FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why don't you suggest or recommend office computer software?

A. When you fully understand how your office should operate you will be able to select the office software that best fits your company. Believe it or not, there are many contractors who operate very efficiently using ledger sheets filled in by hand.

Q. Shouldn't I have an accountant or CPA doing my books?

A. In my experience you are better off to do your own record keeping. When you are doing the books yourself you have the advantage of seeing the money go in and out. Get help in setting up your books and with taxes. Make sure that you know how to create and read your own financial statements.

Q. How can someone hundreds of miles away help me with my office?

A. With modern technology I can "look" at your office operation and see clearly what you are doing and how to help. At the Academy we specialize in the contractor's office. Therefore you can use me as a business partner or office administrator to advise you and perform selected duties that you want done.

Q. What's the best way to run my contracting office?

A. There are three models set out in my book Construction Management Excellence. They show you how to organize your office and develop a plan of operation. The models are useful whether you are a one-person business or have many employees. All of my virtual business partner help is based on these models.

Q. I hate doing paperwork. Can you help me get it taken care of?

A. I can do much of your routine paperwork. However, it would be my goal to help you set up routines that got you involved in your paperwork in ways that you do not find frustrating. If I were successful, you would find yourself doing some of your paperwork without difficulty. This is important so you have a good sense of the financial aspects of your business.

Q. What is the best area of contracting to get into?

A. The business area! I find that the most successful contractor is the one who knows at least the basics of a construction contracting business operation. The most successful contractors start with good business skills. They know from the start that business practices are more important than trade skill. Customers will be more satisfied with a project where the trade work is average but the experience was above average from their perspective, than a project that was a pain for them to live through but where the trade work was done very well. It's how they feel about how they were treated that is most important when the recall the results of the project.

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