• Managing Your Team Well: Effective One-on-One Meetings
    Sep 5 2024

    In this episode of the Remodelers On The Rise show, host Kyle Hunt delves into the powerful art of team management through impactful one-on-one meetings. Drawing from his years of experience, Kyle shares practical strategies to help remodeling professionals stay connected with their teams and keep them laser-focused on their core business goals. With a focus on fostering open communication and creating a supportive environment, Kyle outlines a structured format for these meetings, encouraging supervisors and employees to come prepared and engage in meaningful discussions. By sharing real-world examples and anecdotes, Kyle offers invaluable insights to empower remodelers and supervisors in leading more productive and engaged teams. Tune in to this episode and revolutionize your approach to team management for lasting success.

    Takeaways

    • Managing your team well is crucial for the success of your remodeling business.
    • One-on-one meetings with team members are an effective tool for improving communication, motivation, and support.
    • Regularly scheduling and preparing for one-on-one meetings helps you stay connected with your team and focused on their goals and results.
    • Having a clear agenda and asking thoughtful questions during one-on-one meetings can lead to meaningful conversations and better understanding of your team members' needs and challenges.
    • Utilizing one-on-one meetings demonstrates that you care about your team members' happiness and growth, and helps you lead your team more effectively.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Goal of the Podcast
    02:20 The Importance of Managing Your Team Well
    06:08 The Power of One-on-One Meetings
    09:51 Creating a Successful Structure for One-on-One Meetings
    11:18 Improving Communication and Support Through One-on-One Meetings
    12:46 Conclusion and Encouragement

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    14 mins
  • The Value of Continuous Improvement
    Aug 29 2024

    In this episode of Remodelers On The Rise, host Kyle engages in a conversation with Heather and Michael Francis, the dedicated husband-wife duo behind Francis Renovations. Together, they candidly recount the joys and hurdles of collaborating as partners in the remodeling industry, underscoring the essential role of transparent communication and well-defined boundaries in their journey. The couple unpacks the strategic shift to a design-build methodology, shedding light on the advantages it brought in terms of enhanced cost management and project scheduling precision.

    Heather and Michael also stress the critical importance of mastering their financial metrics and implementing precise pricing strategies for sustainable business growth. Furthermore, they explore the strategic decision to rebrand to Francis Renovations and the strategic vision of venturing into custom home construction and exterior projects, showcasing the couple's steadfast dedication to innovation and evolution in the remodeling landscape! Don't miss this insightful discussion that beckons listeners to contemplate their client interactions and operational tactics for elevated success in the industry.

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    Visit RemodelerRetreat.com and sign-up to join Kyle and his wife Sarah for the Remodel Your Marriage, Life, and Business Retreat, October 2nd-4th, 2024

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    Takeaways

    • Working together as a husband and wife team in the remodeling business has its challenges, but it also allows for shared goals and a deeper understanding of each other's roles and responsibilities.
    • Clear communication and establishing boundaries are crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance when working together.
    • Adopting a design-build approach can lead to better cost control, scheduling, and overall client satisfaction.
    • Detailed scope of work and upfront selections help ensure a smoother project execution and minimize surprises or changes during construction.
    • Understanding the financial aspects of the business, including numbers and pricing, is essential for long-term success. Knowing your numbers and accurately pricing projects is crucial for financial success in the remodeling industry.
    • Having a selections coordinator and trade partners can streamline the design and project development process.
    • Changing the business name to reflect future expansion plans can attract a specific target market.
    • Remaining calm during slow periods and maintaining a constant improvement mindset is important for long-term success.
    • Reflecting on client interactions and making adjustments to meet their needs can improve customer satisfaction.

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    38 mins
  • The Benefits of Cost-Plus Pricing
    Aug 22 2024

    Tune in as Kyle Hunt, host of Remodelers On The Rise, interviews Steve Tankersley, the owner of Tankersley Construction on his journey into the remodeling industry. After working in commercial construction, he decided to start his own remodeling business in 2018. Steve emphasizes the importance of the fundamentals in running a successful business, such as responsiveness and reliability. He also values the freedom and flexibility that owning a business provides, allowing him to spend more time with his family. Steve discusses his transition from fixed-price contracts to cost-plus contracts, which offer more transparency and build trust with clients. He provides insights into his cost-plus approach, including setting goals for net profit, accurately estimating project costs, and itemizing direct costs.

