pavewisepro.com/   
42m
15/10/2024

Why Walking Out of Meetings Makes Your Company More Productive

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me In this week’s episode of the “Construction Genius” podcast, we discuss productivity tips relevant to the construction industry based on Elon Musk’s 2018 email to Tesla employees.  Eric starts the discussion with what Elon Musk considers the blight of larger organizations: excessive meetings. He explains why it’s important only to hold large meetings if they provide value to all present. He then shows why it is acceptable to leave a meeting if you are not contributing. Prioritizing your time effectively is important in the workplace. Next, he talks about two major factors regarding communication in the workplace: avoiding acronyms and jargon and direct communication. Avoiding acronyms is important because not everybody has the knowledge of them that differs to specific fields, and it’s important to build a culture where team members can communicate directly across levels, bypassing unnecessary chains of command. The next important tip is to prioritize common sense in decision-making. Be willing to adapt or change outdated company rules when they no longer serve a purpose and encourage a culture where employees feel empowered to challenge and improve practices for better outcomes.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01:57] Excessive Meetings - The blight of big organizations.  [02:58] Leaving a meeting if not adding value.  [03:29] Reduce using acronyms.  [04:20] Direct communication.  [06:04] Interdepartmental communication. [07:02] Common sense as the guide. [07:34] Build a culture open to change and make a better place for employees.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Only hold large meetings if they provide value to everyone involved. If you’re not adding value to a meeting, it’s acceptable to leave. Avoid acronyms and jargon to ensure everyone understands. Promote a culture where team members can communicate directly across levels. Ensure that communication flows freely between departments. Be open to changing company rules that no longer make sense.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Kickass Business Meetings Ebook: www.constructiongenius.com/kam  
10m
08/10/2024

Bulletproof Your Bottom Line: How to Fund Uninsured Risks Without Hurting Cash Flow

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me An 831(b) plan, commonly known as captive or microcaptive insurance, is intended to help business owners reduce unfunded liabilities. SRA utilizes the 831(b) Tax Code to create tax-deferred risk mitigation and give business owners greater peace of mind. Van Carlson is the founder and CEO of SRA 831(b), with 25 years of experience in the risk management industry. His goal is to continue SRA's upward growth while also developing novel products for the market. He joined us today to discuss how to fund uninsured risks without hurting cash flow. We start the conversation with Van explaining the 831(b) risk management strategy along with the benefits businesses can gain from it. Then we talk about the significance of motivation in financial advice. Risk management should be the primary focus rather than merely seeking tax advantages to avoid potential scrutiny from the IRS. Van then kindly explains the common mistakes people make when setting up an 831(b), especially in the construction industry: proper ownership structure and motivation. We then pay attention to the challenges of exiting an 831(b) plan, where Van explains how they make a simple exiting process. Further down to the conversation, we discuss the following topics regarding 831(B) risk management strategy: solvency testing, the services 831(b) provides and are unavailable through traditional insurance options, alternatives for 831(b), and the type of businesses that might not be suitable for an 831(b).   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02:13] What is 831(b) risk management strategy?  [04:43] What 831(b) provides for construction companies [08:52] The importance of the motivations behind financial advice  [10:35] The common mistakes [14:33] Solvency testing [18:41] Challenges of exiting an 831(b) plan  [20:31] What unique services do 831(b) offer that aren’t available through conventional insurance options? [26:23] The types of companies aren’t suitable for the 831(b) [27:17] Alternative risk management strategies [28.48] The red flags  KEY TAKEAWAYS Evaluate Motivations  Clarify Ownership Structures  Prioritize Risk Management  Participate in Solvency Testing  Choose the Right Insurance Agent   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Van LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/vancarlson/ Website - 831b.com/   
34m
01/10/2024

The Blueprint for ESOP Success: Planning, Patience, and Clear Communication

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) are a topic many construction companies consider when planning their business transitions. ESOPs are a proven strategy that allows owners to leverage the wealth they’ve built through hard work and dedication. Kelly Finnell, J.D., CLU, AIF, is one of the nation’s premier Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) consultants. For over four decades, he has been assisting business owners in creating and implementing ESOPs. He has spent decades discussing ESOPs with corporations and groups, giving presentations at over 300 conferences and meetings in the United States and internationally in London and Sydney. His company, Executive Financial Services, is a national ESOP consulting firm founded in 1981 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Their diverse team of experienced professionals is focused on utilizing Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for Ownership Succession Planning and possesses deep expertise in this specialized area. He joined us today to talk about the process of building a successful ESOP. We start the conversation with Kelly explaining the biggest challenge in ESOPs: understanding what an ESOP is. Kelly further shares that business owners, especially in the construction industry, need to be patient and prepared for a steep learning curve. An ESOP serves both as a qualified retirement plan and as a liquidity strategy for current owners. Kelly then explains who would best fit ESOPS, saying that it is typically best suited for business owners seeking a gradual exit over five to eight years. For owners wanting to walk away and not look back, a third-party sale would be more appropriate. We then pay attention to the cultural transition that comes with an ESOP. Kelly shares that companies that prioritize maintaining their culture after a sale are ideal candidates for an employee stock ownership plan. Unlike third-party sales, which often lead to cultural shifts that can alienate both employees and customers, an ESOP facilitates an internal transition that helps preserve the existing culture. Further into the conversation, we cover the following topics regarding building a successful foundation for ESOP: ESOP failures and how to avoid them, the initial steps of getting familiar with ESOP, how to address the challenges that come with active and inactive children in a family-owned business, how to navigate personal guarantees.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.01] Understanding what an ESOP is.  [06.21] Risks to be aware of when building a foundation for ESOP. [08.39] The standard time frame for exiting a company.  [10.50] The importance of effective communication when implementing an ESOP. [15.15] How to keep employees engaged in the ESOP process during the early years? [18.03] Cultural transition and ESOP.  [25.08] Avoiding ESOP failure.  [27.26] The first steps of getting familiar with ESOP. [31.11] Retirement planning.  [33.48] Addressing challenges regarding active and inactive children in a family-owned business.  [38.17] Navigating personal guarantees.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Consider your desired level of involvement post-sale when choosing an exit strategy. Effective communication and education are crucial when implementing an ESOP. Celebrate and Educate Prioritize Company Culture Start with Education and Expert Guidance   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Kelly LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/esopcoach/  Website - execfin.com/ Book: The ESOP Coach - Using ESOPs in Ownership Succession Planning National Center for Employee Ownership  
43m
24/09/2024

Maximizing Success in Pre-Construction: How to Improve Collaboration, Affordability, and Certainty of Outcome

Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me It’s a common misconception that pre-construction consists solely of estimating costs based on drawings and coordinating subcontractor bids. Pre-construction might begin with feasibility studies and initial concepts, which help determine what is financially viable. It comprises a wide range of tasks until building begins, with designs finalized and budgets secured. The pre-construction phase involves a large amount of work. Today, we are joined by Steve Dell’Orto, the founder & CEO of ConCntric, a cloud-based construction software platform for pre-construction and construction cost estimating. With 26 years of experience in the construction industry, Steve is well-equipped to drive digital transformation in this field. He is dedicated to using his expertise to enhance innovation and technology in real estate and construction. Together with his team, Steve aims to make the built world more affordable, predictable, and sustainable, positioning them to significantly impact the future of the industry. He joined us today to discuss ways to maximize pre-construction success while also improving collaboration, affordability, and outcome certainty. Steve starts the conversation by explaining what pre-construction is and how people mistakenly view pre-construction as merely estimating costs. Steve then kindly shares the importance of the alignment of all stakeholders around common objectives, saying that successful project delivery relies on effective communication and collaboration, ensuring that everyone understands the value being provided and works towards the shared goal of a high-quality outcome. We also talk about the role of technology in renovating the construction industry. By integrating workflows and automating procedures, you may improve communication, save time, and allow skilled workers to focus on their strengths. Collaboration and transparency in gathering ideas from many stakeholders can result in substantial advancements and innovation throughout the industry. As we continue our conversation, we focus on the following aspects of the pre-construction process: the primary problem, the non-linear nature of pre-construction, risk mitigation prior to construction, the black-box approach, and the role of AI in the construction industry.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [01.56] Steve’s career journey at Clark Construction Group. [05.12] What is pre-construction? [08.07] Impact of the lack of financial commitment.  [12.31] The impact of a good pre-construction process.  [16.08] The importance of aligning all stakeholders around common objectives. [20.52] Careful selection of partners and clear communication.  [23.40] The importance of leveraging technology to modernize the construction industry. [27.00] Augmenting existing expertise.  [31.04] The main pain problem in the pre-construction process.  [36.15] How the non-linear nature of pre-construction influences data quality and decision-making. [39.30] Mitigating risks before construction.  [42.07] The black-box approach.  [44.00] The difference between information and data. [45.13] The role of AI in construction.  [48.32] The biggest shift in construction regarding technological application.    TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Always put yourself in the client's shoes Focus on the Total Cost of Ownership Prioritize Transparency and Structure Embrace Technology for Efficiency Gradual Integration of Technology   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Steve LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/stevedellorto/  Website - concntric.com/
55m
17/09/2024

Building a Life You Don't Need to Escape

Health is not something that can be achieved with mere thought. It takes patience, consistency, and the ability to figure out what’s good for you and be brave enough to adjust. Some may think achieving health is following some difficult daily routines, but in truth, it’s the continuation of the simplest things that will make you healthy eventually. Kevin Dahlstrom is a husband, father, CMO, and climber. Raised in a small Texas town, Kevin navigated a challenging childhood before rising through the corporate ranks to become a Chief Marketing Officer at multiple public companies and a successful entrepreneur with several exits. Despite achieving financial success, Kevin found their work-life balance lacking and transitioned to a focus on health in their mid-40s. He now advocates for an 80% clean diet and emphasizes that health improvements come from consistent, small changes over time rather than quick fixes. His approach is informed by a lifetime of learning and personal experience, aiming to guide others toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. Starting the conversation, Kevin shares his childhood and career journey along with the health habits he adapted to lead a fulfilling life. Out of all the exercises you can do to maintain health, walking is one of the best and most underrated of them all. Kevin kindly explains some of the impact walking has on creativity and changing brain chemicals. Kevin and Eric also discuss the importance of disconnecting when walking and allowing your mind to be free and focused. We then pay attention to the impacts of heavy weightlifting, which may lead to chronic injuries over time, especially for younger individuals who often focus on lifting large weights. Kevin then explains how you can use lighter loads with proper form can be more sustainable and still provide effective results. We also talk about why alcohol is bad for maintaining your health. Kevin here explains that alcohol is a toxin that can significantly degrade performance and overall well-being. While occasional moderate drinking might be manageable, it generally impacts optimal performance and becomes more noticeable with age. Additionally, he explains how small habits, like regular alcohol consumption or eating ice cream frequently, can accumulate over time, leading to significant long-term effects on health. Kevin also talks about the limitations of mainstream healthcare, where they usually fail to address the root causes of chronic illnesses, making them worse over time. Further down to the conversation, we discussed the following topics related to maintaining health: food tracking, a good sleeping schedule, finding your community, and planning for retirement. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04:19] Kevin’s story and his health habits.  [09:35] Baby steps for beginners.  [11:19] The benefits of walking. [13.05] The importance of disconnecting during walking.  [19:22] The negative effects of heavy weight lifting. [20:48] Walking carrying weight. [25:58] Food, alcohol and health.  [33:15] The impact of avoiding decisions that will make life miserable.   [38:49] Why sleep is the absolute foundational pillar of maintaining health.  [43:43] Finding your tribe, retirement and health. [52:09] Does all your wealth bring you joy? [55:54] The true meaning of minimalism. [59:39] Choosing your own path.    KEY TAKEAWAYS Consistency Over Intensity  Prioritize Health and Set Boundaries  Disconnect During Walks  Focus on Clean Eating  Limit Alcohol Consumption  Reduce Light and Screen Exposure    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me RESOURCES Connect with Kevin LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/kevind/  Website - camp4.wordpress.com/   
1h 3m
10/09/2024

Timber Takeover: Why Wood is the Next Big Thing in Commercial Construction

Are you looking to build an aesthetic workplace with a calm environment, pleasing background, and radiation of good vibes? Mass timber can bring that vision to life. Today, our guest is Ricardo Brites, Director of Engineering & VDC at Mercer Mass Timber, a wood product manufacturing company in British Columbia. He is a committed structural engineer who is passionate about sustainability and innovation. He specializes in solid and mass timber structures. He brings a lot of scholarly rigor and real-world experience to every project. He holds a PhD in structural engineering from Universidade do Minho, Portugal. Join us as we dive into the world of mass timber and learn how mass timber can change the aesthetic of your workplace. We start the conversation by comparing the cost of other materials to mass timber, where Ricardo explains how it depends on the area. Then Ricardo describes the benefits of using mass timber, including being much lighter than concrete, as fast to assemble as steel frames due to its prefabricated nature, and requiring a smaller installation crew. We then pay attention to the two biggest mistakes of mass timber: the high possibility of burning and moisture and the degradation that can happen to the wood. In this phase, we talk about the reason for the low adaptation of mass timber in the USA and the role the technological revolution plays in that regard. We also talk about the aesthetic benefits of mass timber, such as a calm environment, a beautiful background, and the radiation of a good vibe. Furthermore, we dive into the limitations of mass timber and what the future will look like for Mercer Mass Timber.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [05.13] Cost of mass timber in comparison to other materials.  [07.36] Benefits of mass timber.  [10.03] Quality of mass timber in comparison to the quality of steel.  [11.06] The longevity of a wood panel.  [12.27] The biggest misconception about mass timber.  [15.13] Geographic variations and the usage of mass timber.  [16.19] The reasons for lower adaptation of mass timber in the USA than in other countries.  [21.15] Esthetic benefits of mass timber.  [22.15] Limitations of mass timber.  [24.13] Expanding mass timber.  [28.06] Mass timber in mainstream and commercial construction.  [28.47] Mercer mass timber.    TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Be aware of the misconceptions about mass timber.  Geographic variations don’t affect the mass timer usage.  There’s a psychological effect to mass timber.  Explore Hybrid Solutions. Mass Timber Increases Efficiency.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES   Connect with Ricardo LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/ricardobrites/  Website - mercermasstimber.com/   
30m
03/09/2024

