Successful contractor businesses require a high level of organization and management. Like many trades, the hands-on nature of a contractor business makes modernizing with the latest technology seem unnecessary. Often contractors continue to rely on outdated methods to conduct business for years and miss out on the opportunity to maximize their profits. It's wise to keep in mind that while new technology may be intimidating, the right software may be just the tool your organization needs to push it to the next level.
]]>What is the Contractor Business Suite?
Managing a business entails keeping track of multiple moving parts. In the end, people want nothing more than a simple solution to keep track of their organization. New technology is on the market constantly, so finding what you are looking for to help you get the job done can seem overwhelming. Upstryve's all-new Contractor Business Suite is unique because it puts everything you need in one place to create an all-around virtual assistant. Everything you need in one place on one platform.
What's included?
Launchpad
The Launchpad is the first thing you will see when you sign on to the contractor business suite. Here you will be given a link to download the mobile app, where you can manage your business and engage with your leads on the go. You can then quickly move down the checklist, connect your Google My Business account, social media, and payment processor, and add employees and team members.
Dashboard
Your dashboard is there to help you gain a deeper understanding of your business. You can estimate the potential value of your sales pipeline through the information found under opportunities, pipeline value, and conversion rate. Use this information to set goals for you and your team and maximize your earnings.
Conversation
Under this tab, you will see all the conversations your company has had with anyone over text, call (phone recordings are available), social media, or on your website. Track your sales team, keep conversations on record in case of a dispute, and improve customer service by reviewing customer interactions. Additionally, if you require a business phone number, it may be provided to you through the software.
Calendars
A calendar may seem very straightforward. However, your ability to customize and create calendars to fit specific needs makes the Contractor Business Suite calendar especially useful. Use as many calendars as you need. There is no limit on the number you can create. Through this, it's easy to make appointments, add notes, and send automated reminders for you, specific members of your team, and your clients —all under one tab.
Contacts
This tab will be your CRM or customer management tool. Anyone contacted or who contacts your business will automatically be registered in the system. Once registered, you may automatically or manually add notes, tags, and special offers to individual contacts. Take advantage of our special features like the contractor cam. This adds another level of communication by allowing you to take before and after pictures when out in the field. These images will populate your clients' contact project folder from the mobile app. This will make it easy to keep your client up to date on their project or to show a potential client your previous work. Finally, once the job is done, send a request to your clients for a five-star review. This can be done on both the contacts and the reputation tab. Once completed, the review will be posted directly to your Google My Business account and can be beneficial to your business's SEO.
Opportunities
The opportunities tab displays your sales pipeline. Segment your leads based on where they are as a potential client. As they come in, they will be listed under New Leads. Once confirmed, they will move to booking confirmed, and when the service has been fulfilled, they will be moved over to sold. Here the software will tally everything up and show you how much revenue has been made so far, as well as how much revenue you have in holding. You will notice each potential client will have value next to it. This is the estimated potential value of that lead.
Payments
Through the payments tab, easily click on the new invoice button and create a customizable invoice that connects to your payment processor on file. Send your invoice via text or email to ensure you get paid quickly. Additionally, under this tab, you may easily review your incoming orders and transactions and set up your products and tax settings.
Automation
Get back to clients immediately through automated messages through the website Chat Widget. Any website messages get sent straight to both your opportunities tab as well as your contacts tab. Customize the interactions with your clients to fit your specific needs. Get creative, create task reminders, Facebook form submissions, and automatic notifications, and customize the lead's opportunity based on their requests.
Marketing
Social media marketing can give you a massive advantage in this age of technology. However, being on many platforms and posting consistently can be a time-consuming task. Through the marketing tab, you can save time. You can link up all your social media platforms in one place and schedule your posts on all your accounts in the marketing planner.
Sites
Your website is one of the most essential tools a company has. Through this tab, easily create and customize your website to fit your business. A template will be set up and ready to go. So, make as many websites as you need. There is no limit. As a contractor with multiple sites, this can be a very effective way to save money and keep track of all your sites in one place.
Reporting
Under the reporting tab, you can quickly and easily review all your analytics and numbers in one place. Analyze your campaigns to make sure you are not overspending on marketing. This could include Google or Facebook ads. Knowing your numbers is imperative, so keep an eye out and monitor your outreach, audience, and other key statistics to maximize your spending.
Office work is a tedious part of any trade business. With the Contractor Business Suite, you can focus on your business, knowing that you have everything you need organized and ready to access on your computer. If you would like to schedule a free one-on-one demo, head to contractor.upstryve.com and click on schedule a free product tour. Each business has specific needs, and no matter your situation, we are confident that we can find a way to make this software work for you.
Despite their high demand, construction companies seem to struggle consistently with their marketing strategies. How do you get people to notice your work? How can you get new clients through the door or on the phone for a consultation? Let's look at the three networking degrees you have at your disposal.
1st-degree network
Building and remodeling require trust and assurance between a contractor and a client. Your first-degree network consists of personal connections you can contact directly to offer your services. They will be people you know, trust, and often see in your daily life. Who better to give you your first job than someone who knows you well?
2nd-degree network
Your second-degree network is made up of the people you interact with on a less personal level yet have an established line of communication—for example, an old coworker, your neighborhood delivery man, or a salon worker.
Your first and second-degree networks are most important as you get your company off the ground. Reaching out to your 1st and 2nd-degree networks will allow you to establish a presence in the industry and help you grow your business' credibility. References will be one of the most valuable tools in your marketing strategy.
3rd-degree network
Once you have a couple of successful jobs under your belt through your first- and second-degree networks, tackling your third-degree network will be much easier. This network includes people who are introduced to you by a third party or who find you through their own research.
As your business grows and your clientele expands, most of your contacts will eventually come from your third-degree network. Reaching this network will require you to use your marketing tools effectively. To do this, you must ask yourself the following questions;
Who is your target market?
As a contractor, there are many different types of projects you can take on. However, not every client is created equally. A contractor that works well with families in the suburbs will not likely have the same experience working with singles in their 20s in the city. Make sure your marketing targets the demographic that you work with best.
What is the tone of your company?
Establish the tone and personality that you want to portray. The spirit of your company should be reflected in everything. From the language you use when communicating with clients to the design of your website. By creating a consistent image and style, your business will be much better suited to attract clients with the same energy.
What are your communication strengths and weaknesses?
Excellent communication skills are critical for the success of any business. You will likely find that you are more successful in getting your message across via different forms of media and platforms. If you generate the most positive feedback through writing, consider starting a blog and getting on or creating Facebook groups. For those who do well with visual media, create an esthetic Instagram account with before and after pictures and other images of your work. If you communicate best through videos and talking with people, consider making fun, educational content through Clubhouse, TickTock, and Youtube videos.
Nowadays, there are seemingly endless opportunities to market your business. Research your options and find the combination that works best for you and your business.
Consulting services, such as the ones offered by Broven Consulting, can be an amazing resource to get your company off the ground. Visit their website here to set up an appointment and maximize the potential of your construction company.
