Happy 2022! There’s a big difference between knowing what an intention is and being intentional in your life and business. Brad dives into the importance of being intentional and reviewing your goals from last year, and how you can set and achieve goals with more intention in 2022!In this episode, we talk about…Why does being intentional matter?The importance of reviewing 2021’s goals and numbersSuggestions for setting revenue goals in 2022The difference between being profitable vs. being busyHow to be more intentional:Get your mindset right—be proactive vs. reactionaryCreate a morning routineCreate a schedule and stick to itTrack your numbers—leads, sales, job costingBe intentional about your employees and time with your familyAdvice to schedule reminders to build intentional habits Links to Resources:Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Even if your wife doesn’t work alongside you in your contracting business, it’s important to be on the same page. Brad’s wife Bethany shares what it’s really like to be a contractor’s wife.In this episode, we talk about…What it’s like being married to a contractorThe learning curve that comes with being newly married and a contractor’s wifeHow the financial stress of a new contractor’s business can impact your familyFighting over where a contractor’s time should be spent building the business or with familyRecognizing the investment of owning a business vs. not knowing the day to day challengesThe difficulty of only hearing the negative side of business vs. the wins and learning how to shift your mindsetWhat Bethany would change about the contracting business if she had a magic wandWhat contractors need to understand about a wife’s perspectiveAdvice for contractor’s wives to be supportive and extend grace, especially when things get tough Links to Resources:Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sales isn’t always about numbers. Drew Collins explains why providing value to customers is key and encourages contractors to shift their mindset, charge more and start investing in themselves and their business! In this episode, we talk about…Drew’s experience of making $15/hr as a contractor to becoming a Profit Club AmbassadorWhat Drew’s sales process was like before shifting his mindset that he can charge moreThe power of not being afraid and knowing your numbers and sales processWhy it’s not about price but about the value you bring peopleThe importance of asking questions vs. giving informationWords of wisdom for contractors who don’t think they can charge for a consultationWhy Drew’s personal life has improved over the past few yearsAdvice for contractors unsure if they should invest in themselves: Ask yourself what if it’s the best decision you’ve ever made?  Links to Resources:Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You must have the right mindset to not just sell a customer, but make them believe you can provide what they want. Listen to learn why you must believe selling is a positive experience and helpful tips for making your sales calls more successful! In this episode, we talk about…3 Questions to ask yourself about sales: 1. Do I believe selling is a negative experience?2. Do I think prospects lie when I’m talking to them?3. Do I make assumptions about the call ahead of time based on information I’ve received about the call?Why you must believe selling is a positive experienceAdvice for contractors, especially one man business owners—Make sure your voicemail specifies who you are and how they can work with youHave a dedicated space for sales calls—keep everything you need in one spotSet up your sales call for specific times—Don’t take calls randomly throughout the dayCreate an alter ego and learn to use it when neededRemember a sales call is to help your prospects, not sell themThe importance of learning how to sell outcomes, not products Links to Resources:Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you suck at sales and don’t even know it? Take a moment to step back and really look at your sales process! In this episode, we talk about…What if you suck at sales and don’t even know it?What the word “Free” really says to your customersWhen you discount, you're going to get people who look for discountsWhy you should stop negotiating with yourself and charge rightWe have two ears and one mouth for a reason—stop talking too muchKnow who the decision maker is and sell to themDon’t ask for a budget. Figure out what they want and share how much it’ll cost to fulfill that dreamThe difference between giving an estimate vs. ballpark pricesThere’s no reason to ever badmouth another contractorAdvice for auditing your sales process Links to Resources:Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Clubwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The way to success isn't just a one-and-done process; it’s dynamic. In order to achieve success, you need to improvise yourself, adapt to changes, and overcome challenges.In this episode, we talk about…Why do most of the contractors fail?What one should do if s/he has lost their path to the goal?Which path should one take to get success?Improvise, adapt and overcome — everything you do not always go right.Embracing change so much that it's the only option is to love it.Expecting changes and anticipating your competitionExpecting the worst and hoping for the betterHow bad anticipation is goodLoving the challenge of changeGetting your job done without stressLinks to Resources:Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Without pressure, complacency sets in. But with too much, you get stressed, overwhelmed, and unhealthy. So, is pressure good or bad?In this episode, we talk about…Some self-inflicted pressure the guys have taken on recently.Why you sometimes need to learn to say no.How diversification over specialization in your business can be dangerous, because it can dilute your product and skills.Achieving a balance between reaching your full potential but not stressing yourself out to the point of overwhelm.Why we all get to the end of our rope sometimes, and that’s ok!Why you should still sometimes set goals that you think are too high to attain.How to come out of the other side of pressure as a diamond!Links to Resources:Learn how to better manage pressure in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Construction hasn’t always had the best image, despite having a good side. It’s time to make a change!In this episode, we talk about…How the not-great contractors and construction workers out there can ruin the image of the industry for the rest of us.Why protecting a false image of success is a mistake.How some contractors who seem to be doing well and living large on social media might not be doing basic things like following up with customers and paying taxes.Substance abuse issues within the industry.Why you probably need to be taking your image more seriously