Transform Your Technical Writing: Strategies for Better Readability and Response

Are you struggling with finding the desired outcome of your technical writing? You might’ve been overlooking some crucial details that make your writing doesn’t deliver the message to your audience properly. Pam Hurley is the founder of Hurley Write, which provides customized writing and reviewing workshops for world-class companies. Pam started her career in higher education, teaching students in technical subjects who were frequently irritated by their "inability" to write. Pam wanted these gifted, intelligent kids to know they could write; they just lacked the necessary resources. With over 125 years of combined experience working with professionals in a number of areas, including energy, engineering, biotech/pharma, government, and aerospace, Hurley Write's team of experts is made up of seasoned writers, teachers, and writing coaches. Hurley Write contends that critical thinking and problem-solving skills are the cornerstones of excellent document writing, which extends far beyond syntax. Pam joined us today to talk about some strategies to achieve better readability and response from your technical writing. We start the conversation with Pam defining technical writing and how writing strategies can solve the problem of writing. Pam then educates us on the importance of knowing the audience that you are writing for, along with the three types of readers: primary, secondary, and tertiary. We then talk about the role critical thinking plays in technical writing, along with how it helps to figure out the needs of your audience. We also hear Pam’s take on using generative AI for writing and why writing on your own is important as a skill. In this phase of the conversation, Pam explains how assessing feedback can help you to improve the quality of your writing. Then we pay attention to the synchronization of headings and sub-headings of a writing and how you can use it to get the attention of the reader. Furthermore, Pam talks about finding the balance between what the writer wants and what the reader wants. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.14] What is technical writing? [03.08] Technical writing strategy. [05.10] The importance of knowing your audience when writing.  [07.10] Structure of the documents. [08.55] Critical thinking. [11.13] The role of generative AI in writing.  [15.22] How to improve the quality of your writing.  [19.26] Headings and sub-headings.  [21.21] How to craft a sub-heading?  [20.20] Finding the balance between what you want and what the reader wants.  [25.53] PowerPoint presentations.  [28.11] SOP and process mapping.  [31.05] The first steps to get better at your technical writing.   TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Know your audience.  A strategy that works for everyone might not work for you.  Give the employees the time and space to write.  Have the courage to try different things especially, if what you’ve been doing has no positive impact.  Look for keywords that portray the gist of your writing to create a sub-heading.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Pam Hurley LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/hurleywrite/  Website - hurleywrite.com/   
35m
27/08/2024

The Crucial Question for Family Businesses: Family Needs or Business Priorities?

Family or business first? Have you ever wondered? There's no right or wrong answer for that. It depends on what people believe or how they've been taught to believe. While some people implement the family-first business, others believe in the business-first family. Both may seem right from different perspectives, but there's more to it than just being right or wrong. In this week's episode, we've had the pleasure of having a conversation with another industry expert, specializing in family business advocacy. Rob Ferguson is the founder and president of Ferguson Alliance, a family business strategic advisory service. Having led middle-market family-owned businesses for more than ten years, he uses his qualifications as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and NACD Board Leadership Fellowship to help CEOs and boards navigate generational changes. His goal is to modify the statistics so that family companies last longer. He believes that with the correct foundation in place, family businesses may build an infinite legacy. He joined us today to talk about the essential question for any family business: family needs or business priorities first. Starting the conversation, Rob defines the two terms' family first business' and 'business first family' along with how they help business owners build their long-term strategy. If you choose the family-first business, then you are choosing a family member, whether they are qualified or not, and if you choose the business-first family, you put the right people in the right position. We then talk about the importance of deciding how a family member joins the business and what requirements they need to fulfill. It makes them understand that they have to earn it if they want to join the business. Rob also explains the procedure for firing a family member, especially if they are a shareholder. In the next phase of the conversation, Rob kindly shares some crucial details on the essential elements of a succession plan, structuring a succession plan, and the transition of business ownership. Furthermore, Rob explains the advantage of tying family values into a business culture and how it helps to continue the legacy. We also hear Rob explain how he educates people from younger generations who become business owners.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04.43] Family first business or business first family. [08.30] How does the performance of a family member affect the non-family members in a business? [09.28] The mentality shift. [13.20] The importance of setting requirements.  [17.46] Finding the prime zone.  [22.23] Firing a family member.  [24.11] Structuring a succession plan.  [25.40] Essential elements of a succession plan.  [28.10] The transition of business ownership. [34.15] Integrating family values into the business culture.  [37.01] Handling biases as a mediator.  [44.15] Educating young people who become business owners.  [47.11] Out of the shadow.  [51.33] Generational differences.    TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Asking yourself 'Are you a family-first business or business-first family' is important as a business owner.  Set requirements that must be fulfilled to earn a position at your organization, especially for family members.  Find the prime zone in your business.  Keep the business ownership in your blood family. Build a succession plan that will choose the best replacement as the next business owner.  Listen for intense. Not how it's being said, but what is being said.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES   Connect with Rob Ferguson LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/robertaferguson/  Website - ferguson-alliance.com/  
52m
20/08/2024

Shaped by Sacrifice: How a Soldier's Death Forged a Mission-Driven Leader

A leader is many things, but most importantly, a leader should be someone willing to take accountability, even if some things are out of their control. A great leader should have the ability to prove that actions speak louder than words. In this week’s episode, we have the absolute pleasure of conversing with an exceptional author, keynote speaker, Pat Tilman Military Scholar, and founder of Loyalty Point Leadership, Patrick Nelson. He is an accomplished leader who served in the US Army as a paratrooper for nearly seven years and led soldiers on three combat missions. His military awards include the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart Medal. Patrick is an engaging facilitator who has conducted leadership development programs for a wide range of customers, including Fortune 500 companies and small enterprises from various industries. During one of his deployments, his failures as a leader resulted in one of his comrades being killed in combat. This life-changing experience led him on a quest to help others avoid making the same mistakes. Join us as we talk about how failure can lead you to be an exceptional leader. Starting the conversation, Patrick kindly shares his childhood background and the reason behind his joining the US Army. Then he explains some of the misconceptions the world has about the people and culture in Iraq and Afghanistan, along with the reasons why sovereign countries that go into these countries repeat the same mistakes. We turn our attention to the ‘Pride Factor', where people don’t like being told that they are doing something wrong and how that affects the safety culture in construction. It’s important that we develop relationships in the workplace because, in an industry like construction, where safety is a huge concern, there have to be people who care about your welfare. We talk about the value of developing a work culture where people care about the well-being of others. Furthermore, Patrick shares his knowledge on developing leadership skills along with some leadership lessons that he learned from the military that are applicable to construction.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.40] Patrick’s childhood and the journey to the US military.  [05.12] Parachute training. [09.06] The misconceptions that the world has regarding Afghanistan and Iraq. [15.31] The sense of community.  [17.22] Ego and safety in construction.  [21.02] The reasons behind safety failures that are preventable.   [23.00] The importance of developing relationships in the workplace.  [26.15] Safety Stump Speech.  [31.22] Opioids addiction recovery.  [33.01] Leadership lessons from the military.  [36.40] Is leadership an innate skill or a developed skill?   [40.00] Forward-looking accountability.  [42.28] Accountability of a leader.  TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Actions speak louder than words. Luck is not on our side all the time. You are going to run out of luck eventually.  Develop relationships with people who you are working with. You have to be able to lead yourself first if you want people to follow you.  While we can all learn, grow, and acquire most of the qualities, not everyone is destined to be a great leader.    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Patrick Nelson LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/patrick-nelson-b2964b1b/  Website - loyaltypointleadership.com/    Written by Patrick Nelson Front-Line Leadership: How to Eliminate Complacency and Build All-In Engagement amazon.com/Front-Line-Leadership-Complacency-All-Engagement/dp/1394240759  
47m
13/08/2024