Visit Upstryve to learn about trade careers, exam prep resources, and much more!
Broven Consulting
Owner: Mariah Bowen
Website: https//brovenconsulting.com
Managing any business is a complex endeavor. There's no better feeling than seeing interest in an organization you've worked tirelessly to develop. As you gain clients, growth opportunities begin to arise. While this stage is exciting, the stress of not knowing the next step can be overwhelming. Looking for ways to move your business forward should be the main priority. Creating the necessary procedures to keep up with changes and overcome obstacles is essential.
Construction is an arduous industry, and your business will inevitably have multiple moving parts. The pillars you build within the structure of your company will be what allows you the time and freedom to manage your organization effectively. A stable infrastructure from the start will assure you are prepared for the difficulties you face. So, where should you start?
Hire smart
If your business is doing well, you will eventually reach the point where you need to add more people to your team. But before you get into the hiring process, there are a few questions that you need to ask yourself. What skills do you and your existing team lack? What segments of your business demand the most attention? What type of company culture do you want to promote?
Hiring the most professional, experienced, and expensive person won't always be the most effective route. Before you hire someone, gain a clear understanding of what you need and what you're missing. Your team will serve as the foundation for your company. Your goal should be to recruit someone whose contribution will maximize the potential of their department and propel the company forward as a whole. On the other hand, in a situation where you feel an employee is not contributing to the team in this way, don't feel hesitant to let them go. Your employees are there to serve and support the business's goals. If they prove not to be a suitable fit, find a better candidate to fulfill their position.
Delegate when you can
Entrepreneurs are notorious multitaskers. But no matter how talented a business owner you are, you can't do it all on your own. As your company expands, you will inevitably face situations where you must take a step back from the fundamental tasks to tackle more complex hurdles. So, delegate what you can when you can. Creating a stable team you can rely on will allow you the freedom to solve problems more effectively. Your time is valuable. Use it to accomplish the upper management tasks your team cannot fulfill.
Set an example
As a company owner, you're responsible for setting the example. Use your previous experience to lay the groundwork for your employees. Ultimately your team will look to you for guidance. So, make sure to be an active role model. Work to improve your efficiency at work and create an avenue of communication and constructive feedback. In doing this, you will not only set an example, but you will also set the standard for quality and work ethic within the company.
For tips on running a business in the trades, exam prep resources, trade careers, and much more, visit Upstryve.com!
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Getting started on your journey to becoming a general contractor is always exciting. But you can't become a general contractor overnight. With a new career just around the corner, there is a lot you need to do to prepare. A minimum amount of experience is necessary to apply, and you will have to pass different exams depending on the type of license you want to acquire. All of this requires substantial preparation. The rules and regulations to get licenses will vary by state. Thankfully, if you plan to work in South Carolina, we got you covered! Books, courses, and exam costs all add up. So keep reading to learn how to get started!
Pricing
In the state of South Carolina, you can get three different types of general contractor licenses. Residential builder, limited builder, or unlimited building contractor. The license you choose should depend on your current level of experience as well as your desired scope of work. A trade and a business and law exam must be passed for all licenses. To learn more about each license, check out our blog here (link to how to get your general contractor license in south Carolina post).
Each exam costs $75 and is taken through PSI, which has locations throughout the US. Residential application fees are $100, and commercial application fees are $350. Therefore, applicants should prepare to spend $150 on exams and either $100 or $350 in application fees. To prepare, you will need to either buy or rent books, take some courses and potentially consult a tutoring service. These can get a little pricey. Thankfully Upstryve has got you covered!
Where should you get your books?
When preparing for any exam, books are a necessity. But why spend a lot of money on books that will likely only be used for a short period? Don't buy. Opt for book rentals instead! By renting your books through Upstryve, you not only get to save money but you also get access to pre-tabbed and highlighted textbooks. This is important because most trade exams are open book, meaning you can use them during the test. But if you don't prepare your materials beforehand, you'll likely get lost looking for the answer and waste valuable time. Additionally, if you write or tab your book incorrectly, the testing facility might not let you use them at all. Why take the risk? Rent through Upstryve instead!
Upstryve Packages
Residential builder package
The residential builder package costs $1,035 and includes all seven books required for your exams—one book for the business and law exam and 6 for the trade exam. Keep in mind these books are pre-tabbed and highlighted. Also included are all the online courses you will need to take. These are provided through a module system that gives you access to your phone, tablet, or computer. Here, you get hundreds of practice questions and simulated exams. Our team will walk you through each book, demonstrating what type of questions you will see and how to navigate the tabbed and highlighted areas of your books to find the answer you need. Best of all, If you return the books, you get $450 back. Overall, you pay $585 for the whole package, books, courses, practice tests, and our fantastic team for any additional support you may need.
Limited builder package
The limited builder package costs $12,055 and includes one business and law book plus nine books for the limited building trade portion. You get a total of 10 books tabbed and highlighted along with your courses, practice questions, and the support system provided in all the packages. If you return your books, you get $540 back. So, in the end, you only pay $715 for the whole deal.
Unlimited building contractor package
The Unlimited building contractor package, which requires you to take the NASCLA exam, costs $31,054. In this package, you will receive 23 books for the trade exam and one for the business and law exam. Again, all your books will be pre-tabbed and highlighted. You will have access to your courses through online modules. Included in the courses is access to the instructors and support team for any questions you might have. If you return your books, you will be given $10,080 back. Therefore, the total cost is left at $20,974! For more information on the benefits of being a NASCLA-certified unlimited building contractor, check out our blog here! (Link to other SC blog)
There is no better time to get started on your journey to becoming a general contractor than now! To learn more about trade careers, testing resources, tutoring services, and much more, visit Upstryve.com!
]]>The history of labor unions
Skilled workers have some of the world's most challenging and essential jobs. In the early days of industrialization, business owners were king. They decided who worked, how long, and how much they got paid. As you may imagine, this often led to foul conditions and inequity in many work environments. Child labor, twelve-hour work days, and meager pay were common. Eventually, employees had had enough and joined forces to negotiate for everything from improved working conditions and shorter hours to establishing the minimum wage. These organized groups are still around today and are referred to as labor or trade unions.
Modern-day labor unions, like their ancestors, are an association of workers who join forces to make decisions about wages, working conditions, and much more. Over time, they have become much more developed and strongly influence many industries. So what are the pros and cons of a union group? And how do you know what's right for you?
Labor Union Pros
Higher wages
Labor unions determine the rate of the cost of their services. They work on behalf of their members to negotiate higher salaries with employers. This representation has been shown to raise the average pay for workers in the industry. Additionally, this rise has resulted in higher wages regardless of union membership. However, union members continue to statistically have higher salaries than non-union members.
From the start of the hiring process, labor unions represent their members and help negotiate their benefits. Unions assure that their members get the most out of the deal. They set high standards regarding work conditions, hours, and safety. Therefore, healthcare, insurance, retirement, and PTO are improved for those who join a labor union.
