With the approaching spring, things gear up as usual. With the prospect of generating a fair number of project leads from the Home Show, hence possible sales, I am anticipating an increase in the volume of work we will need to produce. Even before the Home Show became a reality, I was receiving an unusually heavy volume of calls for estimates.
I’d like to put this out as a feeler to individuals who might be interested in employment with my company. I am in no way guaranteeing anything, but I think the timing is right to meet with individuals who might be interested well in advance of the “storm”.
While most people understand the basics of what an employer expects of an employee, please forgive me if you think I’m bring patronizing. I’ll try to be brief with regard to what I would be looking for.
Age: Not important. I have found that “older” employees have an old school work ethic that falls in line with mine. Younger employees tend to have a little more physical prowess but lack the responsibility trait.
Experience: Some general experience is required. Use of basic hand tools, hammer, tape measure, some power tools. The more you know, the less I have to teach. I am also willing to train on the job but I can’t start with teaching tape measure and pencil sharpening 101.
Appearance: Most of my customer’s do not judge a book by it’s cover but general neatness and clean appearance is required. I typically expect the wearing of company tee shirts and hats, but you’re on your own judgement beyond that, weather permitting.
Work ethic: I do not expect employees to “live the business”, that’s my job. I do expect people to have the future in their thoughts. Understanding what task is next today, and tomorrow, to make sure products and materials are in order to keep progress moving forward. Punctuality is one of my sticking points. Tardiness is more than frowned upon. Sloppy jobsites are a great way for me to send to on your way.
Attitude / Personality: This is one of the most important parts of what we do. Unlike many construction trades, we often work with homeowner’s who are “around” more often than not. Being respectful and polite to customers is paramount. Knowing when to be conversational and when it’s time to politely return to work is required. Be nice but not over conversational or “creeping” people out.
Scope of Work: Based on what most of you have seen me post here, we perform a wide variety of tasks. We do not solicit roofing projects anymore, unless they are a part of an addition project we are building. Typically expect interior remodeling including demolition, basic framing, insulation, plumbing, electrical, drywall, painting, trimwork, and tiling. Replacement windows, siding and trim from time to time, patio decks, and other “bigger” projects come up from time to time.
Pay: The old saying “Pay commensurate with experience”. I’m not looking to make a fortune while keeping my boot on the throats of employees. Work a good day for good pay. We do a good job, everyone makes money, I’m happy to share. Pay will be discussed on an individual basis. If you think you’re going to be pulling in a Rolex paycheck, then this is not the field for you.
I would be happy to meet and discuss any of the above with serious individuals. I know everything about what’s required and expected cannot be covered here. Again, no guarantees here but if you think you’d like to talk, that’s still free. Thanks for the interest.