Master Pursuit Marketing: Learn to Build Trust, Focus on Client Needs, and Secure Your Dream Projects

Maintaining a healthy relationship takes hard work, no matter how personal or professional. It takes time and trust. To pass through the initial steps of building a relationship, you have to be patient and faithful. In this week’s episode of the podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of conversing with another industry professional, Fawn Radmanich, a marketing professional working in professional services marketing specifically focused on engineering and construction over the last 25 years. Her passion and skills include working in teams to win multimillion- and billion-dollar design and construction projects, spotting opportunities for personal and corporate branding, and cultivating a sense of community and participation among employees. As a strategic marketing and communications specialist, she has participated in over 800 pursuit activities and diverse market sectors, including higher education, civic, theme park entertainment, aviation, data centers, seismic and historic renovations, sports, and many more. She joined us today to share her knowledge on how to secure your dream project by building relationships. Starting the conversation, Fawn explains what pursuit marketing is, along with the reason why it is connected to building relationships. Fawn then explains how to choose the right people according to the needs of your client. We also pay attention to why stellar products or great proposals aren’t enough to win projects if you don’t possess relationships.  Figuring out the hidden motives of people is a challenge. In this phase of the conversation, Fawn explains how she looks at different aspects of people’s lives by using social media because people put a lot of information about themselves out there often. We then talk about how challenging it is to ask necessary questions sometimes, along with Fawn’s suggestion on how you can put those questions out there with ease. Furthermore, we listen to Fawn’s expertise on building a bridge between what you want to do and what your client wants you to do to make the project a win-win situation for both parties.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [03.29] What is pursuit marketing? [05.05] Can you build or win it? [09.52] Positioning people according to the needs of a project to build relationships.  [14.28] The importance of investing in relationships.  [16.45] Figuring out the objectives of the client.  [19.51] Uncovering hidden motives of people.  [24.56] The difference between business development and pursuit marketing. [30.23] How to ask appropriate questions to get information.  [36.21] Finding a balance between the client's and your expectations for a project. [39.31] Selecting the next best person. [43.21] Thought leadership. [44.23] Using social media to market conditioning.   TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Understand the decision-makers of an organization.  Position the right people for the right job.  A stellar product or great proposal is not going to get you a job if you lack relationships. Use social media as a source to learn about people.  Asking about past projects is one of the best ways to get information.    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES   Connect with Fawn LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/fawnradmanich/  Website - stantec.com/en   
51m
06/08/2024

From Commander to Coach: Shifting Leadership Styles in Construction

Being a leader is not just about the role, it's about the goal. The goal is to witness the growth process of those who work under you. A great leader knows when to be a coach and when to be in command, as both are necessary in the workplace. This week’s episode features Jake Thompson. Jake is a leadership performance coach, keynote speaker, and author. Jake has spent more than a decade working with leaders and organizations worldwide on how to get better results for themselves and their teams. He has been featured in Forbes and has directly impacted over 80,000 ambitious leaders, including those with multiple AGC state chapters, BOLDT, Baker Concrete, MW Builders, and more. His motivational business workshops offer his listeners doable actions and useful tactics they can implement right away to improve performance and achieve better outcomes in their careers and personal lives. He joined us today to talk about how to shift leadership styles from commander to coach in construction. We start the conversation with Jake defining leadership and why a leader should be someone who people are willing to follow because they have the best interest in people’s success. Jake then explains how the development of technologies helped people get a better idea of a healthy workplace and why the command and control style doesn’t work very well at present. We also talk about toxic personalities in the workplace and how one troublesome person can sink your work culture to the point where you cannot get it back up easily. Asking good questions and listening carefully are key parts of good communication. Most people don’t have the initiative to ask good questions or the ability to stay focused on a conversation. In this part of the episode, Jake explains what you can do to ask good questions, along with the importance of asking follow-up questions. He also explains some tips that you can follow to stay focused in a conversation. Jake ends the conversation by sharing his idea of how a new leader could figure out if they are successful in their new role.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.10] What is leadership? [06.00] How technological development built the awareness of a healthy workplace environment.  [10.00] Command and control workplace environment. [11.32] What causes the lack of flexibility as a leader?  [16.15] Protecting your workplace culture from toxic personalities.  [23.43] The structure of an effective coaching conversation.  [25.20] What initiates good questions?  [30.01] Asking natural questions.  [32.35] Improvement requires intentionality and time.  [34.22] What makes a good listener and how to stay focused on a conversation?  [40.06] The first 90 days of a newly promoted leader.  [43.33] A leader’s ability to watch people grow.  [47.11] Who is Jake?    TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY A leader should be someone who genuinely has a great interest in the success of those who work under them.  A leader should have the ability to switch between command & control and coaching.  Leadership is a skill that needs to be taught. Allowing troublesome people no matter how much of a high performer they are, will eventually sink your culture. Uncomfortable questions typically lead to a stronger relationship through conversation.  Improvement requires intentionality.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES   Connect with Jake LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/jakethompsonspeaks/  Instagram - instagram.com/jakethompsonspeaks/  Website - competeeveryday.com/                  jakeathompson.com/    The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever By Michael Bungay Stanier amazon.com/Coaching-Habit-Less-Change-Forever/dp/0978440749   
49m
30/07/2024