than you are now.How your personal life reflects on your professional image.Education and awareness that is needed for contractors to help everyone’s image across the board.Differing opinions on how appearances - like the truck you drive - factor into your professional image.How charging the appropriate amount of money for your jobs is going to enable you to boost your image.Examples of fronting and why you need to stop doing it.Actionable steps you can start taking to fix your image.Links to Resources:Our free worksheet - https://www.hammerandgrind.com/jobcostingWork on your image in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your employees have to feel significant and feel what they’re doing has meaning in order for your business to be the best it can be.In this episode, we talk about…The definition of significance.How encouraging some level of autonomy amongst your employees helps.Why it all goes back to hiring the right people.How software like Trello and Asana can help you keep your team organized.Finding significance in the actual significance of the service you’re providing for your clients and how it will impact their lives.The balance between encouraging productivity and not micro-managing.Links to Resources:Asana - https://asana.com/Trello - https://trello.com/Chat with other contractors about workplace culture in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the culture of your workplace right now? Are you fostering an environment people want to be in? Listen up to learn more about how to create the best culture around.In this episode, we talk about…The definition of workplace culture and the two different facets of your company’s culture.How culture starts with your core values and company’s mission statement.How customers will pick up on and appreciate your happy workplace culture.The guys’ core values for their companies and how they practice them.How to use an employee handbook to foster the workplace culture you want.Why you need to set clear goals for your employees and not tolerate it when they don’t follow the rules you’ve set in place.How to incorporate recognition into your workplace to keep employees happy.The value of being transparent with your employees.Ways to be flexible with your team.The value of planning fun outings or parties for your crew.4 “don’ts” to avoid when developing your workplace culture.The importance of intentionality.Links to Resources:Chat with other contractors about workplace culture in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s topic is incredibly important, even though it’s a topic that’s often overlooked in business coaching circles.In this episode, we talk about…How construction workers are four times more likely to commit suicide than the general population.Stressors that business owners face which can contribute to poor mental health.Why running your business efficiently can improve your mental health.The importance of finding a balance between money and mental health.Why being a boss can mean you often have to take on the problems and mental health struggles of your employees.Some signs to look for to let you know that you might be having a mental health issue.What people think support looks and sounds like versus what it actually is.Tips for improving your mental health, why many people want to take the easy way out, and why you shouldn’t.How challenge and discomfort are actually vital to mental health.Words of encouragement in case you’re going through a rough time.Links to Resources:Take your game up five notches in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just about everyone can relate to this phrase, and while it does technically imply growth, it’s something people say when they’re upset and frustrated about how things are going. But is that the right mindset?In this episode, we talk about…How the original intent of the phrase “2 steps forward, 1 step back” was positive - because it ultimately means that your needle is moving forward.How it’s natural for your business to have ups and downs and why you might need to adjust your mindset to cope with that reality.How sometimes that step back can lead to more steps forward down the road, so you need to have perspective on the big picture.Examples of when the guys have had to cope with steps back in their business and how they’ve done it.Why you need to own and recognize when that step back was due to your actions - a victim mentality will not help your business.Why even failure can mean growth and benefits - “fail forward.”How groups and mentorships can help you develop a better mindset around this topic.Links to Resources:The Obstacle is the Way book - https://www.amazon.com/Obstacle-Way-Timeless-Turning-Triumph/dp/1591846358Take your game up five notches in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/Website – www.hammerandgrind.comHelp us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you aware of how your ego affects your sales? It’s a common struggle for everyone so listen up as the guys share the power of suppressing your ego and why you don’t always have to be the expert in the room! In this episode, we talk about…Defining what ego meansThe difference of being conscious vs. unconscious of your egoMistaking confidence for arrogance and finding the balance between confidence and humility  4 Levels of Learning and how your ego responds in different learning environmentsWhy you don’t want to come across as the expert in the sales processThe value of asking questions instead of getting fired up Suppressing your ego and having genuine conversations with customers Understanding the universal language of silence Links to Resources:Markup & Profit by Michael Stone - https://www.amazon.com/Markup-Profit-Contractors-Guide-Revisited/dp/1572182717/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3SZIE9RK5RBG2&dchild=1&keywords=markup+and+profit&qid=1629677041&sprefix=markup%2Caps%2C184&sr=8-1The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber - https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280/ref=sr_1_1?crid=271QEAOJ63BHU&dchild=1&keywords=the+e-myth+revisited&qid=1629677006&sprefix=the+e-myth%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-1 Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You know you want to - but maybe you’re afraid you’ll scare off potential customers. Listen in for the breakdown of all the reasons why you can’t underbid just to try to get the job.In this episode, we talk about…How, contrary to what you might think, undercharging is a disservice to your customer, because you’ll be a “frantic finisher” rushing to get their job done.How you need to be on your own business’s payroll and charge enough so that you’re getting paid, just like your employees.Why if your spouse is helping you out with the business, they need to be getting a salary, too!How you need to get ahead of your expenses by giving yourself an appropriate