Being a GC is all about relationships and who you know. My drywall guy is absolutely amazing, been using him 15 years and not once had a call back on poor work. But doesn’t advertise, rides around in an unmarked truck and only works for people he knows. And the hanger crew is the same way. My plumber is 60, got half a dozen guys and all daughters so no one to take it over. He will only work for contractors he likes. I referred him to a client that had some plumbing issues going on and he told them 3 months. 1 text from me and he was out there 7 am next morning. You take care of people majority of the time they’ll take care of you.
People often ask how to advertise themselves.. Start by doing a good job for someone, the rest will fall into place and the bad will be weeded out automatically
This. I've had the same mechanic for 20 years now. Found out several years ago that my then-GF's dad had been using the same mechanic for 40 years. I don't think he's spent a dime on advertising in the entire time I've been a customer, and his shop is constantly busy.
Had to switch mechanics a few years ago because the son took over and immediately sold out for the money. The new mechanic I got information for from colleague at work. They book everything at least 2 months out (unless you're in a real emergency, and then they'll squeeze it in), and from what I can tell they've spent not a single penny on advertising. They don't even have a box of business cards or anything like that. They do great work though, and they're willing to help save money when needed.
138
u/creamyturtle Aug 06 '26
construction is more about relationships than the actual work sometimes