Networking opportunities
In the trades, networking is key. As a union member, you can connect with fellow members and be a part of a tight-knit community that relies on each other for advice, referrals, and job opportunities. This could facilitate your advancement in their industry, especially if you're not so social and struggle to find networking opportunities on your own.
Working conditions can become dangerous very quickly when working in the trades. Unions put their members' safety at the front line and assure employers watch out for their workers on the job site. Suppose an employer fails to implement safety procedures on a job site or requires employees to use unsafe machinery. In that case, union workers can use the union's support to negotiate without the risk of losing their jobs.
Greater job security
Job security is at the top of the list regarding a person's career. Labor unions enforce strict policies to protect their workers from being terminated by their employers. With a union contract to back you up, a boss or manager will only be able to fire you for a just cause. Union support gives members additional protection when fighting for safer and improved work environments. However, it can also make organizations hesitant to hire you in the first place and has been a controversial factor regarding unions in recent years.
Labor Union Cons
Union dues
Union dues are subject to state and federal laws. They cover the members' benefits, salaries, events, campaigns, legal representation, and anything else the organization sees necessary. As you may imagine, they can get exceptionally high in some cases, and corruption is not unheard of. High union dues have, in some cases, been found to be allocated to increased salaries and perks for union leaders. However, this is not always the case. So make sure to do your research, and compare the union fees with the legitimacy of the resources they offer before joining.
Limited autonomy
Union members have to abide by the union's decisions. You may experience limited bargaining power and be unable to accept specific deals without consulting with your union leaders. This can become quite frustrating in some situations as a high-performing individual with connections and experience. You may find you can move up the ladder faster on your own.
Seniority hierarchy
In a union, seniority matters. A member that has been a part of the organization for twenty years will have access to more opportunities than someone who has recently joined. Consequently, giving your 100% daily, making connections, and producing the best quality results will not necessarily speed track your way to the top. If you have a strong work ethic, can negotiate skillfully on your own, and have a knack for networking, a union might not be as beneficial for you as someone who lacks those characteristics.
Distrust with employers
Unions can make it very difficult to fire and take away work from employees. These policies have historically made it very difficult to enforce high standards in the workplace in some contexts. Employers sometimes feel that they are unable to reprimand underperforming workers. This may lead to difficulties communicating and negotiating with your employers as an individual.
Overall, there are many pros and cons to joining a union. Your level of experience, work ethic, and career goals should be considered carefully before making a decision. The most important thing to remember is that there are laws and regulations in place to protect you regardless of your decision. Depending on your state, your employer may face restrictions and legal repercussions for reprimanding you for considering or joining a union. Similarly, unions are not permitted to enforce retributions for those who choose not to join or do not follow their demands.
For more information on trade careers, tutoring services, and much more, visit Upstryve.com!
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The majority of people's jobs involve sales, in one way or another. While working in the trades, this might not be as obvious. After all, you might not be going door to door or making cold calls. Yet you likely provide a service or product that requires you to put in some effort to get people to your organization. Success in this area is paramount for any business to survive. But for those with little experience, sales can be an intimidating endeavor. Developing the following four basic skills is a great way to get started.
Presence
Your presence as a salesperson is your greatest asset. The goal is to portray confidence, friendliness, and knowledgeability of your service or product. Accomplishing this requires you to become aware of everything from your voice and word choice to your body language and outfit. Think about how you typically react to people you meet daily. Someone with wrinkled clothes who slouches and fails to make eye contact is not very likely to get you to buy their product. Keep your posture in check and make sure you look professional and put together. Even if you don't see your customers face to face and conduct sales over the phone, remember that your body language is reflected in your voice. Regardless of where you are, making these changes will make a huge difference.
Build a connection
When selling a product, you may be tempted to tell your customer everything you know to convince them to buy. However, this approach is often much too overwhelming. People don't want someone to tell them what they want or need with no context. Failing to listen to the customer will be your biggest mistake. You want to build a connection with your clients. You will be much better equipped to close the sale if you understand their needs. So keep your talking points short and sweet, and keep your ears open and attentive. The best sales associates will make their customers feel they are having a casual conversation, not listening to a sales pitch.
Attitude
Maintaining a positive attitude should be a priority no matter what you're doing. In a sales environment, receiving negative feedback is a big part of the gig. However, as frustrating as it is, you are not in a position to lose your head. You won't get to close many of the sales you pitch. But if your attitude deteriorates, you risk more than losing out on a commission. Remember that you represent much more than just yourself when on the job. Learn what triggers you most and how to combat these feelings before they get out of hand. Developing strategies to calm yourself down is an essential tool.
Create a system
Finally, create a system to use as a part of your sales technique. Going into each sale with a set approach will allow you to develop your skills fully. Take your personality traits into account. A method that works for one person will not always work for the next. Use your strengths to your advantage. By developing a routine for gathering and pursuing leads, you will be much more aware of what does and does not work.
For more business tips, information on trade careers, exam prep guides, and more, visit Upstryve.com for more details!
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Keep your mindset on track
Nowadays, we have distractions at every turn. There is a screen in our faces at nearly all times of the day. Endless possibilities regarding information and entertainment follow. Keeping a clear head and a focused mindset can be a bit of a challenge. It's hard not to be tempted to scroll through Instagram or Twitter looking at memes or binge-watch your favorite TV show on Netflix. Who can blame you? Most of us have indulged at one point or another. However, as a business owner, the time you can afford to spend this way must be limited. Keeping your mindset on track will require you to prioritize your time effectively. Your goals should stay at the forefront of your actions.
Don't get me wrong, taking some time to breathe is essential to being efficient and effective when you work. However, overindulgence can make it difficult to think clearly when it is most pertinent. Keep yourself organized, create a schedule, and place your company goals at the top of the hierarchy regarding your time and energy. Applying this strategy, especially in the beginning days of your company, will make a huge difference.
Understand the company's tasks and needs
Knowing how to use your resources well and efficiently is a valuable skill. In a new corporation, resources are likely not as abundant as you would like. Understanding everything that needs to be done to ensure the success and growth of your company is paramount. Make sure to write out your company's tasks that you and your team need to accomplish. This could include everything from daily duties, client meetings, and materials inventory to customer outreach initiatives and client commissions. This information will allow you to determine the materials and skills you need to look for when forming a team. Consequently, this will facilitate the strategic application of your resources.
Hire strategically
Hiring employees can be a tricky task. Depending on your company's size and services, you will need people with different expertise. As a new company being incredibly thoughtful about who you hire is essential. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. To start things off, you must create and keep track of a hiring and onboarding strategy.
Determine the type of company culture you want. Assuring your employees can work as a team is essential regardless of your industry. Your company culture will determine the kind of people you should hire to make this a reality. Maximize your efforts during the hiring process, including a survey and an interview. You want to offer opportunities for the prospective hire to demonstrate the type of employer and the work environment they seek. Part of your focus points should be to reveal their attitudes regarding teamwork, teachability, and work ethic. In the context of a skilled worker, this can be particularly important.