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    Visit RemodelerRetreat.com and sign-up to join Kyle and his wife Sarah for the Remodel Your Marriage, Life, and Business Retreat, October 2nd-4th, 2024

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    Takeaways

    • The fundamentals of responsiveness and reliability are crucial in running a successful remodeling business.
    • Owning a business provides the freedom and flexibility to spend more time with family.
    • Transitioning from fixed-price contracts to cost-plus contracts can build trust and provide transparency with clients.
    • Setting goals for net profit and accurately estimating project costs are essential in a cost-plus approach.
    • Itemizing direct costs, such as insurance and software, can help reduce the markup in cost-plus contracts. The cost-plus pricing model allows for open and frequent communication with clients without the fear of racking up hourly bills.
    • Delivering value to clients is crucial when using the cost-plus pricing model.
    • Knowing your numbers and having a robust accounting and project management system is essential for success.
    • Self-performed labor rates can contribute to higher margins in cost-plus projects.
    • Using contingencies can help manage unexpected costs and build trust with clients.
    • Cloud-based software and coaching can be valuable tools for remodeling contractors.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 - Introduction and Background
    • 01:45 - Approaching Pricing in the Remodeling Business
    • 04:10 - Transitioning to Residential Construction
    • 08:50 - Achieving Dreams and Balancing Family Life
    • 10:46 - Recognizing Success and Reflecting on the Journey
    • 12:58 - Unpacking the Cost-Plus Approach
    • 16:28 - Setting Goals and Estimating Project Costs
    • 19:42 - Reducing Markup in Cost-Plus Contracts
    • 22:09 - The Benefits of Cost-Plus Pricing
    • 23:35 - Delivering Value and Accountability
    • 26:06 - Knowing Your Numbers and Having a Robust System
    • 27:06 - Maximizing Margins with Self-Performed Labor
    • 31:41 - Managing Unexpected Costs with Contingencies
    • 39:28 - The Value of Cloud-Based Software and Coaching
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    48 mins
  • Using KPIs to Make Informed Decisions and Drive Business Improvement
    Aug 16 2024

    Join Kyle for a conversation with AJ Ballantine, founder and CEO of Cornerstone Remodeling and Rendr about the importance of KPIs and OKRs in running a successful remodeling business. In this episode, AJ shares his invaluable insights on the role of a manager and coach when scaling a team and reveals practical tips on tracking KPIs to inform business decisions and identify areas for improvement. He highlights the significance of implementing the OKR framework to track progress and set measurable objectives aligned with business goals. Also, Kyle and AJ uncover the benefits of using Render, a software tool designed for remote sales and design that enhances workflow efficiency. Listen in and discover the key takeaway pointers of effective management and leveraging business tools to succeed in the remodeling industry!

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    Visit RemodelerRetreat.com and sign-up to join Kyle and his wife Sarah for the Remodel Your Marriage, Life, and Business Retreat, October 2nd-4th, 2024

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    Takeaways

    • Embrace the role of a manager and coach when growing a remodeling business and managing a team.
    • Start tracking KPIs by identifying the most important metrics for your business and measuring them consistently.
    • KPIs help you make informed decisions and identify areas for improvement in your business.
    • Implement the OKR framework to set objectives and track measurable results that align with your business goals.
    • Regularly review and adjust your KPIs and OKRs to ensure they are relevant and effective.
    • Setting objectives and key results (OKRs) can help measure progress and hold teams accountable in a remodeling business.
    • Objectives can be related to various areas of the business, such as decreasing slippage or improving job satisfaction.
    • Key results are specific actions or metrics that contribute to achieving the objectives.
    • Render is a software tool that enables remote sales and design in the remodeling industry, reducing cycle time and increasing efficiency.

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction and Background
    • 03:44 The Importance of Embracing the Role of a Manager
    • 09:33 Getting Started with KPIs
    • 13:16 Using KPIs to Make Informed Decisions
    • 21:57 The Benefits of Regularly Reviewing and Adjusting KPIs and OKRs
    • 22:02 Setting Objectives and Key Results
    • 30:48 Measuring Progress and Accountability
    • 36:09 Introducing Render: A Software Tool for Remote Sales and Design
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    47 mins
  • 5 Free Financial Resources for Your Remodeling Business
    Aug 2 2024

    In this insightful episode of Remodelers On The Rise, Kyle dives into the financial metrics for every remodeling business owner needs to understand. Kyle unveils five transformative resources tailored to enhance your financial management skills (that you can download for FREE here).

    From creating effective budgets to understanding the nuances of markup vs. margin, this episode equips you with the tools to secure and improve your business’s financial health. Tune in to learn how you can access these essential resources for free and begin steering your business towards greater profitability and sustainability. Don't miss out on these practical, actionable financial strategies!

    Download the 5 Financial Resources for Remodelers here!

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    22 mins
  • Marriage, Life, and a Remodeling Business: Working Well with Your Spouse
    Jul 29 2024

    Join host Kyle Hunt on Remodelers on the Rise as he interviews Sean and Kimberly Canada as they candidly share their journey of working together in the remodeling industry together for over a decade. Gain valuable insights on navigating the complexities of blending marriage and business, and discover the keys to successful collaboration with your spouse in the remodeling world.

    From fostering clear communication to balancing work and home life, this episode offers genuine advice for building a thriving business while cherishing a loving partnership. Tune in to unlock the secrets of harmoniously blending marriage, life, and the world of remodeling.