Netflix Culture - The Best Work of Our Lives

One of the most unique things about being human is that we keep learning new things every day. Everywhere we look, there’s knowledge about something we haven’t heard but might be important to our existence. As we continue this path to knowledge, we might meet the most unique cultures that stand as a beacon of light that guides us and offers us the most interesting pieces of information. It’s a choice of how to add this information for our benefit. In this week’s episode of the “Construction Genius” podcast, we bring you a special solo episode where we break down the Netflix culture document, “Netflix Culture: The Best Work of Our Lives.” Join us as we dive into the four core principles of Netflix culture, embracing the professional sports team mentality, hiring people who have the quality to share knowledge, finding the right person for the right position, figuring out the aspirations of an organization, and more. We start the document with the four core principles of Netflix culture: the dream team, people over process, uncomfortably exciting, and great and always better. We break down these core principles and how we can use them to our advantage in the construction industry. When we look inside the first core principle, ‘the Dream Team’, there are values that bind a dream team together: selflessness, judgment, candor, creativity, courage, inclusion, curiosity, and resilience. Netflix’s second principle is ‘People Over Process.’ As there’s nothing wrong with an organization choosing its process over people, it’s important that you, as leaders, allow employees to make a difference because the difference is all we need sometimes. The document shows how Netflix tries to inspire and empower people to make their own decisions about their work, which might have a great impact on a successful work experience. The third principle is ‘Uncomfortably Exciting.’ Although this principle is unique to Netflix, it can be of great value to organizations that are new and open to adaptation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Another core value mentioned in the document is ‘Artistic Expression’ and it shows how Netflix is trying to be open about what it is to work with them because they are not afraid to repel the wrong people and attract the right people. The last principle is ‘Great and Always Better.’ According to the document, Netflix has a never-ending thirst for greatness, working every day to do something better than yesterday. This can be of great value to your organization because if you don’t think your organization is in the place where you dreamt it to be, you can check what’s holding it back from success, make necessary adjustments, and then move forward.  EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04.10] The four core principles of Netflix culture.  [05.02] The importance of allowing employees to make decisions on their own.  [07.44] Excellence and determination.  [10.45] Professional sports team mentality.  [15.38] The importance of hiring people who are willing to share knowledge.  [20.00] How candor can help you improve both individually and as a company.  [22.25] Keeping the right person in the right position.  [28.08] Coach-player mentality.  [31.34] Simple, efficient, and impactful processes.  [36.06] Repel the wrong people, attract the right people.  [40.00] The importance of figuring out the aspiration that drives your organization.  TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Make sure you hire people who are not only good at what they do but also good at working together. Make sure you give employees the right information and the freedom to make decisions themselves. Build self-awareness to understand what should be better, and make sure you have the discipline and resilience to get there.  Try to build a place where your employees can do the best work of their lives.  It’s important you embrace the professional sports team mentality in your workplace. Create a culture by hiring people who are willing to share learnings throughout the organization. You must insist on keeping the right person in the right position in your organization.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Netflix Culture — The Best Work of Our Lives jobs.netflix.com/culture   
41m
23/07/2024

Building the Future with 3D Printing

The world constantly changes with new technologies. They proceed with providing better versions of the existing technologies. 3D printing is one of those technologies that continues to grow and change the world with each footstep. In this episode of the Construction Genius Podcast, we’ve got to have the most intriguing conversation about 3D printing in the construction industry with Anna Cheniuntai. Join us as we dive into the world of 3D printing, where we discuss the current status of 3D printing technology for commercial contractors, the difference between 3D and traditional printers in terms of cost-saving, the challenges of MEP, how 3D printing affects the human labor force, and more. Anna Cheniuntai is the CEO and co-founder of Apis Cor, an American construction technology company headquartered in Melbourne that creates exclusive robotic technologies and materials to boost the construction industry. Anna stepped toward entrepreneurship after earning her bachelor's degree in space physics in 2014. Anna went on to work in construction and industrial machinery manufacturing with Nick Cheniuntai, where they successfully managed a massive $6 million project to build and deploy the ground navigation system supporting the infrastructure of the Olympic Games in 2014, which proved to be a watershed moment in recognizing the construction industry's desperate need for automation. We start the conversation with the current progress of Anna's company and their unique project, the largest building they have ever printed, which is located in Dubai and holds the Guinness World Record. Then we pay attention to the difference in cost between 3D and traditional printers, where Anna explains how cost savings depend on design and location. In the second phase, Anna explains their unique experience installing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing because of their walls and how they bring productivity up with it. Furthermore, we talk about the misconception that 3D printing is going to eliminate labor and listen to Anna’s explanation of why it is good that we have the option of 3D printing in the construction industry. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [02.05] The current state of 3D printing technology for commercial contractors.  [05.55] The viable applications of 3D printing. [07.57] The future of 3D printing in commercial space.  [12.17] The cost-saving difference between 3D printers and traditional building methods. [15.03] The printing quality and the cost. [18.42] The challenges regarding mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. [20.56] Hesitation to use 3D printing as a new technology. [23.44] Does 3D printing eliminate the labor force? [26.15] Obstacles to the extensive adaptation of 3D printing. [28.19] Maintaining the quality in different regions.   TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Make sure your printing quality is good. The perception that 3D printing eliminates the labor force is completely wrong. Before you produce something you do the quality controls, and make sure that this demand meets the requirements for this particular formula. 3D printing can save a lot of money on transportation, labor, and framework. Building a market of more single-family houses is an urgent matter to be addressed.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES   Connect with Anna LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/anna-cheniuntai-96669177  Website - apis-cor.com
31m
16/07/2024

Modest but Mighty: The Realistic Path to Electric Vehicle Adoption in Construction

This week on the Construction Genius Podcast, we are having a quick sneak peek into the world of electrical machinery where we discuss the cost difference between electric vehicles and diesel machinery, the replacement and application process, environmental concerns about lithium mining and its current progress, the involvement of heavy machinery in the carbon footprint of the United States, and many more with our guest Raymond Wang. Raymond Wang is the  founder and Chief Executive Officer of HEVI Corp. With over 20 years of expertise, Mr. Wang specializes in strategy, corporate governance, and management. He has held prominent executive positions in the manufacturing, banking, and finance industries. He has worked for Zhongchai Holding, Merrill Lynch, and Bank of America. He is passionate about promoting environmental sustainability and actively engages in non-profit and community service projects in his hometown. Starting the conversation, Raymond shares his motive behind focusing on electric vehicles, saying their purpose is to introduce cleaner tools to specific jobs in the industry. Then we hear how they remedy the dissuasion of people from buying electric vehicles due to the upfront cost difference between electric vehicles and traditional machinery. Raymond then explains why they keep their machinery simple and how it helps to keep the cost down and adoption high. Adopting new technologies might be difficult for some people at first, but with the right guidance, they can fit in with them and continue working. Here, Raymond explains how their labor unions are adopting electric vehicles and how they have faith in transitioning to cleaner technologies. We then pay attention to lithium mining and environmental concerns as it continues to progress in mining accuracy.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [03.36] Raymond’s motive behind focusing completely on electric vehicles.  [06.44] The upfront cost difference between electric construction vehicles and traditional diesel machinery. [11.16] The performance difference between diesel vehicles and electric vehicles in extreme weather conditions.  [21.11] Lithium mining and environmental concerns. [23.48] What will the future look like with regard to the balance between electric and diesel-powered vehicles?  [27.12] The role heavy equipment plays in the carbon footprint of the USA.  [31.30] The 10-year goal of Raymond’s company.    TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Make sure people are comfortable and willing to try new power sources.  Keep the machinery simple.  Simple machinery will keep the cost down and adoption high. Try not to sell machines that are not catered to fit their use.  The role of electrical machinery is to fit into the right place in the business and do a cleaner job.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Raymond Wang LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/raymond-wang-gtec/  Website - gethevi.com/  Twitter - x.com/realraywang  
34m
09/07/2024

Synchronicity: The Power of Integrating Form and Function in Construction with Hans Lorei