As a young company, you don't want to hire someone who simply shows up for the paycheck. People who care about the quality of their work and want to deliver the best results possible are priceless. If possible, include a trial task to emphasize the importance of quality results further. Filter out those who are not willing to put in the work. In the end, you will save valuable time and money.
Create incentives for growth and development
Your onboarding and overall company dynamic should demonstrate incentives for growth and development. Everyone needs a place for a business to run smoothly and efficiently. The last thing you want is to spend time making sure everyone else is doing their job right. Creating opportunities for your employees to learn and improve their skills will help avoid constantly having to micromanage your staff. Providing a ladder for your workers to rise in the company will ensure and maximize your company's growth. In practicing and perfecting their skills, they will demonstrate their ability to produce the best results possible each time.
At the end of the day, starting anything from scratch can be a tricky endeavor. However, obstacles should never impede or discourage you from getting started. For more tips and tricks regarding trade careers or starting your business, visit our blog at UpStryve.com
]]>Nowadays, many people strive to be a part of a job they find exciting, motivating, and fulfilling. General contractors fulfill this job description pretty well as the individuals tasked with overseeing the development of building projects. After all, what’s better than seeing a blueprint come to life? But what exactly does it take to get a general contractor license?
As the person who monitors the ins and outs of a construction project, general contractors have to have a well-rounded understanding of everything from plumbing, HVAC, and building code to scheduling and administration. Due to a GC’s diverse set of responsibilities, there are different tiers and types of licenses you can obtain. Keep in mind that your options will vary by state.
Types of GC licenses
Depending on your career goals and experience, a different license will be best for you. For example, there are three different tiers for a GC license in Georgia. Residential Basic, Residential Light Commercial and Unlimited GC.
As a general rule of thumb, you want to get the most comprehensive license you currently qualify for. Acquiring a license can take a significant amount of time, energy, and money. The last thing you want is to repeat the whole process multiple times. Getting a license that is appropriate for your level of experience and allows you to work in all the areas of the industry you desire is the most appropriate path you can take. Keeping your long-term career goals and time constraints in mind is also essential. An Unlimited GC license will likely prove to be unnecessary for someone with residential experience who would like to remain in that area of work. Research your options carefully, and consult a licensing expert to assure you make the right decision for your career.
Exam pricing
General contractor license exam fees will vary by state. Overall, the state typically requires an application fee and exam fees that will need to be covered. For example, in Georgia, as of June 2022, there is a $200 state application fee along with a standard $72 cost for each exam. Each of the three types of GC licenses in Georgia requires two examinations, a business and law exam and a trade exam. Therefore, a current Georgia resident will have to commit to paying at least $344 for their license. These numbers are subject to change and will likely shift with time, so always check your local government website for updated pricing.
Exam preparation
Trade license exams are typically open books. This can be a significant advantage if you prepare carefully. While you may and are recommended to bring your books to the exam, you must follow the testing rules exactly. For example, the books you use during the exam can be tabbed and highlighted. However, this must be done following the requirements specified in the exam guide rules. The tabs used must be permanently fixed tabs. Additionally, you may highlight and underline in your book, but you cannot write anything on its pages. Writing may be seen as cheating and could result in you being disqualified from receiving your license.
This may seem like a lot of information. Thankfully, there are organizations that specialize in trade careers that are here to help. Upstryve, for example, provides many services to help you on your path to becoming a licensed tradesperson. At Upstryve, we offer everything from book rentals to consultations with industry professionals. So when prepping for your exam, consider purchasing or renting books that have been pre-tabbed and highlighted. Or consider talking to one of our licensing experts to help you get on the right path to success. Whatever the case may be, Upstryve is here to provide you with the most relevant effective resources out there. Visit Upstryve.com or contact one of our amazing licensing experts below!
JD Myers: Upstryve Licensing expert
Email: JD.Myers@Upstryve.com
Phone: 321.610.2133
]]>High school students are increasingly looking for alternatives to a four-year college degree. Don't get me wrong; a traditional route is not a terrible option. However, students want more than one avenue to success. A noticeable gap has become apparent with the increasing demand to improve US infrastructure. As necessary, in-demand, and lucrative as trade careers are, they have not been pursued in recent years with the same frequency as in the past.
The right initiatives are needed to demonstrate the tremendous potential of trade careers. Guidance on getting started is always helpful. Yet, it can be more challenging to come by unless you already have a friend or family member in the field. Suppose you want to pursue a trade and are unsure how. There is no need to stress. Try following these three basic tips to help you get started.
#1 Do your research
When pursuing any new career, it's critical to keep yourself well informed. Don't just jump into the first thing you find. Make sure to take the time to read over the requirements, processes, and opportunities of each trade. There is more than one path you can take. Apprenticeship programs, for example, are required and can be acquired through different types of organizations. Depending on the trade, apprenticeships can take different amounts of time. Sometimes a couple of years are required.
Your household necessities and financial position should always be a part of your decision-making process. Talking to a professional in the field or someone getting their license will be very helpful. Consider also the physical requirements and growth opportunities of each trade. Think about your options thoroughly. You should always consider your personal goals, physical limitations, and time constraints.
#2 Build your network
Like most things in life, having a group of people to look to for support will be a helpful tool. In your journey to find the perfect trade career, look for people who can help you along the way. There will undoubtedly be individuals going through the same thing you are.
Use your resources to your advantage. In very hands-on professions that often require entering people's homes and businesses, references and professional relationships are your most significant advantage. Thankfully, modern technology gives us a networking advantage our parents and grandparents did not have. You can find those with similar goals by turning to social media, labor organizations, and social groups.
#3 Consider the pros and cons of joining a labor union
Unions are a significant factor when it comes to trade careers. Therefore, understanding the pros and cons of union vs. nonunion groups is also very important. To start, a labor union is an organization of workers who discuss and make decisions surrounding wages, work conditions, and employee benefits for those in their organization and trade.
The decisions made in union groups tend to influence their industry. Yet, being an actual union member has its strengths and weaknesses. When starting, having additional assistance from a group of knowledgeable professionals can help lift a weight off your shoulders. Unions offer a structured environment and knowledge that could be useful to someone new in the field. Networking, apprenticeship, and even employment opportunities could be facilitated.
However, keep in mind that union fees and policies could also prove to be somewhat limiting. To be a part of the union, you must give them a percentage of your pay. Additionally, the views of the union will almost always overshadow your own. Therefore, your personal goals and aspirations must be brought to life within the parameters of the union's policies. Overall there are benefits to be had from either path. The most important part is to research and consult a professional with experience in your trade.
]]>Being a tradesperson, whether that means you work as an electrician, contractor, plumber, HVAC technician, or anything comes with great entrepreneurial potential. After going through the process of becoming licensed in your trade, you may find yourself in a position where tapping in on this potential and starting your own business seems to be the best choice for you. Getting started may seem intimidating, but it's essential to remember to switch over to an entrepreneurial mindset. As a business owner, you have to understand the ins and outs of your trade, but you must also have a concrete understanding of the business and the inner workings of everything involved.