salary, so you’re not chasing credit card payments and losing money on interest.The importance of marketing, and how it takes cash to do it right!Why you need enough money to create a happy work culture (and pay your employees enough, too) and attract good people to work for you.Reasons why you should have a rainy day fund.How charging more covers you for when the job takes longer than planned (which it so often does).The importance of KPIs.Why the right customer is willing to pay double whatever you’re charging right now.Links to Resources:Take your game up five notches in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The guys are joined by special guest Thomas Williams, an expert in the field of sales, who is here to discuss a very important topic.In this episode, we talk about…Thomas’s background and how he started a gutter business and a remodeling business without hands-on contracting experience.Thomas’s specialties, which are business and communication.Why Thomas decided to begin participating in sales role plays after 19 years of successfully running businesses and how role-playing is beneficial for everyone, no matter how much experience they have.Why you need to develop repeatable processes for sales.The four step Profit Sales System and how it can help you and save you time.What a sales role play is and how it works to prepare you for sales calls.Reasons why some contractors don’t want to role play, and rebuttals against those reasons.“A-ha” moments that Thomas had during the role play process.How the Profit Sales System better prepared Thomas’s businesses to survive COVID.Reasons for charging a consultation fee, and how role playing gives you the confidence you need to sell that to potential customers.Links to Resources:Start role playing in the Profit Club – www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back in the day, you used to be able to take trades classes in school, but a lot of that has been phased out to make more room for technology classes. This means “contractor school” essentially doesn’t exist.In this episode, we talk about…How right now is a GREAT time to be a contractor.Why even though business is booming for contractors at the moment, you should safeguard your business for leaner times ahead. (ie, be thoughtful about big purchases)How there’s no contracting school and you do your real learning through experience.Generational differences in working with young apprentices today. For instance, they tend to need more validation on the job from their mentors.The personality type best suited to being in the trades - usually people who enjoy being outdoors and creating things with their hands.Important skills you need to learn for contracting, including math, psychology for understanding people and your own mindset, and marketing.How contracting is hard and the average person needs help and support early and often to get good at it.The differences between business coaches and construction coaches, and how both are important.Links to Resources:Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sometimes contractors are their own worst enemy without even realizing it. Be sure to listen to what your customer really wants and don’t sell past the yes! In this episode, we talk about…3 Things that cost you the sale:1 - Self-Promotion: Let go of the need to prove you’re an expert. 2 - Tech Talk: Not every customer wants technical details about your service or product. Answer the questions you’re asked instead of giving excess information.  3 - Assumptions: There’s a difference between assumptions and self-awareness. Don’t let assumptions dictate your actions.Links to Resources:Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re ready for your business to dominate, it’s crucial to understand the steps to make your dream a reality. Listen to the breakdown of the Profit Funnel so you can take your business to the next level! In this episode, we talk about…What it means to dominate the competition without crushing themThe value of cooperating competitionWhy key performance indicators (KPIs) matter Understanding how much money you must make and reverse engineering what you want for your life The Profit Funnel Steps1-Get qualified leads in 2-Multi-pronged marketing 3-Sell the job and close the deal4-Job cost EVERY jobWhy the beginning and the end of the funnel are the most important pieces to your business Links to Resources:Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today’s subject is something that affects every contractor eventually, and sometimes multiple times over their career. Listen to learn what The Crazy Cycle is and how to protect yourself from getting trapped in it.In this episode, we talk about…The Crazy Cycle - when your business runs you, and you can’t see that it’s happening.Why The Crazy Cycle affects different people in different ways.Examples of paths that can take you directly into The Crazy Cycle.Why you need to think of yourself as a business-owner first, and a craftsperson second.Symptoms of The Crazy Cycle that can mess with your business and even bleed into your life.What contractors can do to get out of The Crazy Cycle and/or prevent it from happening.Why it’s essential to understand sales, accounting, and the profit funnel.Thoughts on “the going rate.”The importance of getting help from a coach or a book or joining a group of like-minded people (or all three!).Links to Resources:Markup & Profit by Michael Stone - https://www.amazon.com/Markup-Profit-Contractors-Guide-Revisited/dp/1572182717/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3SZIE9RK5RBG2&dchild=1&keywords=markup+and+profit&qid=1629677041&sprefix=markup%2Caps%2C184&sr=8-1The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber - https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280/ref=sr_1_1?crid=271QEAOJ63BHU&dchild=1&keywords=the+e-myth+revisited&qid=1629677006&sprefix=the+e-myth%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-1 Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you know that 96% of contractors will fail within their first ten years of business? That statistic is shocking! Listen in for some of the reasons many contractors tend to fail so that you can avoid their fate.In this episode, we talk about…How construction and contracting businesses actually have the highest failure rate of any other business.Marketing: The guys actually agree that this is the most important factor, because if your marketing isn’t successful, you won’t get any customers, so it should be a full-time position in your business.Insufficient Cash Flow: this can lead to serious problems, and it’s all too common!Charging Too Little: This all comes down to good sales technique and confidence - and if you charge the right amount, chances are you won’t have cash flow problems!Excessive Overhead and/or Employees: You’ve all seen a brand-new company spend way too much on swag