This week on the Construction Genius Podcast, we are joined by Hans Lorei, a designer based in the Nashville Metropolitan Area. In this conversation, we bring you a glimpse of the designer world where we discuss commercial and residential spaces, the key elements of a great space, the unique kinship between music and design, and many more topics related to being a good designer. Hans Lorei entered the construction world as a real estate agent in 2015. After transforming to design and development, he noticed a similar trend with short-term rentals: better-looking properties with more facilities had higher occupancy and rented at higher rates. He started a consulting business a few years ago, helping people with short-term rentals. He likes to do long-term projects and looks forward to working with people who like to do exciting things and take chances. Starting the conversation, Hans shares his designer journey and explains what makes a good design, along with the two elements that make a great space: enclosed space and open space. We then talk about the most unique similarities between music and design, where you can find an interesting story behind the process of producing a song and building a place. Spending a lot of money on something doesn’t mean it’s going to be good. Most of the time, it’s not the money, but the taste. In the next phase, Hans kindly explains the value of a good designer, who should have the ability to balance rations, details, plans, and texture. Furthermore, Hans shares both the pros and cons of reinventing yourself according to the changes in time. It is a superpower and a choice, but not a necessity.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [03.19] Hans’s designer journey [08.04] Commercial and residential space.  [10.00] Enclosed spaces and open spaces.  [18.00] The democratization of music with social media. [19.27] The relationship between music and design. [26.06] The value of a good designer. [27.50] How to develop your design taste over time. [31.37] The relationship between human evolvement and design. [35.17] The pros and cons of reinventing yourself. [44.31] The services that Hans provides and why he likes long-term projects.   TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Be persistent, have faith, and don’t force things to happen. Take time to be intentional about small details in a building.  The value of a designer comes with the ability to balance rations, details, plans, and texture. The evolution of style is a choice, not a necessity.  A great space should include both elements of enclosed and open spaces.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES   Connect with Hans LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/hans-lorei-b9659139/  Website - hanslorei.com/  Instagram - instagram.com/hansloreidesign/  Twitter - x.com/hanslorei   
48m
02/07/2024

Carrots Over Sticks: How to Incentivize Labor to Hit Budget and Schedule

In this episode of Construction Genius Podcast, We take a close look into the mind behind yet another thriving industry expert, Michael Fortinberry, co-founder and COO at Protiv. Throughout the conversation, we discuss the connection between motivation and brain, communication and teamwork, the pillars of successful company culture, incentives and their impact on project schedules, the benefits of performance pay, and more. Michael Fortinberry is a New York businessman and entrepreneur who possesses years of experience in the construction industry and is an expert at incorporating modern technology into his commercial endeavors. Michael has always been fascinated with new technology, which led him to build Protiv in 2021. Protiv is a new payment platform inspired by the human potential that took three years of development and testing to reach this point. Before Protiv, Michael founded Sciovia, a technology-focused business consulting service for real estate and construction. In the first part of the conversation, Michael shares his knowledge and experience about the connection between motivation and the brain, explaining that when it works the right way, it can change behaviors and boost the quality of work over time. Then he explains the four pillars of a successful work culture: authenticity, people-centric culture, bi-directional communication, and caring about growth. In the next phase, we make sure you get a rough understanding of how incentives and overtime work are tied to the project schedule and the impact they have on staying on schedule. Furthermore, we talk about how performance pay can be an opportunity to make the field teams aware of the challenges of running a successful business.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04.11] To find a solution to a problem, you have to understand the problem first.  [07.00] The connection between motivation and brain. [11.14] The importance of clear communication and teamwork. [15.30] The four pillars of a good company culture. [18.00] Strategies to attract the best talent. [24.06] Building a culture where everyone cares about being successful on a project.  [29.07] Incentives, overtime, and how they affect a project schedule.  [33.29] Incentives and their impact.  [39.14] The importance of performance pay and the opportunities it creates.    TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Try to understand the problem before trying to find a solution. Construction rework is costly, try your best to get it right the first time. Try to build a culture where your team cares about getting the work done. Be authentic to who you are as a company. Make your cultures centered around your people.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Michael LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/michaelfortinberry/  Website - michaelfortinberry.org/                  michaelfortinberry.co/                 protiv.com/  Twitter - x.com/MFortinberryNYC  
45m
25/06/2024

Constructing Success: Ryce Elliott's Blueprint for Leadership and Life Beyond the Build

In this episode of Construction Genius Podcast, we explore another inspiring career journey of someone who spent most of their life in the construction industry and possesses a wide range of expertise and knowledge of it. We discuss how you should make clear communication happen between generations, how you should give people opportunities to make mistakes and grow as a leader, and the importance of balancing health and work with this week’s guest Ryce Elliott. Ryce Elliott is the president of Benning Construction Company in Atlanta, Georgia. He started his career journey as a laborer at Benning in 1994.  His responsibilities include corporate planning, risk analysis, contract review, and pre-construction management. Throughout his career journey of 29 years at Benning, his experience and knowledge are of great value to clients, business associates, and Benning Construction as a whole. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Purdue University and was a US Army veteran.  Throughout the conversation, we collected knowledge on the importance of understanding how different generations process information in different ways. Here Elliott walks us through an experience he had on how Gen X and Gen Z process information. We also pay attention to the challenges executives face regarding health and fitness due to heavy workloads.  It’s vital as a leader that you give opportunities to people to do their jobs on their own. If you do things on their behalf, there’s no room for growth. Elliott explains why it’s important to make people understand that failure is unavoidable and an essential part of the growth process. At the end of today’s discussion, we listen to Benning’s approach to reducing workforce challenges in the construction industry. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04.54] The impact of military background in the initial stages of Elliott’s career.  [07.09] How different generations process information differently.  [12.50] Balancing fitness and work.  [16.36] The importance of giving people opportunities to do their job on their own.  [20.29] The fear of failure and building confidence.  [25.36] Elliott shares the story of becoming and handling the position of president at Benning. [27.36] Rebranding and going forward.  [30.33] Ongoing programs for workforce challenges in the construction industry.  [34.53] How do you want to be remembered on the last day of your career?  TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY Pay attention to communication differences between generations. You can accomplish anything with a schedule, plan, and discipline.  Always make time for your physical and mental health. Make sure you give opportunities for people to do their job.  Make sure your people understand that failure is a part of the process.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Ryce LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/ryce-elliott-b1a19012/ Website - benningcc.com/  Mentioned in the Episode Chops Lobster Bar, Atlanta: chopslobsterbar.com  
37m
18/06/2024

Balancing Act: Navigating Construction Risks and Exploring AI's Role and Limits

This week on the Construction Genius Podcast, we explore the risk aspects of projects in the construction world, where the contractors have to be extra vigilant on the first 100 pages of a tender specification document, and how AI can help you make the process easier with our guest, Melvin Newman. Melvin Newman is the President/CTO of PataBid Tenders & Quantify Platform. He is a skilled chief estimator with a background in both general and mechanical contracts. He is exceptionally skilled at managing information for tenders. To promote more accurate estimates and an ecologically sustainable methodology that eliminates paper usage, he developed numerous key developments in estimating, one of which was a fully digital approach. During the conversation, we delve into the top three risks that every contractor must consider: schedule, liquidated damages, and delivery. We also discuss the importance of the contractor pre-qualification process, the reasons why AI won't replace humans, the distinctions between humans and AI in terms of intuition, the limitations of applying AI in construction, and the impact of AI on our thought processes. Malvin also shares his insights on why you need to develop a certain level of trust in the person with whom you are entering into a contract, but it is a necessity to verify that trust. He also talks about his company, PataBid, and the services their AI can provide for general contractors.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [03.09] The top three risks every contractor has to face. [06.30] What you are missing in your pre-qualification process as a general contractor.  [10.22] The second law of thermodynamics and AI. [17.18] Intuition and AI. [20.22] Why AI has significant limitations in the construction industry [23.27] How AI affects our thought process.  [28.30] The immediate use of 3D printing in construction. [33.41] What every contractor must do when they are going into a new contract. [40.31] Melvin’s company and how their AI can help contractors save time and make better decisions.   TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY It doesn't matter what size you need to pre-qualify your trades. Trust but verify. If you have a trade that isn’t a perfect match for a project, you have to mitigate it before it becomes a risk. AI isn’t here to replace humans. Ai is here to save you time by working faster. But speed is not equal to intelligence.  As a general contractor you must make everyone who is bidding on you aware of what’s in the first 100 pages of a contract.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Melvin LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/melvin-newman-208240a3/  Website - patabid.com/   
45m
11/06/2024