Understand your responsibilities
To start, be prepared for your responsibilities to grow exponentially. As an entrepreneur and business owner, you are not only responsible for yourself and the work you do with your hands. You must also take responsibility for the work completed by your team members. This means hiring qualified professionals with an excellent track record is paramount. Additionally, ensuring that your team is motivated to get the job done, assuring they are being compensated appropriately for their work, and working under safe conditions, will make a huge difference. You want your company's results to be at the highest standards possible. Your team's level of reliability and performance will be the primary contributing factor for you to achieve these high standards.
Trial and error
Like most things in life, being an entrepreneur requires trial and error. Don't be afraid to try new things. If you feel a specific scheduling system, team structure or marketing strategy, or any other aspect of your company does not provide the desired results, try to switch it up. There are likely to be many situations where you have to change things multiple times before finding what works best. The critical thing to remember is that you will always get the same results if you stay still and continue to do the same thing. Test new strategies despite losing a little traction at the moment. Upon finding the best strategy for your business, the growth you will see will be worth the trouble.
Know your strengths and weaknesses
We have all been in a position where we think we know best. As an entrepreneur, it is essential to recognize your strengths and weaknesses. Your company's growth will come with an additional increase in your responsibilities. Looking to hire professionals in the industry who specialize in accounting, marketing, administration, etc., when you know your skills in these areas will limit the company's growth is essential. Keep your team and your customers' best interests in mind. Do what you can to help your business run as efficiently as possible.Remember, two minds are better than one, and the more qualified your team is to do their job, the better.
Grow and expand
Growing your business can be an exciting endeavor. Once you've gotten the hang of things, you have a solid team, you've managed to get a couple of stable clients, and you feel you are in a position where you could get some more jobs done, it's time to expand. By this point, you know the quality of the results your team can provide, and you know what it takes to get the job done. All you have left to do is improve your reach and visibility. Nowadays, there are many ways to get this done. A traditional approach, which continues to be very effective, is through door-to-door marketing, flyers, and reaching out to other businesses in your community. Simply talking to the building owners next to the one where you completed a job to offer your services can help build those relationships. Digital marketing, such as growing your social media presence and increasing your SEO (Link SEO Blog) (Search Engine Optimization), can be great resources when looking to expand and improve your company's visibility. Don't feel intimidated by technology. The more opportunities you give customers to find your services, the more calls you get for consultations. Keep your marketing up to date and prioritize acquiring new customers as much as possible, especially in a stage of growth and expansion.
]]>Search Engine Optimization, also known as SEO, refers to the process of increasing traffic to your website through unpaid or natural search results in search engines such as Google, Safari or Bing. Understanding how to get the most out of your website by maximizing the reach of your online presence can be a game changer for your business. So how does SEO work? To start off, it's important to understand the layout of search engine results. When a person goes to google for example, and types in “new ceiling fan installation Austin”, the results will show up as follows; at the very top they will see the paid publications for ceiling fans and just below that they will see the service providers ranked based on their relevance to the search engine query.
How does it work?
To kick things off, search engines will send bots out to investigate and gather information on different sites. This is known as crawling. These bots then take the information they gather and import it into a data index. This index is analyzed by the bots who take into account hundreds of factors to determine the ranking order of the sites. Your goal for your business website is to incorporate relevant factors into your website and marketing scheme to maximize your pages relevancy and increase your search engine ranking.
What can you do to optimize your page?
There are many different ways to increase the SEO of your website. A great way to start is by creating a clean, organized website that mirrors your company's values and goals. Now it's time to push your visibility to reach as many clients as possible. Consider the following tips.
Google Business Profile
Creating a google business profile is a great way to start increasing your SEO. Google business profiles are free and can be created online. Despite the great utility found in the google business profile features, few companies take full advantage of what's offered. Once you have treated your profile, do a deep dive into their resources to take full advantage of the features they have to offer.
Physical Address
As a contractor, having a physical address in the city where your main market lives could give you a great advantage. When a potential client goes in search for a general contractor, for example, they are likely to look at the local businesses displayed immediately on google or another search engine. If your business has a physical address in the city they are in, it is much more likely your business will rank higher in their search results. From your address profile, they will then be able to access the link to your website, phone number, pictures of your establishment, open hours and customer reviews. Having access to this information from the start will make it much more likely for them to give you a call and ask for your services.
Online Reviews
Having good online reviews is essential if you want your business website to rank higher than your competitors. Reviews can be a little challenging to get at first, however taking the extra time to ask your customers for their support is well worth it. All you have to do is pull out your phone and ask if your client would be kind enough to leave a review for your business. Explain that it would be extremely helpful to the business and you would love to hear their feedback. If they agree, send them a link then and there from your phone. Doing this will make it much more likely for them to express their support for your services and will demonstrate how much you care about the quality of your results and the satisfaction of your customers.
Blog
Having a blog is an excellent way to increase the visibility of your website. Not everyone will search for a contractor in general. By creating separate blog posts to cover the extent of your primary services along with tips and tricks that customers can use when looking to contact a contractor for their services, you create different avenues for people to find your website. By increasing the possibility that someone will search for something specific to a page on your site, your SEO will improve. At the end of the day you want to make your website as visible and user friendly as possible.
]]>We've all had some lousy job experiences in our day. Open communication and flexibility with new hires is a concept that has only flourished in professional spaces in recent years. As an adult, you've probably mainly been exposed to the figure it out yourself training style common in many organizations. Despite the stressful environment it creates, this tough-it-out and do not mess up mentality continues to be very popular. Especially in companies run by older generations. Nonetheless, it is not necessarily the most effective. The world's views on work environments are shifting. Changing your approach to training your employees can have increasingly positive results.
When starting a brand-new job, it's easy to feel nervous when you don't know what to do or make a mistake. Hands-on jobs like construction and plumbing typically involve a higher level of risk than your average gig. Consequently, an error can be very costly for you and your clients. Think of a pipe burst or a miscalculated pillar. A situation could become dangerous very quickly. For this reason, the consequences of doing something wrong often lead to aggressive responses from higher-ups. As you may imagine, one tends to be less likely to speak up when completing a project.
Additionally, complex projects require a tremendous amount of work. Often, a substantial team is needed. Everyone has a job to complete, and finishing the work correctly and promptly is of the essence. Having to step back to check on a new employee or an employee in training may seem like a big hassle. In these circumstances, taking the time to show support for your recently hired worker is essential. The last thing you want is for a large-scale project to suffer setbacks due to employee doubts.
As we discuss in The Importance of Mentorship in the Trades (Link to blog), mentorship programs can be a fantastic tool for creating comradery in a company. Having someone to look up to and seek advice from is always encouraging—particularly in meticulously mechanical and technical jobs. However, if you find yourself in a situation where your relationship with your mentor is intimidating, it can be incredibly counterproductive. As a company, creating a company culture that encourages its employees to work as a team can be very beneficial.
