If you look at your nearest city’s skyline, chances are you’ll see several cranes towering between buildings. Venture out into the suburbs, and you’ll see crews busy pouring foundations and assembling new homes. That’s because there’s an ongoing construction boom in full swing, with no end in sight. Other than challenges in securing the necessary materials due to the simultaneously occurring supply shortage, construction professionals are mainly worried about keeping up with demand.
While the ability to wait for clients to call is a gift come true to any business, those in the construction industry must find ways to remain competitive. Failure to do so means other companies slowly but surely swoop in and take over.
With this in mind, let’s take a look at six tips for staying competitive in construction in 2022 and beyond:
Hire the right professionals
Your construction business relies on a vast network of skilled men and women, from architects to general laborers. As with any company, who you hire will significantly influence how well you stand up to the competition. Even if the majority of the professionals you work with are subcontractors, ensuring they’re capable of the task at hand is essential. Always take the time to properly vet any individual or business you choose to hire. Construction is a sector where mistakes can cost a fortune, and the biggest mistake of all is failing to hire the right professionals for the job.
Use the right software
Most people don’t think of construction workers as individuals using computers and navigating software. However, various types of software are critical for builders. From construction bid software to construction management software, there are several industry-specific options at your disposal. Furthermore, general business software covering everything from accounting to security must also be considered. A lack of state-of-the-art technology will put your company at a tremendous disadvantage. Don’t wait until you find yourself playing catch up with the competition; start using software now.
Find the right market
Some regions are saturated with construction companies, all fighting each other for the best projects. If you’re struggling to win bids, consider relocating to a place where the number of construction businesses is relatively small. Examine various regional markets before deciding on one or two to target. Depending on the size of your existing enterprise, it may be possible to open a new location in another area as a way to pull this off without compromising your ongoing projects.
Get the right coverage
When it comes to dangerous and expensive work like construction, insurance coverage is everything. While you might think your current policies are airtight in case of an accident, are you sure? Consider going over all applicable business insurance policies you’re currently under – with a lawyer if necessary – to uncover any loopholes or blind spots in coverage. Doing so today means peace of mind going forward, enabling you to confidently place bids without worrying about the protection you may or may not have for workers and others involved in the construction process.
Secure the right permits
Every construction project will require one or more building permits to be approved before going forward. While you can start building without them, it’s not only against the law, but potentially sets you up for stiff fines and being forced to undo all the work you’ve done. While seasoned construction professionals are familiar with the permit process, those relatively new to the business can easily find themselves overwhelmed without the right planning and preparation. Given the way this can handcuff you while you attempt to finish projects and win bids, don’t make the mistake of putting off building permits until the last minute. Doing so can spell disaster for all parties involved.
Do the right thing
Integrity is an essential aspect of any enterprise. Those in construction must provide a superior product at a reasonable price. Overcharging, underperforming, and taking the easy way out at every turn are sure ways to make your company less competitive. The solution is simple: dependability, honesty, and politeness will go far in helping your company rise above the rest.
Take a look around – or open your window and listen – and you’ll soon discover there’s construction going on everywhere. That’s great news for construction industry professionals – especially those at the helm of their own business – but only if they remain competitive.
