How to Talk to Contractors
A client called me the other day to gripe about a contractor. They had made two or three attempts in as many weeks to contact the contractor but he kept stringing them along. This is VERY common.
When she described their communication, I realized the issue. Here’s a quick guide for communicating with contractors. It’s not guaranteed to work but it will significantly improve your chances.
Talking to Contractors: a quick guide*
► Texting is usually best. Email and phone calls only occasionally work. Remember that they’re probably outside building houses all day, not sitting inside by the computer and phone.
► Keep it short and sweet. They’re busy. They don’t have time to hear your whole life story. Give them a brief overview and then…
► Ask for an in-person or video chat meeting.** There’s lots to discuss and a meeting is the most efficient use of time.
► Be patient, don’t be annoying. If they’re building your project, you should expect a quick reply (within a day or so).** But if you’re contacting them about a potential project or your project starts in a few months, give them a break. They’re focusing on whatever project they’re building and you are not top priority. You’ll be happy this is the case when they start building your project.
► Follow up if you haven’t received a reply in 3 days (if it’s a text message) or 1 week (if it’s an email or voicemail). Follow up twice (which is a total of three tries to contact them).
If none of this works, you should rethink your choice in contractor.
*This does not apply to huge construction companies.
**Avoid asking your contractor to meet or talk on the weekends. Everyone deserves time away from work.