Productivity and efficiency come when workers feel comfortable asking questions or for help when they need it. A family culture has many benefits. Of course, keep in mind that professionalism and constructive criticism continue to be critical. A company should strive to achieve a healthy balance. Workers should feel the encouragement and importance of working hard to do their best. They should aim to get the job done right. At the same time, they should be confident enough in their relationship with their superiors to express their doubts and concerns when appropriate. As a contractor in any trade, this is especially true.
High employee turnover rates are something to avoid. Loyalty and trust come with time. You want to set a teamwork dynamic from the start. Reliability is vital, so make sure your team knows they can count on each other when needed. At the end of the day, this will encourage everyone to do the best job possible every time without hesitation. So do what you can to welcome your employees with encouragement and respect. Switch things up if you have to. Your business will thank you later!
]]>Starting on a new path in your career can be an intimidating process. You have likely spent a couple of years in a non-technical job or have determined that college is not the right choice if you recently graduated high school. At this point, if you are looking into different trade schools and career paths, you likely are already convinced that a trade career is a suitable choice for you. However, when you think about trade careers, there can be a seemingly overwhelming amount of options to choose from. Picking the right one might seem stressful, but the process will seem more straightforward if you put in the time and follow the tips below.
Do your research
Understanding your craft to the best of your ability is the best thing you can do as a tradesperson. What better way to get the ball rolling than researching the ins and outs of your trade before you start. What may seem like a specific type of job at first, upon further investigation, may turn out to be something you didn’t expect. Doing your research regarding the requirements for your license, typical work hours, working conditions, average pay, etc., will give you an idea regarding if it is the right job for you from the very start. To pass your exam, you will need to do a lot of studying on the subject, so you might as well choose something that interests you and that you enjoy.
Shadow
Shadowing is an excellent method for determining the compatibility between you and your new trade career. After doing all the research you can online, look into shadowing protection for a day. This will take you up close and personal with the typical working day and give you a more hands-on representation of what you will be doing if it is the trade you choose to pursue. Additionally, it can give you an idea of what it would be like to be an apprentice and give you a chance to talk to people already licensed and working in the trade.
Talk to someone with experience
Nobody will know more about the trade than someone with experience that has been working in the industry for years. If you manage to get someone to let you shadow, take advantage of the opportunity and ask all the questions you can. A good conversation with a trade professional can provide you with some valuable tips and tricks for passing your exam and maybe even help you get your foot in the door when it comes to an apprenticeship.
]]>Keep your old estimates on file
Your job as a general contractor is likely busy as is. There is no reason for you to add unnecessary work to your daily tasks. When typing up an estimate for a client, for example, for a remodeled kitchen or bathroom, use a recent estimate as a reference. Use the previously completed estimate like a template, then make the appropriate adjustments to assure that the number you come up with is relevant to the work and materials it will take to complete the job.
Whether or not you charge for an estimate is up to you. Depending on the size of your company and the size of the project the client wants to be completed. It might or might not make sense to charge for the estimate. Many companies give out estimates for free. Therefore the clients' previous experiences with contractors could also influence whether or not they want to make that payment.
Avoid charging per square foot
Charging per square foot is a popular option for many contractors. Many large corporations take this route, and due to the size of their team, it may be what works best for them. However, as a contractor just starting out or with a small business, charging the same as large corporations could put you at a disadvantage. Instead of going by the standard of charging per square foot, opt for the following steps as an alternative;
Assess the cost of the materials
The cost of the materials you will need to complete the project will determine the project's baseline cost. Do an onsite visit to take measurements and discuss their options regarding materials for the project with your client. Their decision regarding flooring, paint, finishes, etc., has the potential to change the cost dramatically and is one of the primary factors that lead to varying price points in similar projects.
Determine the size of the team you will need
Once your client has decided on the materials, they would like to use. You can now determine the size of your team. Depending on the complexity of the project and if the client has a specific period in mind to get the job done, the size of the team will vary.
Determine the hours it will take to complete the project
The number of hours it will take to complete the project will be crucial when determining the price. You can pay your workers hourly for the job, which will help you determine how much to charge your client.
Once these three factors can be determined, all that's left to do is add up the price of the materials and add the total derived from multiplying the hourly wages for each team member by the hours it will take to complete the project.
Pricing tends to be one of the most stressful parts of being a general contractor. However, it does not necessarily have to be. Developing a system that works best for you, your employees, and your clients will allow you to plan out your projects with greater ease while increasing your organization's professionalism.
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Create a study schedule
When preparing for such a detailed exam, it is essential to allocate enough time beforehand to ensure you are well-versed in the information you will be tested on. This may take a couple of months, so plan accordingly and schedule your exam date strategically. By purchasing or renting an exam book and considering your schedule and study habits, you will be able to determine the amount of time it will take you to understand the material on the exam fully. Creating a study schedule will then allow you to make the most of the time you have so you can learn the material effectively in the time you set aside.
Gameday tips
Get a good night's sleep
Getting a good night's sleep should be your priority every day. However, it is imperative to be well-rested when taking a licensing exam, which often takes a couple of hours to complete. Making sure you don't feel tired during the exam will allow you to be more productive and stay concentrated. Testing can be a more tiring process than one might assume, so don't stay up all night cramming. Plan your study sessions, be prepared in advance and the day before the exam, and go to sleep early to get a full eight hours.
Know the testing center location
Knowing your testing center location beforehand is paramount. On the day of your exam, your goal should be to eliminate any unnecessary ossicles. Knowing the testing center location and mapping out how long it will take you to arrive at the time of your test and where you can park if you bring your car will relieve you of a lot of stress. In effect, allowing you to focus on your exam.
What materials should you bring?
Calculator
It is recommended that you bring a calculator you are thoroughly familiar with. If calculators are on the list of approved materials, make sure to have one handy on the day of your exam. If you purchase one the day before your exam, you risk running into technical issues that could affect your score.
Light Snack
Licensing exams can often take a couple of hours to complete. To keep your energy levels up and help you focus, bring a light snack, for example, some pretzels, chips, granola, etc. Remember that the clock will not stop when you take a break to eat or go to the bathroom, so time your breaks strategically.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is paramount when partaking in a long exam. To avoid getting dehydrated throughout the day, make sure to bring a water bottle. Depending on the testing facility, there are likely to be regulations on the type of water bottles that can be brought in. Some facilities may require the bottle to be see-through to avoid cheating. Look into your exam regulations and restrictions for more information.
What if you don't pass the exam?
Invest in a review
Not passing an exam can be very discouraging. However, not all is lost. Many people don't pass the exam on the first try. Thankfully, you can retake the exam. With the knowledge you learned from your first experience taking the exam, you will be able to modify your study and test-taking techniques to improve your chances of doing better the second time around. Additionally, investing in a review of your first exam will allow you to see what sections you did poorly on, which will show you what you need to focus on for the next attempt.
