I just left my boss after 5 years because I didn’t like some of the things going on. For one thing I was always being told, ” dont let the client see that” or JUst dont talk about it and maybe it wont come up” . Or ” try to convince them that this is the normal way it is done” I was always the punch out guy as well so I got to hear the client “unload ” on how this or that isn’t right. Then I got bitcvhed at for talking too much to the client.
Now I am on my own and at first I was loaded down with work$1300.00 a week I was making, just on small jobs here and there. I was top dog at my old company.Now I am wondering where the hell all the calls went. Is this normal. Is it always like this. I know I am pretty good. I may not be able to physically do each job but I know how to get it done. I passed out 250 flyers today and yesterday “mass faxed” flyers, ( I did get one hit for a possible $ 750 on that but her dryer went out and now she cant afford it waa waa waa). Any tips from anyone. I am brushing up on my spanish so when I go to day-labor they will pick me first.
Replies
Hi, Buddy-
Don't get discouraged. My philosophy has been that there's a lot of work out there in the universe- that has kept me going even when things were slim. IMO cold calls and flyers do not get much in the way of results. Think about all the subs and contractors you know, your material suppliers, people you have done work for, friends and neighbors, ANYBODY that you have ANY reason to know or be connected with. Make up a list of all you can come up with. Then start calling, or even better make face to face contact, and tell them what you're up to. These types of contacts will likely bear fruit because you already have connected with them IN SOME WAY.
Good luck, be open and flexible about things, and I truly beleive the universe will have something(s) for you!
Ken Hill
hey wood- first of all try to go to bed, HA-HA. introduce your self to some architect's, put your orvis-l.l .bean outfit on. confidence is important, with pictures. i usually do a walk-in ask if i can make an appointment, or if at all possible maybe if he has 10 minutes to spare etc,..... explain your your intentions,your qualifications, and what you'd like to achieve. there is an unfortunate hierarchy between architect's and tradespeople and sometimes is a difficult task to overcome. but dont get discouraged ,there are understanding ones out there, and usually the younger and less established ones are the more willing to give it a chance. years a-go i went to all the bigger exterminating outfits and asked for any leads, and just to talk with them usually in the beginning or the end of there day. midday is bad time for everyone because of the cresendo of the day. i got decent work for a couple of months with that exterminating idea. and it gets you in the door with the customers, and they spread the word if you do them a solid. do the same thing with contracting outfit, face to face is always a more powerful presentation than phone calls , flyers andall those useless advertising ploys. then gas up the truck pick up a big cup of joe, and drive around and talk to people. the better neighborhoods(more money) are the best places and SELL YOURSELF a cool, calm, confident , well-groomed,well mannerd, organized, persona will make the impression there be looking for. this driving can be fun, talk to people. talk to the foremans, and preferablly the G.C's. and if you see a roof in your travels that may be need some attention drop off a flyer, with the wording that will have them take notice of there dilemma. and that you noticed, and you'd like to help them out. after a while you will figure out more"creative" ways to maybe to ply your craft in the begginning of starting out on your own, is tough the first 1-2 yrs. can be a little tense, but persistence, ambition, and most importantly unparelled quality will get you where you want to be. ihope i wasn't condesending, and i wish you the best. and stay out of my neighborhood. HA-HA cheers the bear
Edited 5/9/2002 5:49:48 AM ET by the bear