Hiring in Construction: 6 Myths Debunked & Modern Strategies with Paul Sanneman

In this episode of the Construction Genius Podcast, we try to look beyond the surface of the hiring process, where people get into trouble for certain beliefs that hold no validity in modern times. We make sure you get a thorough knowledge of the process of hiring with the newest technologies with Paul Sanneman. Paul Sanneman is the founder of Dream Business Coaching, Contractor Staffing Source, and Residential Contractor Services Group. Paul has been in the construction industry for over 40 years, during which time he has started multiple business coaching firms and provided consulting services to over 400 others. Paul believes that residential contractors are the most interesting and ethical business owners, which is why he is committed to working with them. He is committed to helping them form successful teams so they can generate more revenue faster and enjoy themselves more. Paul has dedicated his life to coaching, which he believes is one of the most important relationships for a business owner. Throughout the episode, Paul shares his insights on the six myths of hiring, why it is important not to delve into those myths, why it could be a mistake only to hire within your industry, and how people get into trouble by hiring fast and firing slow. Further, into the conversation, Paul explains the steps of a recruiting process, what kind of impression it gives to your company when you acknowledge the applicants for a position in your organization, and how assessment can help you understand if a potential employee shares the same values with the company.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04.14] The myths of hiring. [08.55] The importance of keeping your compensation leveled up.  [11.35] Why recruiting within the construction industry could be a mistake. [16.14] Hire fast, fire slow. [20.32] Recruiting is not a project, it’s a process.  [25.07] The steps of a hiring process.  [29.13] The importance of replying fast for the hiring applications. [35.08] How assessments can confirm if a potential employee has matched values with your organization. [39.34] Reference check and background check.   KEY TAKEAWAYS You should be hiring all the time. Not only when you need somebody. The skill of building teams will make you a great company. You should keep your compensation to your employees at market value. Hiring only from the construction industry can be a mistake.  One employee who does not match your corporate values can destroy the culture within your organization.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES Connect with Paul LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/paul-sanneman/  Website - contractorstaffingsource.com/  Email: [email protected] Phone: 415-499-9906  
45m
04/06/2024

A Guide to Strategic Planning with Chad Prinkey

In this episode of Construction Genius Podcast, we explore the ins and outs of strategic planning, where organizations tend to make decisions about their organizational growth and how to get there. We see to it that you understand the importance of owners on clarity, honesty about your financial goals, the flaws of owners that need to be remedied, the balanced relationship between ambition and prudence, and gathering information from all your employees for the process of strategic planning. Join us as we take a deep dive into the secrets of successful strategic planning with Chad Prinkey. Chad Prinkey is a building industry consultant who helps to create outstanding construction firms and cooperative project teams while advancing the sector overall. He is the owner of Well Built Consulting, a consulting firm with solutions focused on the construction industry. His passion is to fix broken things by identifying their intended function and making the necessary adjustments. He founded Well Built Construction Consulting to establish a community that revolves around this endeavor. He is a firm believer that the building industry is the soul of America and the heartbeat of the economy. Throughout the conversation, Chad shares his thoughts, knowledge, and experiences on what questions construction owners need to ask themselves to find clarity on their accomplishments, how figuring out your flaws and getting help can push you to be a successful construction owner, and the things you need to be aware of to have a healthy growth pattern. Furthermore, we pay attention to how to balance ambition and prudence when one cannot exist without the other, prior preparations for strategic planning, and the main reason for a strategic plan's failure.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [04.05] Strategic planning and what it entails.  [08.27] Owners on clarity – The questions construction owners need to ask in the process of strategic planning.  [12.17] Honesty – Why people find it difficult to be honest about their financial goals. [20.04] The happiest and most successful people in the construction industry are the ones who figure out what their flaws are and how to overcome them.  [26.10] Vision – The importance of having a clearly defined vision.  [30.00] How to have a healthy growth pattern in your business.  [33.34] The balance between ambition and prudence.  [37.16] A checklist of prior preparations for entering the strategic planning process. [44.16] The importance of gathering information from all the key people for strategic planning.  [54.38] The cause of a strategic plan's downfall.   KEY TAKEAWAYS ‘What am I trying to accomplish?’ is the first question that construction owners need to ask in the process of strategic planning.  Always try to be honest with the financial success you aim to achieve.  Figuring out what you’re not good at is the first key element of a fundamental change to achieve success.  Make sure everything you put into the system is not going to make your system sick when it comes to growth.  Don’t allow your prudence to keep you from dreaming, don’t allow your dreams to force you to make bad choices.    Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES: Connect with Chad Prinkey LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/  Website - wellbuiltconsulting.com/  Podcast -  podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-morning-huddle-construction-show/id1629629592 Check out Chad’s Book Well Built: How the Top 2% of Construction Contractors Create Superior Value, Profits, and Excellence: www.amazon.com/Well-Built-Construction-Contractors-Excellence/dp/B0CZ5GRLQG
57m
28/05/2024