on fancy equipment, right? It’s important not to scale too fast.Lack of Organization: This can cause a lot of problems, frustrate your customers, and affect profitability.How business coaches can help you avoid these mistakes and everyone can benefit from some help.Links to Resources:Profit First by Mike Michalowicz - https://www.amazon.com/Profit-First-Transform-Cash-Eating-Money-Making/dp/073521414X/Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every action you take - or don’t take - moves the figurative needle of your business forward or backwards. Which direction is your needle moving?In this episode, we talk about…A great book that’s inspiring today’s show (see the links below)How things that are easy to do are even easier not to do (but you should do them anyway).Why you need to continuously recalibrate your business plan so you don’t end up on autopilot.Why you need to identify the critical tasks that will move you closer to your goals - and add deadlines.The importance of creating micro-steps that break down your big priorities into actionable steps.How to block out time to get done what you need to get done.Why you have to delegate ...or else you’ll stagnate!How sharing your goals with other people helps hold you accountable.Links to Resources:The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson - https://www.amazon.com/Slight-Edge-Turning-Disciplines-Happiness/dp/1626340463/Calendly - https://calendly.com/Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/hammerandgrindpodcast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hammerandgrindpodcast/ Brad Huebner’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/teamhandy/ Eric Triplett’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theponddigger/ Website – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you fully grabbed sales by the reins? Just like losing weight, it requires a lifestyle change and several months of effort to reap the benefits. But the transformation you’ll feel is worth it!In this episode, we talk about…That you need to learn and recognize that you need some help with sales to start your transformation.Whether or not to charge for estimates and the importance of weeding out tire-kickers.How business is a moving target, so you always need to be on your toes.The dangers of getting too comfortable.What it takes to improve a skill set and why most people fail before they even start.Objections you might face when you’re starting to try to be better at sales.Why you need to audit your time plus tips to maximize your free time.The importance of intentional decompression time.Links to Resources:Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – Hammer and GrindInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The guys are joined by a special guest today - Caleb Larkin from ApplicantPro is here to talk about hiring!In this episode, we talk about…Why lots of people are struggling with hiring right now, and the factors we can’t control versus factors we can control.How more applicants are passing by job opportunities these days.Some of the most difficult positions to find qualified candidates for in contracting.Why, when you’re hiring, you need to get in the mindset of someone looking for a job - would you apply to your own job?How to choose where to list and market your job openings.Why you need to take responsibility for your job culture to make it more appealing for applicants.Why you should be as transparent as possible in an interview.How ApplicantPro works and how it helps contractors.How to find and recruit the really good employees, who tend to already be working for someone.Links to Resources:www.applicantpro.com Instructions to get 20% off the first 3 months of ApplicantPro:Go to Online appointment scheduling here: https://go.oncehub.com/calebSelect 1-hour Presentation and fill out the form.In the "What would you like to cover during this call" question.Enter Hammer & GrindProfit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – Hammer and GrindInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Don’t get caught in the trap of thinking that being a business owner means you need to be a doormat in order to please everyone. Listen up for a big mindset shift you need to make!In this episode, we talk about…Why you might be tempted to give every person that calls you an estimate - but you shouldn’t waste your time until you’ve pre-qualified people.How money can tempt you to begin taking on services outside the scope of your business, and why you should avoid this.Why if a client is giving you red flags, you need to take action early on in the process.Some examples of stories the guys have had with difficult clients who wanted them to be order takers.How to handle special requests that come in from customers.Various ways that working with a customer is like a marriage, including that it is an equal partnership with mutual benefits.How the professionals in the Profit Club group are a great support system to help you take ownership of yourself, learn, and grow.Links to Resources:Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – Hammer and GrindInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So many people doubt themselves or feel like they don’t belong where they are. This is called imposter syndrome, and it’s all in your head!In this episode, we talk about…How must of us think we’re not as good as we are, when chances are, other people don’t think that about us.Why a small amount of self-doubt is helpful for humility and growth, but too much can be detrimental.How to leverage self-critical thoughts to get better.Tips and tricks to cope with imposter syndrome when it crops up.How imposter syndrome is quite common and happens to people at all levels of their career.Why you don’t need to be an expert to teach others and how we all have something to offer.Experiences the guys have with imposter syndrome. Links to Resources:Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – Hammer and GrindInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If it’s your business, why not run it the way you want to? You have to remember the reason you started your business in the first place and tailor your business to meet those goals and expectations.In this episode, we talk about…The difference between providing excellent service for your customers - on your terms - versus being too much of a people-pleaser and letting your customers take advantage of you.Examples of you can set parameters to operate your business the way that you want to.How to set boundaries for yourself and protect your personal time.How to not let your employees give you the runaround, either.Why your customer is not your boss - it’s a mutual agreement.Links to Resources:Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – Hammer and GrindInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If it’s your business, it’s your fault! If things aren’t going the way you want them to, you need to accept that and take responsibility rather than point the finger at your employees.In this episode, we talk about…Reasons why your employee’s shortcomings come back to you.A couple of books you should read about leadership.Why you can’t have the victim mentality.A few exceptions to the rule where something isn’t your fault.How to learn from your mistakes - which is hard when you can’t admit something is your fault.Thoughts on the journey towards self-mastery and growth.How to hold employees accountable and create a culture of discipline in the workplace.Strategies for taking ownership of the situation when things aren’t going the way you want with your business.How you can practice taking accountability with role plays in the coaching group.Links to Resources:Check out the books we recommended.Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclub Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroup Facebook – Hammer and GrindInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP17Are 7 Touches Still Important?The basic marketing principle of 7 touches is; it takes seven marketing impressions or touches, to get a prospect engaged with you to purchase.This could be a sighting of your branded vehicle, a visit to your website, some social proofing on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube, the phone call, word of mouth, a yard sign and the list goes on and on. While Brad and Eric debate and disagree what the most important marketing move might be for a given company, they both agree, the Seven Touches Rule is an old marketing principle and is arguably no longer a SEVEN!You may know the “6 degrees of separation” principle implies all people are six or fewer social connections away from each other! Imagine you are only six social connections away from having coffee with your favorite actor, politician or musician! Considering the internet has evolved and social media has exploded over the last decade, these numbers must certainly be shrinking.The six degrees of separation theoretically could be 3 degrees and the 7 touches marketing principle might only be 4 touches in today’s marketplace!The question becomes, what are the most important marketing touches to focus on? Brad and Eric agree a solid and sustainable company should be hitting on all marketing cylinders! Whether the 7 touches remain accurate or not, becoming laser focused on promoting your company (your brand) on video, audio, social media platforms, a solid website, networking groups, collaborating with supporting companies, your company apparel and uniforms, vehicle wraps, capturing reviews, word of mouth exposure and EVERY creative marketing method to wisely tick the needle forward is paramount in business today.Keep in mind, you’ll never truly know which marketing touch is working unless you are asking your prospects how they found out about your company and tracking the data. This is quite possibly the biggest take away from this podcast download.Even if you are tracking, keep in mind, if the prospect tells you they found your company because of your truck wrap, it certainly isn’t the only touch or THE touch that convinced the prospect to choose your company, so make every touch count!Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP16Are You Checking Your Vitals?The single most important KPI (Key Performance Indicator) to the success of your business - is Job Costing! That being the case, why is it that the mass majority of construction companies ignore this vital number? Possibly because a great majority of contractors come up in the construction business as a craftsman and become business owners along their journey without any training, guidance, or business assistance. Essentially jumping from the frying pan into the fire! Tracking how much profit you make on each and every project is like checking your vitals. Businesses either live and thrive or sink and die by this KPI.If you are not tracking your job costing on your projects it is probably better that your business sinks and dies quickly so you don’t lead a long, painfully struggling, business hell - for decades to come.Keeping a close eye on your Job Costing can tell you if your estimating is weak or strong, if your production division is efficient or worthless, if your employees are stealing, if your business is growing or shrinking, if you are in a deficit decline or surplus growth pattern, it can determine if your crew deserves a bonus, raises, or a swift kick in the @$$! Job Costing lets you know if you are winning or losing! Most contractors have a competitive DNA to some degree, so why is it that a majority of them do not do job costing?Is it because they don’t care, they don’t know any better, they are stupid, maybe ignorant, or is it because they secretly hate their business and want to lead a miserably unfulfilled, uncertain life?You tell me. Are you Job Costing?Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP 15Not My Client!What comes to mind, when you hear a contractor immediately label a prospect that doesn’t use their product or services as “Not My Client”?Do you want to give that contractor a high five and share similar stories of how not every prospect is your client and some of these people need to wake the eff up and kick rocks!?ORDo you wonder how the prospect was attracted to the contractor in the first place? Was the marketing message correct in targeting the right prospect? How was the prospect received into the sales process and how did the prospect “feel” at the end of the interaction with the contractor.If you said, “Yes” to handing out the High Five’s, you might want to rethink your mindset.The real question we should be asking ourselves as entrepreneur contractors is; Are we talking to the wrong prospects or talking wrong to our prospects?Contractors have so much on the line when receiving prospects into their funnel, not only financially but emotionally as well. While it is true, not every prospect is your client, I hope you see how the mentality of writing off a prospect as “NOT MY CLIENT, they can’t afford me, is a defense mechanism contractors use in order to protect their egos and keep them from emotional despair. Catch this podcast to help you break that fixed mindset and expose yourself to the truth. Profit Club – Paid Coaching group www.