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Have a good attitude
Being in a new environment can come with a lot of stress. When it comes to contractors, the feeling can become overwhelming due to the high risk on the job. Messing up someone's plumbing or electrical system could lead to severe consequences. It can be easy to let frustration take over in these situations. However, keeping a good attitude will prove to be a great advantage. You will be much less likely to receive sympathy from your employer or mentor if you talk back, do not have an open mind, or are closed off from any criticism.
Ask questions
As an apprentice, you are there to learn. Contractors lose money, time, and even clients when they fail to produce great results. Working as an apprentice, one of your primary goals should be not to make your job more complicated than it has to be. Initially, you might think this means not bothering them when you feel unsure what to do. Doing a task incorrectly will be a more significant burden for you, your supervisor, and the client. So if you find yourself in a position where you feel some doubt creeping in, make sure to get the clarity you need. You will much rather ask and get the job done right the first time than mess everything up and have someone fix your mistakes.
Be willing to learn
Apprenticeships can offer many opportunities to learn and grow the trades. If all goes well, you will eventually get to the point where you feel pretty confident in your abilities. This new knowledge is excellent; however, keeping in mind that there is always room for improvement is essential if you want to succeed. Being willing to learn and listening to your mentor will allow you to improve exponentially, making you a much better contractor later on.
Being mentally present
A long day at work can be challenging to handle at any job. It can be very easy to get distracted, especially when work slows down or is repetitive. Drifting off, being on your phone, and not knowing what's going on will only increase the likelihood that something will go wrong and have serious consequences for both you and your employer. Making an effort to be mentally present, listen carefully, and get your tasks done correctly will make your job a much more enjoyable experience.
]]>Knowing when and how to invest in yourself is crucial when taking on the challenge of starting and expanding your contractor business. As an entrepreneur in the construction industry, you likely feel confident in providing excellent quality results. However, new organizations often struggle in the early stages of their development due to a lack of knowledge and expertise surrounding the basics of business, marketing, and networking. Taking the time to invest in yourself as a business owner to ensure you fully understand the company's potential will prove more valuable than you might think.
Take a business course.
Once you have gotten your contractor license, you may feel unmotivated to take an additional course. After all, you've done your training, completed your apprenticeship, and likely want to put all your energy into getting your business off the ground. At this point in your career, taking the time to take a business course might seem like an unnecessary investment. However, gathering knowledge from business professionals could open your eyes to issues you didn't see before, helping you solve or avoid future obstacles. Becoming a great business person entails understanding how to market and sell your product, build the infrastructure of your organization, and network with the people in your industry to help your business thrive.
Learn from those with more experience
Understanding the importance of keeping a learner's mentality is crucial when starting a business as a contractor. After all the training and testing you must undergo to get your license and start your business, it can become easy to think you have it all figured out. However, contracting companies come and go. Delivering quality work is paramount if you want your company to last, so finding a coach or mentor who has been in your shoes could keep you motivated and help you avoid unnecessary mistakes.
The importance of networking
Being a contractor involves more of a team environment than one might think. Contractors are likely to run into situations where they are not qualified or do not feel they can provide the highest quality results. In cases such as these, having a network of trusted fellow contractors will be a great advantage. You can't specialize in everything; having the ability to recognize your organization's strengths and weaknesses will help you understand the types of relationships you need to have with other professionals in your industry. Your goal should be to build yourself up by helping build up those around you so that in situations where your expertise is needed, you will be the first one to receive the call.
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Keep your online presence strong
In today's technological society, keeping a strong online presence is one of the most effective ways to ensure your business will thrive. Making sure your website is up to date, goal-oriented, esthetically pleasing, and easy to read can give you a decisive advantage. People who need work done in their home or office building will likely do a quick internet search to find the type of contractor they're looking for. Finding a new contractor can be very intimidating, so making your online presence strong and inviting will show the customer you want to make the whole process easier for them, helping you build trust from the beginning. Additionally, creating social media pages to post good quality before and after pictures of your work can allow potential customers to find your company while simply scrolling on their phones. Staying active online, posting often, and staying up to date will all help with your company's visibility.
Know your customers
Understanding the needs and values of the community you serve can be a helpful advantage when embarking on your marketing campaign. Catering your marketing to a specific group of people, for example, focusing on family values, if you primarily cater to a suburban community, can help attract people to your company. Building trust with your customers is key to getting new leads. Understanding the needs of the area you serve based on geographic factors is also very important. Knowing the types of installations a home needs for specific weather patterns and staying up to date on new technology will show your clients that you are knowledgeable and experienced in your trade. Additionally, being aware of new trends and popular installations can help keep you prepared. If you see a trend start to pop up, like a new type of floor or a light system that aligns with your expertise, make it a point to understand how it works so you can be the first one to offer it to your customers. Once you have established your online presence and have a great understanding of your market, it will become easier to gather leads and get your business off the ground. There are endless ways to market your business, so take advantage and invest strategically, focusing on your website, advertisements, and quality photos for your social media accounts to get the most out of your online marketing.
]]>Stay organized
Staying organized is an essential part of any business. Over time, with a growing client base, an increasing number of employees, and an increased ability to complete complex projects, it can be easy to get some things mixed up. Being organized from the start and creating a system in which you can keep track of everything from new and returning clients to the number of materials used for each project and the time it took to complete each task can be beneficial by making you more aware of your businesses strengths, weaknesses and potentially needed improvements. Additionally, it will help you keep your clients more informed about the time and money that will need to be spent on a project from the start. So make spreadsheets to document your progress and keep important documents on file; they could prove more valuable than you think later on.
Know the value of your time and be upfront
Your time as a contractor is precious. Customers want their contractors to understand the time, materials, and workforce it takes to get the job done. Understanding the process it takes to complete certain types of projects will allow you to organize your business further to be as efficient as possible. Explaining to the customer from the start the time and cost of what they ask and additional costs associated with any changes they may want later down the line will make you look more professional and help avoid financial problems.
Learn to say no and know your strengths
Understanding your skills and abilities can also take you a long way. It might be tempting to say yes to a project because the pay is good and you're convinced you can figure it out. Making a decision such as this could be exceptionally detrimental to your business. Not to mention dangerous to your client and even your workers. Building up your skills as a contractor takes training and time. If something is outside the realm of your abilities, consider providing an alternative option to your client or refer them to someone else. Learning to say no to projects
you don't feel confident you can complete to the highest standard can save your company from financial and legal disputes and will send the message to your client that you care about their safety and want them to be satisfied and impressed with your services.
]]>Depending on the trade you would like to pursue, each application has a distinct set of requirements that you need to fulfill. Becoming a general contractor, for example, requires as a baseline that the individual be eighteen years or older, have a high school diploma or the equivalent, and have completed a certain amount of hours through an internship or on-the-job training. The process may seem long and overwhelming, but being diligent and taking the steps necessary to submit your applications correctly is paramount if you want to get your license in a timely manner. It's important to keep in mind that doing things carefully and correctly from the start can pay off big time by allowing you to not miss out on participating in potential projects, allowing you to build your client base and grow your business.