From Pain to Profit: Making Your Business a Joyful Success with Mike Paton

Delving headfirst into the entrepreneurial world, where people struggle with maintaining passion, Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS®) and mistakes, trust issues vs. performance issues, being a great leader and a manager, and creating change rather than waiting for it to happen. Let’s take a careful look beyond the surface of the entrepreneurial world with Mike Paton and help others master the timeless disciplines and practical tools of the Entrepreneurial Operating System®. Mike Paton is a speaker, author, EOS® Implementer, and former visionary at EOS® Worldwide. Over the past fifteen years, he has dedicated every working day to assisting thousands of leaders worldwide in operating their businesses and leading better lives. He is the host of one of the top-rated podcasts, ‘The EOS Leader', and co-authored two books: ‘Get A Grip’ and ‘Process.’ Throughout the conversation, Mike shares his thoughts and knowledge on why entrepreneurs lose passion for their work halfway into the state of quitting, how a visionary differs from an integrator, and how figuring out what personality you prefer will benefit the organization. He makes it clear there’s a difference between trust issues and job performance issues and how to detangle one from the other. When you are a leader or a manager, you can’t ignore your responsibilities to your employees and wait for the change to happen. Clear communication between you as a leader and the employees is vital to continuing to work in harmony in the workplace. Wrapping up the conversation, Mike generously shares his thoughts on the importance of fulfilling the responsibilities of a leader and some advice for entrepreneurs who want to take their organization to the next level.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [03:43] The Passion – The possibility of losing interest in your work as an entrepreneur due to mundane stuff.  [05:18] The difference between a visionary and an integrator. [10:22] Level 10 meeting – How a level 10 meeting can help the visionary to figure out what is and isn’t working.  [15:29] Trust issues – How to understand the difference between trust issues and job performance issues. [22:01] Common mistakes people make when they try to implement the EOS® model into their operations. [27:23] How can a great leader become a great manager. [33:47] Change – The importance of fulfilling your obligations as a leader before being frustrated over the change that doesn’t seem to happen on its own.  [39:07] Advice for middle managers on how to lead up and down through the organization.  [44:47] Personal issue-solving sessions and how to identify if your organization is not structured correctly.  [46.46] Advice for entrepreneurs who are in the stage of quitting because of the stress and overwhelming responsibilities but want to get the organization to the next level.    KEY TAKEAWAYS When you are in a rapidly growing organization, try to understand what type of a person you are; a visionary or an integrator. A weekly level 10 meeting can help the visionary or the leaders to find out if their involvement is needed or not. Make sure you have the right person at the right seat who shares the core values of your organization.  Try to approach the EOS model as a holistic approach rather than focusing on one component exclusively.  Always try to communicate your thoughts and feedback with employees as a leader or a manager.   Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me   RESOURCES: Connect with Mike LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/mikepaton  Website - eosworldwide.com/mike-paton  Twitter - twitter.com/mpaton  YouTube - youtube.com/@MikePaton    Books co-authored by Mike Paton Get A Grip: How to Get Everything You Want from Your Entrepreneurial Business goodreads.com/en/book/show/13586952  Process!: How Discipline and Consistency Will Set You and Your Business Free goodreads.com/en/book/show/61124734   
53m
30/04/2024

Sales Management That Works: How to Sell in a World that Never Stops Changing

Welcome to Construction Genius. Today's guest is Frank Cespedes, a Harvard Business School professor and former managing partner at a Professional Services firm. With extensive experience in go-to-market strategy globally, he's also contributed to prestigious publications like Harvard Business Review and the Wall Street Journal. Frank joins the show to discuss his book, "Aligning Strategy and Sales," emphasizing the crucial link between strategy clarity and effective sales direction. The conversation delves into the unique challenges of selling in construction, highlighting the technical nature of the industry and the importance of tailored sales training and incentives. Regardless of a company's size, Frank underscores the president's essential role in business development, particularly for mid to large-sized enterprises where leadership can become detached from sales activities. Tune in for practical insights that will enhance your sales strategies and team development. Thank you for joining Construction Genius today!   Buy Frank’s Books: Sales Management That Works: How to Sell in a World that Never Stops Changing - https://www.amazon.com/Sales-Management-That-Works-Changing/dp/1633698769   Aligning Strategy and Sales: The Choices, Systems, and Behaviors that Drive Effective Selling https://www.amazon.com/Aligning-Strategy-Sales-Behaviors-Effective/dp/1422196054   Buy Eric's Book: Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/    Get Coaching with Eric: www.constructiongenius.com/contact  
45m
23/04/2024

The Game Plan: Leadership Lessons From The Field To The Office With Les O’Hara

Managing a business team is pretty much like handling a sports team. That’s why former football coach Les O’Hara now applies his game plan on the field to creating high-performing professional teams. Joining Eric Anderton, he shares how he applies football concepts and lessons to the construction business, which results in better teamwork and highly desirable outputs. Les also talks about the concept of a 90-minute block (and how to spend it wisely) and his four-quadrant approach to helping others determine their unique strengths. Furthermore, find out why having a business coach is never a bad idea and the very important reason why you must get your own chief of staff. Get the One Book Every Construction Leader Must Read: Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/  Need executive coaching? Book a short call with Eric to discuss how he can help: https://10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me  Website: https://www.thecontractorhuddle.com/playbook Website:https://build12.com/ Website: https://northshorebrickwork.com/ LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesohara/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/thecontractorhuddle FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550118445654 Twitter: https://twitter.com/lesohara Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Build12Network
46m
16/04/2024

From Bid To Build: Revolutionizing Construction Through Strategic Process Management With Moustafa Moursy

Process improvement holds significant potential for enhancing the profitability of your construction business, and the cherry on top is that it is where you have the most amount of control. Join Eric Anderton and guest, Moustafa Moursy of Push Analytics, as they explore the fundamental concepts of strategic process management and how they can revolutionize the way construction businesses operate. From defining processes and identifying key areas for improvement to balancing detail and flexibility, they unravel the essential components of strategic process management. Eric and Moustafa’s in-depth discussion covers crucial topics such as setting up processes, optimizing project management, and fostering collaboration with the executive team. Gain invaluable insights into onboarding salespeople, leveraging technical knowledge in sales strategies, and enhancing the overall customer experience. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the construction industry, this episode offers practical guidance for maximizing profitability through process improvement. Tune in now and elevate your construction business to new heights of success! Get the One Book Every Construction Leader Must Read: Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/ Need executive coaching? Book a short call with Eric to discuss how he can help: https://10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me Website: https://pushanalytics.com/ LinkedIn Handle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moustafa-m-71909456/
47m
02/04/2024

Brick By Digital Brick: A Construction CEO’s Guide To Building A Strong Social Media Foundation With Emma Tessler

Having a strong presence on social media isn’t just about physical structures, but about creating genuine connections that set the groundwork for success in the digital era. In this episode, we have Emma Tessler, founder of Ninety Five Media, reveal the construction CEO’s guide to building a strong social media foundation. Discover why diversifying your social media team, including field personnel, is crucial for authentic engagement. She also discusses how storytelling can set your construction brand apart and foster trust with your audience. Emma highlights the importance of crafting a diverse range of content buckets, promoting in multiple media forms, and more. Tune in now and learn how to maximize your presence! Buy Eric’s Book: Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies – https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T Need an Executive Coach? Book in 10 Minutes to chat about how Eric can help: https://10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me Ninety Five Media: https://ninetyfivemedia.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ninety.five.media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmatessler Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stop-scrolling-start-scaling-podcast/id1635151196  Learn how to create content that converts: https://ninety-five-media.mykajabi.com/mym
51m
30/01/2024

Managing Cash And Crews: Surviving A Recession In The Construction Industry

Building a resilient construction business is not about surviving the storm, it's about managing cash and crews to thrive through any challenge, even a recession. In this episode, Scott Peper joins us to discover the challenges and opportunities faced by the construction industry, especially in the turbulent waters of a recession. Scott explores the survival strategies needed for construction businesses, big or small, to weather a financial storm and venture afloat when facing a recession. He explains why cross-training your teams across various services is a vital aspect of business resilience. He also lists down the dos and don'ts when managing financial crises in construction, from the risks of taking new debt to the importance of having cash reserves. Scott plugs in his book, "The Big Book of Cash Flow," which helps understand the financial side of your construction business. Uncomplicated, informative, and full of practical advice, it's a must-read for anyone looking to strengthen their financial acumen in construction. Tune in now and learn how to keep your construction business afloat, no matter the weather.   Buy Eric's Book: Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/   Get Coaching with Eric: www.constructiongenius.com/contact  
49m