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecontractorprofitgroupFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastBrad’s Instagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerEric’s Instagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP14Your Feelings Don’t Matter!Why is it that so many entrepreneurs are soft? Thin skinned? Sensitive? Weak? When you become a business owner, an entrepreneur and truly embark on a journey to self-mastery, you need to put your feelings on the shelf! Do you want a football coach that speaks softly and politely to you during practice? After you get your ass kicked on the gridiron, do you want your coach to hug you and tell you how special you are? Or do you want the football coach that gets after you relentlessly, driving out your weaknesses, and demands you improve upon your strengths, so you’re the one doing the ass kicking on the gridiron. While Brad and Eric with their wildly different personalities don’t always agree on topics, they both firmly believe in facing your weaknesses head on, no sugar coating of feelings, tell it like it is, demand greatness coaching. When you lean into a mastermind group, coaching program or sales training to make improvements on your business, personal development, communication skills, and financial freedoms, you damn well better leave your sensitive feelings in the locker room. Don’t let your feelings hold you back from improvements that can literally change the course of your life – Fuck Your Feelings and Win!Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP 13This One Thing Is Costing You Thousands!This podcast will save you thousands and thousands of dollars if you pay attention and take action on the challenge presented at the end of the download!Brad kicks off the podcast sharing a story about how he lost a couple of thousand dollars in the blink of an eye, bidding against himself! Stop negotiating with yourself before sharing the number with your client! Every contractor that has ever pitched a number for a project to a prospect has negotiated with themselves for the client into reducing the price of the project before ever sharing the number with the client!Why do we do this? How do we identify when we are bidding against ourselves and how in the world can we train ourselves to stop this behavior?Brad and Eric discuss why they do not like working for sweet old ladies. Especially the ones that cook amazing meatballs!Too often, we find ourselves questioning if the price we are going to pitch is the right price and if the client can afford or be willing to pay our asking price.Knowing your numbers on your installations and standing tall on your necessary gross profit to achieve your desired net profit for each project you tackle is the key component to breaking the habit of bidding against yourself.Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP 12Your Branding Sucks!Learn a little history lesson right off the bat about branding in this podcast as Eric shares a little Ranch Life, Cowboy story.Find out where the idea of branding actually came from and when it all began.While branding is not marketing, and marketing is not branding, they do go hand in hand to complement and support each other in sharing a company’s reputation. Branding is not just about a company’s reputation. A company brand expands into the company’s vision and culture using icon logos, slogans, jingles, influencers, and much, much more.While discussing some of the largest brands in the world, Brad and Eric take a twist into the emotions behind these brands and how they make you feel not only about the company but about yourself as well. Using big brands as examples, the direction of the podcast turns to how contractors can reflect on the foundation of what the big brands do as examples of what to do and what not to do!Eric and his wife Leslie are still pissed off at Anheuser Busch because they stopped using the Clydesdale horses in their beer commercials. You don’t want to miss out when Brad and Eric go into a back and forth, Round Robin spitting out examples of Why Your Branding Sucks!Let’s hope they aren’t talking about you and your construction company’s brand! Dive deep into the weeds on this polarizing topic with Brad and Eric on this podcast. Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To Charge Or Not To Charge For Estimates?This topic is borderline controversial. A lot of contractors feel like running out to provide a client with a FREE ESTIMATE is simply a cost of doing business, while other contractors want to be paid for their time and expertise. Let’s dig into this topic.There are prospects that literally plan on collecting multiple FREE ESTIMATES, running several contractors into the ground to get the best possible ideas and leveraging the contractors against each other for the best possible price!On the flip side, there are wonderful prospects looking for a positive interaction, with a quality contractor, willing to pay a fair price for the work they want done and will happily pay for a consultation. Listen up as Brad and Eric discuss what the difference between an estimate and a consultation is, how they discuss the differences with their clients and ultimately how they offer free estimates and paid consultation services. Don’t charge your good customers for the run-around time with bad customers!Stop chasing around nonsense clients.Learn how to communicate well with your clients.Learn how to provide so much value to your prospects that they will gladly pay you for your consultation time. If you are consulting with a client for a $20,000.00 project and the client is not willing to pay you $250 as a consultant, that should be a RED FLAG! Either you are not dealing with a serious prospect or you have some serious work to do on your branding. Dive deep into the weeds on this Important topic with Brad and Eric on this podcast. Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP10Emotions Behind The Buying Decision There is so much more behind the person buying from a contractor than just fulfilling a need. Pain and Pleasure is a real testimony and the fundamental foundation of the emotions behind the buying decision. Most of the time people are making decisions to either avoid pain or gain pleasure. Most contractors go from craftsman to business person and along the journey, somehow, someway, figure out how to sell their services without getting any schooling, training or coaching on sales. So unless the contractor has a naturally High Emotional Intelligence, they overlook the emotions that prospects have at the time of decisions. Finding genuine, authentic connections with your prospects during a sales meeting can connect you emotionally with your clients. Things like the affinity for the same sports team or hobbies, etc. This can also happen over the phone.Finding connections and building rapport is like having a SUPERPOWER. A tactical power move during a sales meeting is to “Love Their Property”. An example would be, “Wow, you have a wonderful property, you must be so proud.” Being authentic is paramount. Don’t use these superpowers to be a shady contractor. Tapping into the emotions of your prospect in person is a whole lot easier than on the phone, but believe it or not, with some coaching, practice, and role-playing, you can tap into this superpower over the phone on a sales call!Understanding “How” people buy and the reasons “Why” people buy