Additional requirements apply and vary greatly depending on the state where the application is submitted. For example, while anyone motivated to get their license is permitted to submit their application, the state must also take an individual's background into consideration. Those with criminal backgrounds, for example, will have to provide an adequate explanation regarding their situation. This additional documentation, testing requirements, fees, deadlines, and relevant paperwork can make the whole process feel stressful and overwhelming. Everything included in the application must be submitted correctly in order for it ot be reviewed by the state
Thankfully, there are trained professionals who can help walk you through this process. By hiring an application specialist through services such as those provided by Upstryve Inc., you can guarantee that your application is submitted to the state before the deadline and with the appropriate information to fulfill any relevant requirements. By taking the extra step to hire a professional during the preliminary phases of the application process, you can avoid time, stress, and money in the future by not having to hire someone later on to correct errors made during the original application. Having to hire someone later on to fix mistakes could be just as or even more expensive than hiring someone right out the gate and could delay obtaining your license.
Applying for a contractor's license may seem intimidating, but if you are looking for a career change or are interested in starting your own business, becoming a licensed contractor is an amazing choice. Organizations such as Upstyve are here to guide you through each step of the way, so don't hesitate to start on the journey, contact one of the application specialists at Upstryve, and start on your application; today!
]]>We all remember that one classroom at the end of the hall, the one that never failed to produce loud noises and a never-ending smell of wood and metal. At least for many millennial and gen z students, shop class was a class reserved for those who needed an extra credit on their transcript or had an additional elective. Those who took shop classes were predominantly male students who had difficulty paying attention, who didn't see college as a viable option for their future, and did not see the point in taking their academic careers seriously. To the rest of the students in the school, shop class, if offered at all, was just the classroom at the end of the hall, fostering little importance. But these hands-on classes were not always viewed in this light. In fact, not so long ago, shop class was one of the most important classrooms on campus. A place where students could leave at the end of the day, having learned vital skills that could be applied to various aspects of their everyday lives.
Considered an essential part of a school curriculum, shop class was one of the most commonly offered classes throughout school districts in the country in the 70s and 80s. As a vocational education course, shop class would teach students woodwork, metalwork, and mechanics, amongst other preliminary trades. In effect, allowing the participating students to develop organizational, problem solving, and critical thinking skills that could be easily applied to future careers. Additionally, allowing them the opportunity to discover carpenter, building, or mechanic careers, even opening the door to the visual arts world. The emphasis placed on the importance of being able to create something of quality and value with your hands made the concept of shop class very appealing to students. However, over time these values have shifted. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related subjects have become the powerhouse of the educational environment in recent years. The value of shop class, in effect, has become diluted in a technologically dominating world.
The consequences of not offering vocational courses such as shopping in schools have not gone unnoticed and can be seen in the growing modern-day middle-skills workers gap. As it turns out, maintaining a quality environment where students can be exposed to different career paths is an essential part of maintaining a healthy working class. Despite the shift in our society's values, emphasizing the importance of trade careers in schools and providing an outlet for students to learn new skills can only benefit the students in the long hall.
We can also take the opportunity to use the revival of shop class to modernize the idea of trade careers and improve the attitudes students may have towards them. While many students may think that becoming a plumber or builder is not a prestigious job, making sure they understand the importance and impact these careers have in their daily lives can make a huge difference. Trade jobs are directly tied to many energy, sustainability, and environmental issues. Teaching shop classes alongside different subjects, such as math, chemistry, history, and art, can show the students the drastic influence their trade career could have on the future of the world. With increasing tuition costs for universities and a dwindling guarantee of employment after graduation, students in the United States are desperately searching for alternative options. Shop class could not only give them a break from sitting in a chair all day as they do in their regular classes, but it can also help them discover an amazing new career they didn't know existed.
]]>General contractors, much like lawyers and foreign medical professionals, have to meet specific requirements to work in different states. In other words, there is no unanimity between states when it comes to licensing requirements; therefore, each sets its own. In situations where a contractor's business is located near a border with another state or can expand, being unable to work in both areas can be damaging to your business. For this reason, it is essential to learn about reciprocal agreements and reciprocal licensing requirements for contractors between states.
Reciprocity refers to recognizing and accepting a license from another state by the state where you are trying to conduct your business. Understanding the reciprocal agreements between the states where you would like to work can save you ample time and money, allowing you to skip over preliminary apprenticeship, documentation, and testing requirements. However, it's not as simple as it might seem. A reciprocal license does not mean your current license will suffice as is. While there might be recognition of your current license in a state, you will likely still be required to go through additional licensing fees and potentially even further testing depending on the state and your current license. Additionally, keep in mind that many states do not offer reciprocity licensing at all, in which case you will have to go through the licensing process in its entirety.
The best way to look at a reciprocal licensing agreement is as a helpful shortcut. Doing your research on getting a reciprocal license can keep you from spending unnecessary time and money going through the steps of getting a new license in every state you would like to do work. Advance your company and get ahead of the game by going on the state's government website and looking up the reciprocal licensing requirements for your area of expertise.
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The U.S. Department of Labor (DoL) celebrated Registered Apprenticeship during NAW, in which many applications for apprenticeships were submitted in its over 1,150 events. Registered Apprenticeship has been heavily backed by the Biden-Harris administration and is supported in its effort to Build Back Better -- an initiative that focuses on advancing opportunities for the working class.
NAW highlights included the launch of the Apprenticeship Ambassador Initiative, which focuses on promoting Registered Apprenticeship with underserved populations in mind. Diversity and inclusion was also the focus of many conversations during NAW, and National Women in Apprenticeship Day was celebrated with a message from Vice President Kamala Harris. A partnership with Jobs for the Future will facilitate the building of a national Center of Excellence to Advance Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in Registered Apprenticeship.
You can read more about some of the topics addressed during NAW on the DoL blog, including history surrounding the Labor Movement and women in the labor force.
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The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) is just one of many construction associations, but it is the leading association for workers in the construction industry, with divisions in Building, Federal and Heavy Construction, Highway and Transportation, and Utility Infrastructure.Whether you are a supervisor or self-employed contractor, AGC has numerous opportunities to connect with others in your industry or acquire additional skills and training.
AGC chapters offer curricula programs that cover subjects including but not limited to project management, supervisory training, and health and safety, with opportunities to earn certifications within these courses. Its shortest training program consists of one 25-hour unit, while the rest of the programs consist of more units and go into an extensive amount of information.
AGC offers lots of opportunities for connecting within the association, as well as scholarships, volunteer opportunities, and sponsorships. Research initiatives and scholarship programs provide students and educators the chance to contribute valuable knowledge and research to better the industry as a whole.
In addition to connecting members within the association, AGC also provides HR and networking resources. Its career portal currently has over 300 job listings and allows you to directly apply to jobs in the industry ranging anywhere from educators to project managers. AGC is just one of many construction associations, but its extensive base of resources and potential for making connections in the industry makes it a top choice in the country.
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If you are interested in Mentorship opportunities make sure to click here and learn more about our Mentorship programs.
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