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Free Consulting

I just saw a quick article talking about a really, really simple way to get free high-end consulting services for your contracting business.

Steven Driscoll of Menold Construction & Restoration simply has the project manager meet with the customer 2-3 weeks after the installation is complete and just listen to what the customer has to say.

They then go back to the office, type up some notes and send them around.

That simple process provides way better information than any survey or outside consultant. When it comes to solving problems and making contractors better 50% of the problem is just identifying the problem, the other 50% is simply rolling up your sleeves and getting to work with a solution.

I can not stand it when a contractor calls us and wants us to do a survey to figure out "what is wrong." If you want an outside consultant to do a survey and print up a report that is procrastination at its best. Save your money because the report will just sit on your desk and gather dust (very expensive dust).

Do what Steven has done and just get out there to talk to your customers one-on-one. Those candid conversations will tell you everything that you need.

If you think you want an outside consultant use them for providing a potentially fresh eye, possibly helping identify the root cause of a problem and possibly use them to help solve a known problem but never, never hire a consultant to do a "survey" of your customers.

Posted by David on February 4, 2007 08:36 AM|Permalink

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