I’ve been reading Tribes by Seth Godin again. I’m probably on my third time through. It’s a book mainly about how to break out of status quo and lead a movement. It’s full of inspiring stuff that I’m still chewing on.

So, what’s the status quo for many contractors? Here’s what I hear from people a lot:

1. Contractors are hard to reach and don’t return calls.
2. Contractors often show up late.
3. Contractors are generally unreliable.
4. Contractors are not very professional.

I could go on…

Unfortunately, the truth in that perception gives us an opportunity. We can change the status quo, just by acting like a professional.

A professional…:

1. Promptly returns phone calls.
2. Shows up early or on time and calls if they are running late or need to reschedule.
3. Does what they say they will do at the price quoted.
4. Knows when to ask for help.

Seems basic right? I’ve often heard that if you’re a contractor and you just these four things that you’ll be way ahead of your competition. The problem is, that it takes more than just a couple satisfied clients to run a business.

I’ll admit, it’s a difficult thing to do everything right all the time. Let’s add one more item to the list:

A professional admits when they make a mistake and takes action to correct it.

A true professional is not self-serving, but others-serving. This means that the customer’s satisfaction is the goal. It may mean losing money on a job or deflating your ego, but if you treat a customer well and honestly correct any mistakes, you’ll have the chance to turn that customer into a raving fan.

Godin also says that it only takes a few of these raving fans to have a successful business. You never know which client may bring you the referral that pays the next month’s bills. Treat them all as gold.

-Peter

www.ContractorBusinessTalk.com