can have a massive impact! Once you understand the reasons and emotions behind the buyer’s motivation, you are literally deeper in the pocket of the decision-maker than 95% of all contractors. Look for EMOTIONAL CLUES and Keywords. Pick up on words like embarrassed, excited, special, feelings, upset, mad, desperate, desire, need, want, funeral, fun, laughing, inheritance, loss, memory, family loss, in memory of, collectibles, traveling, and many many more! Brad discusses some Critical Criteria To The Buying Decision. He says “people make decisions based on their emotions and then they use logic to justify their decision”. This is the reason some people have “Buyer’s Remorse” after they buy something expensive!Contrary to what most contractors believe, money is more often than not, not the most important element in the buying decision. Frequently, budget comes in at number three on the list of reasons why people buy. Clients want to know the contractor understands their needs and if the contractor is even capable of delivering what they want. Clients want to trust the contractor and then money will fall in line. Buying decisions don’t always fall in this order, but these are the criteria that line up more than contractors realize.Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP 9 Communicating With Your Clients1. Ask –Focus on using Calibrated Questions. Questions that begin with, How, and What.How long have you been thinking about tackling this project? How can I help you? What are the most important things you want me to know about this project? When you ask a series of well-designed calibrated questions you get your clients to actually put themselves in your shoes and see things from your perspective so they begin to pour out the critical information you need. Asking questions that begin with Why could actually get your clients into a defensive posture. A why question in many cases can be confrontational. Brad explains why we lean away from the Why questions! Asking questions that begin with How and What offers your clients a way to really convey the meat and potatoes of what is on their mind. This line of questioning is paramount to effective communications.   2. Listen –After you ASK an important calibrated question, it is so important that you become quiet, and listen. Too many contractors get into a rhythm of running their mouths during a conversation with a client or prospect. Offer silence in your communications so your prospect can actually respond without interruption. More importantly, become laser-focused on becoming an active listener. It is common for people to “check out” when they finish talking. Don’t check out, listen. When you have a list of questions you want to cover on a call with a client, it is easy to get caught up in thinking about the next question you want to cover when you should actually be listening. This is where you need to be careful and pay close attention to the conversation. 3. Affirm –The final piece of the puzzle for effectively communicating with your clients is affirming you have heard what they are saying. Clients what to be heard. Your clients want you to listen to them. Using mirroring and labels during the conversation is a positive way to affirm you are actively listening to the client during the call. A wonderful way to offer affirmation that you listened to the client is with a recap of the conversation at the end of the call. Taking notes during a communication call is paramount to capture all the details of the call. During a recap, you can use buzzwords the client used during the call while you repeat the most important things about the call. Repeating the client’s buzzwords during the communication is a powerful way to prove to the client you actually listened.Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hammer and Grind Podcast EP 8Systematizing Your Construction BusinessBrad dives into his passion for the implementation and design of systems, especially from the technology standpoint. Brad is magnetized to the process of systematizing because of his DNA.When Running a solo contracting operation, it would seem as if the need for systems is not necessary since you do all the work yourself and have all of your efficiencies dialed in, locked and loaded. As soon as you add an apprentice to your workforce everything changes. What you maybe didn’t realize is the fact that you actually have a system for where you keep your screwdrivers! Now you have to share your system with employees from where you keep your screwdrivers with your apprentices all the way to how you sell projects as you train your sales team when you decide to scale your business. The Systems Theory was thrust onto the scene in the 1940’s where Systematizing Businesses and creating the ultimate efficiencies to run your business, especially in manufacturing, became an American obsession. Considering the internet, smart phones, and apps are still incredibly young in the overall scheme of things, the use of technology to streamline and systematize our contracting businesses is still in its infancy and is exciting as the new possibilities are anything you can imagine.The one thing Brad and Eric agree on 100% when it comes to Systematizing Your Contracting Business is SALES. They have systematized their sales process and management of discovery calls with The Profit Sales System. Listen closely as they share their proven sales system that has given each of them the freedoms and profits to explore other areas of passion in their lives. Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Transitioning from Craftsman to BusinessmanWhy would you want to transition from a Craftsman to Businessman?The true beginning of this transition is when the Craftsman is working for someone and the moment strikes you that you can do better on your own. You feel underappreciated at work, the boss is a jackass, and your, “I can do better”, turns to side jobs on the weekends, and after work until you take a leap of faith to go into business for yourself. That is the beginning of the transition.Discussion speaks of the Natural Born Entrepreneur vs. the craftsman that actually decides to turn businessman.While Eric is the Classic, Craftsman to Businessman story, you can imagine, Brad is the polar opposite jumping into Business and becoming a Craftsman on his journey. The back and forth becomes interesting as their perspectives collide. The transition can be incredibly difficult going from craftsman to businessman as you can find yourself caught in the trap of working harder, hiring more people, and actually making less money, having less time with more risk. Eric and Brad agree that the one thing they would change if they could go back in time is Hiring a Coach or Mentor to help in the transition. Egos and ignorance typically get in the way. The debate hits as The Solo Craftsman operation is not truly a business if you