Questions to Ask Before Hiring a General Contractor

Gone are the days of behavioral interviews in today’s hiring landscape. The “Tell me about a time when…” approach may prove helpful to gauge character and leaderships skills. However, with the breadth and depth of tools, systems and processes in the architecture, engineering and construction industry (AEC), it’s important to dig deep to find contractors with the right skillset, along with the right mindset. Here are some questions to ask before hiring a general contractor to fulfill your workforce needs.

5 (More) Predictable Ways to Manage Multiple Construction Projects

In June, we wrote about five predictable ways to manage multiple construction projects. The article included things like creating detailed plans for each project, or properly allocating resources, whether materials based or personnel based. Of course, we know that there’s more to this list than the five tips we shared, so here’s part two of our list of predictable ways to manage multiple construction projects.

AutoCAD Certification Exams Every Architect Should Consider Taking

The famous saying that ‘college degrees are a dime a dozen’ holds sway in almost every market niche Millennials graduate into in this decade and the field of architecture is no different. Sadly, employers in the architectural niche view college degrees as nothing more than the paper which tags you as an architect thereby limiting your employability. And to break the chains of these limitations, some considerable effort must be expended on your part in the pursuit of your professional development.
Here, we will focus on AutoCAD certification programs as a means of developing yourself professionally due to the recognition and prestige it gives you over the competition. So here are the 3 Important AutoCAD certifications you should consider attaining.

Should You Offer Builder Allowances to Your Clients?

There are a few things that will make any construction project go smoothly. High quality work, for example, should be priority number one. Following that, strong adherence to deadlines, an open line of communication and transparency throughout the project lifecycle can ensure complete satisfaction for all stakeholders.
Each of these elements ensure superior service to clients and peace of mind for construction teams, and builder allowances provide yet another area of opportunity to deliver high quality projects, on time and on budget.

Get Ahead of Your Competitors by Offering These 4 Projects

The versatility of your company can be the cornerstone of getting ahead of the competition. From demolition, to wiring and framing, to painting and finishing—when customers find one company that can complete the job from start to finish, it not only proves convenient for them, it saves you time on labor and setup, since you don’t have to hire “specialty” companies to complete the job.
If everyone in your area offers the same range of service—take roofing, siding and windows, for example—but customers constantly ask for decks and outdoor spaces, with no where to go, you may want to look into expanding your expertise to fill such a need. After all, the greatest convenience a construction company could offer to customers is versatility. Get ahead of your competitors by offering these four projects.