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    Visit RemodelerRetreat.com and sign-up to join Kyle and his wife Sarah for the Remodel Your Marriage, Life, and Business Retreat, October 2nd-4th, 2024

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    Takeaways

    • Design build can streamline projects and improve profitability by planning and addressing issues upfront.
    • Working with a spouse requires open communication, setting boundaries, and understanding each other's working styles.
    • Understanding financials is crucial for setting appropriate pricing and making informed business decisions.
    • Soft skills and hidden hours can impact profitability, so it's important to track and analyze all aspects of the business. Budgeting, job costing, and estimating are essential for the growth of a remodeling business.
    • Paying attention to competition is important, but pricing decisions should be based on profitability and business goals.
    • Rebranding can have a significant impact on lead quality and client perception.
    • Coaching and networking within the remodeling community can provide valuable support and guidance.
    • Investing in skilled labor and planning for economic downturns are crucial for long-term success.

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    38 mins
  • The Power of Consistency in Staying in Touch with Previous Clients
    Jul 16 2024

    Join Kyle Hunt as he discusses the importance of keeping in touch with your previous clients. Kyle emphasizes how important it is to maintain a good relationship with your previous clients, who can be your most valuable marketing asset. Kyle shares his insights on how sending monthly emails to clients exhibiting your latest projects as well as offering remodeling tips and insights on current trends, can be a powerful way to stay in touch. He also highlights the many benefits of staying social on social media and engaging with clients and prospects.

    And if all this is starting to sound like a lot of work, Kyle introduces us to Remodelers Autopilot - a program that serves up a done-for-you email newsletter and social media post service, freeing up valuable time for your other business activities.

    Consistency is key when it comes to communicating with clients! This episode of Remodelers On The Rise will give you ideas and hopefully light a fire to help you keep this valuable marketing priority top of mind.

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    Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 1,900 remodelers. Visit RemodelersOnTheRise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights!

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    Takeaways

    • Staying in touch with previous clients is a valuable marketing tactic for remodelers.
    • Consistent communication with previous clients helps maintain top-of-mind awareness and encourages repeat business and referrals.
    • Sending monthly emails showcasing projects and providing remodeling tips and trends is an effective way to stay in touch.
    • Being active on social media and engaging with previous clients and prospects can also help maintain relationships and generate leads.
    • Remodelers Autopilot is a program that offers a done-for-you email newsletter and social media post service, providing a convenient and effective way to stay in touch with previous clients.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Introduction
    02:25 - Using Monthly Emails to Showcase Projects and Provide Remodeling Tips
    05:23 - Being Active on Social Media to Maintain Relationships and Generate Leads
    08:17 - Introducing Remodelers Autopilot: A Done-for-You Marketing Solution
    11:35 - The Power of Consistency in Staying in Touch with Previous Clients
    12:33 - Conclusion

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    13 mins
  • Creating a Clear Progression and Training Program for Your Team
    Jul 3 2024
    In this episode, Jenna Robbins and Patrick Zengel from the Zengel Group delve into the critical role of training programs in the remodeling and construction industry. They address the challenges of sourcing skilled carpenters and emphasize the importance of a structured progression and training program for team members. The Zengel Group has crafted an innovative training approach that merges online learning with hands-on assessments. The program features quizzes, skills tests, and field competencies, with raises linked to training milestones, fostering consistency through self-motivation and paid training hours. Patrick and Jenna showcase success stories of apprentices who have honed their skills and gained confidence in their work. They emphasize the significance of taking the first steps with training This episode offers valuable insights into the impact of training programs on team dynamics and business outcomes. ----- Check out TradeSkillsU here! Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 1,900 remodelers. Visit RemodelersOnTheRise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Training is crucial in the remodeling industry to address the shortage of skilled carpenters.A clear progression and training program can help team members grow in their roles.Combining online learning with hands-on assessments is an effective approach to training.Utilizing existing resources and customizing them to fit specific needs can save time and effort.Tying raises to training milestones can motivate team members to actively participate in the program.Consistency in training can be achieved through self-motivation and paid training hours.Training is crucial in the construction industry and can have a significant impact on the team and the business.Using resources like Trade Skills U and the 10-hour OSHA class can enhance training programs.Weekly team meetings that include training and safety sessions are effective in promoting continuous learning.Rotating team members to present on construction-related topics encourages knowledge sharing and engagement.Training helps apprentices improve their skills and become more confident in their work.Starting somewhere, even with a small training program, is essential for team development. ----- Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background of the Zangel Group 01:10 - The Importance of Training in the Remodeling Industry 08:00 - Creating a Training Program with Trade Skills U University 10:16 - Addressing the Lack of Interest in Training 13:52 - Tying Raises to Training Milestones 16:32 - Ensuring Consistency in Training 20:26 - Effective Training Methods and Resources 21:14 - Weekly Team Meetings for Continuous Learning 22:39 - Success Stories: Apprentices' Skills Improvement 23:07 - Starting Somewhere: The Key to Team Development
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    36 mins