can’t walk away from the business and sell it. One man shows have only created a job for themselves.Book Recommendation is The E-Myth Revisited, by Michael E. Gerber. When you begin to really think like a businessman as you decide to scale your business the need for systems and SOP’s (standard operating procedures) become paramount. When working with your team you need to transition from a Task Machine Delegator to Delegating Outcomes. We Deep Dive into this! Without a team, running a solo operation, you become vulnerable to losing everything if you take on a serious injury or need to take extended time away from your craft or business for an extended period of time. Discussion of how Hiring “A” Players is paramount vs. how hiring B Players will hold you back from ultimately growing. The dream becomes the business that runs itself and allows you to flow between Businessman and Craftsman as you desire, when you desire and where you desire.HOMEWORK – What did you take away from this podcast? We want to hear your feedback on this topic! Hit us up on Instagram and Facebook to carry on this discussion! Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is Perfection Your Blessing or Curse?The podcast discussion begins with the reveal of Hammer and Grind’s private contractor, business community, called The Profit Club. While Eric believes striving for perfection is a Blessing and a Curse, Brad plays the Devil’s Advocate and says the need to achieve perfectionism is a curse, but striving for perfection is a good thing. Eric and Brad agree, what is perfect for one person is not always perfect for another. The podcast jumps to Comparing top end Chefs, like Gordon Ramsey and Bobby Flay in their pursuit of perfection in a meal, to how contractors deliver their products and services to clients. Storytime with Triplett tells of a time when Eric got his feelings hurt after he built what he felt was the perfect waterfall for a client. Eric explains his client hated what he believed was a perfect waterfall and how he turned the problem into an opportunity. Since perfection is in the eye of the beholder, as a contractor, it is important to have a clear understanding of your clients expectations.  GETMO – Good Enough To Move OnBrad talks about GETMO and how he leans into the philosophy in areas of his business and life because he admits he is a “Recovering Perfectionist.”Hindsight is 20/20 and Making Adjustments to Reach PerfectionThe discussion goes to the topic of software companies releasing their products and services knowing they could and should make improvements, but they release anyway and make adjustments in their products and services with the feedback given to them from their customers. HOMEWORK – Evaluate a couple areas in your life when you could have gone harder towards perfection and when you went too far! In Business Development, Jobsite Experiences and possibly in a Relationship with family or friends. Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does The Perfect Contractor Business Group Exist?Hammer and Grind describe all the different groups they belong to currently as well as the ones they have participated in over the years. True stories unravel about the ins and outs, personal experiences, and even a lawsuit scare because of a disagreement in a group.Important Note - Brad and Eric started their Bromance when they met in a contractor group on Facebook.Eric describes how he wrote down all the pros and cons of a product he used in his contracting business to create and patent a new innovation in the pond construction industry. After discussing the pros and cons of all the different groups they have participated in, Brad and Eric narrow it down to three core principles they believe the Perfect Contractor Business Community needs as a foundation.  A Place to gather with Fellow Contractors, each on a “Journey to Self-Mastery” in both business & life.In this Community, you will find Inspiration, Ideas, Accountability, Friendships, People that will Challenge you. A place you can HAMMER out and bounce ideas off like-minded people in the GRIND. A Place to learn, study & PRACTICE - How to Market to, Sell and Ultimately Communicate with your prospects creating the greatest possible experience for both you and your clients. Hammer and Grind reveal their dedication and commitment to building and maintaining the Perfect Contractor Business Community. Hammer & Grind Profit Club – Link for more informationwww.hammerandgrind.com/theprofitclubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are You Built For The Grind?Eric Says, “He is BUILT for the Grind and Brad is BUILT for the Hammer.”What exactly is the Grind?At the basics it about doing the things you don’t exactly want to do, day in and day out and pushing your limitations to tick the needle forward in achieving your goals.Is the Grind teachable? It’s a debate as Brad believes not everyone is inherently built for the grind, while Eric believes that everyone is capable of the Grind but they have to tap into it.A person can be surrounded by teachers but until the student is ready to learn, nothing happens. It’s all relative to the desire or need to learn.When the student wants it bad enough, the teacher will appear.If you are in love with your trade and your business, finding your Grind and facing adversity is easier to handle.The Grind comes down to determination, grit and discipline, essentially doing the things that others can’t do or won’t do, day in and day out.Having a natural competitive spirit in sports and other aspects of your life can be a sign at an early age that you are indeed built for the grind.Brad describes the ultimate test of self-mastery is when you are competing with yourself to be a better version of yourself as he speaks about competitive shooting and training to be faster and more accurate by a hundredth of a second.Believe it or not, Eric goes speechless as Brad describes – “Winning is the easy part, no one likes to lose, however, loosing is when you have the greatest opportunity to learn the most.”When you Grind all day and still lose, that’s when you have the opportunity to build character.Whenever you’re at your lowest point, something has to give, something has to break, and that’s when you grow.You figure out a way to get better, get training, join a contractor community, or hire a coach to help you, find a breakthrough. If you’ve always won and you never faced adversity, you would never get better. Embrace Adversity. The obstacle is the way.A book Brad highly recommends on the topic of The Grind is called “Grit” by Angela Duckworth. Hammer & Grind Profit ClubFacebook – HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @hammerandgrindpodcastTik Tok - HammerandgrindpodcastInstagram - @teamhandy - Brad HuebnerInstagram - @theponddigger – Eric TriplettWebsite – www.hammerandgrind.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.