It doesn’t matter how big your business is or how many employers you have, there are a few common mistakes that could have a massive impact on the success of your business. Don’t let these common mistakes trip you up. They are easily avoidable if you take the time to get them under control now.

Not taking safety seriously

How do we say this… Safety should be your number one priority!

It doesn’t matter how big the job or site is, workers’ safety should be a top priority. Without adequate safety measures in place, you are risking everyone involved. Make it mandatory to take part in regular safety programs. Don’t just make safety training a box to check at the beginning of employment, schedule training sessions once every six to eight months.

Safety rules and regulations are subject to frequent changes, that is why it’s critical to stay ahead of the curve by upskilling yourself and staff. It’s a sad reality but mishaps happen on-site, but you can provide the appropriate training to ensure your staff are well prepared if something does go wrong.

Thanks to our mates over at HazardCo, staying on top of your health and safety requirements is a breeze. They will provide you with effective and easy to follow health and safety plans for your business plus continuous support and guidance. Check them out at www.harzardco.com.

Also, don’t wait for Jimmy to chop his finger off or Larry to fall down the stairs to implement regular safety training. Be proactive and hope for the best but plan for the worst.   

Poor scheduling

A project schedule will set the tone for the entire job. We’ve all been apart of projects where the concrete is poured late which means the frames are late which led to the plumbing by pushed back – you get the picture.

In most cases, this can all be avoided by having a clear schedule which clearly maps out tasks and requirements from start to finish. Whether it’s when a section needs to be completed by or when materials need to be ordered, a solid schedule that is regularly checked and updated will greatly increase the efficiency of your project.

In today’s market, there are a number of digital programs that can make project scheduling a breeze.

Hiring the wrong people

There is nothing worse than hiring the wrong person. Firstly, it’s costly and time-consuming, secondly, it’s just a hassle.

However, you can reduce the effect that this may have on your business and projects, by simply doing your due diligence when looking for new employees. Take your time when hiring new staff and invest time in training and upskilling them.

Not growing at a sustainable pace

Growth is exciting, I mean isn’t that the point of owning a business – to grow and dominate the industry?

However, be careful not to get too carried away. Getting too big for your boots can be disastrous if you’re not prepared. It’s important you stick to your plan and grow in a smart manner. This will allow you to grow at a sustainable rate and not overexert your precious resources.

Inaccurate estimates of costs

Doing a complete and accurate analysis of the project before you start is critical. One of the biggest pitfalls many constructors face is underestimating the costs of a project.

Accurately estimating your expected costs will allow you to budget accordingly. It will also save you the heartache of running out of key materials at crunch time or over staffing and paying for labour you don’t need.

Failing to plan for the unexpected

When was the last time you were part of a job that went perfectly? It may take some time to remember. It’s very rare that a project will be plain sailing from start to finish.

As you’re drawing up your master schedule or creating a project budget, factor in some leeway in case of some bumps. It could be anything from Cyclone Gita to your plumbers walking. We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again, hope for the best, plan for the worst.

Not implementing technology  

How good is technology? It has made every aspect of our lives easier! From helping you pick a 13-leg multi to platforms that make business admin a walk in the park.

One of the biggest downfalls of Kiwi tradies is their slow uptake of technology- unless it’s tinder or Snapchat. For contractors, having all your ducks in a row is critical to your viability. Whether it’s your accounting, planning and scheduling or project management, there is a platform available to manage every aspect.

By implementing the appropriate forms of technology into your business and projects, you’ll be a lot more efficient and cost-effective, ultimately keeping you ahead of your competition.

These common mistakes are easily addressed. It doesn’t take much to implement the appropriate technologies, schedule a training course or planning for the worst. Don’t let these issues hold your business back. Grab them by the throat and get them under control. Then watch your business boom!