Today Cam + Joey take us through “The Hustlehoff” from our “Finding Work Bible”. 

The age old rule with finding work is simple: you’re only as good as what you were doing 3-6 months ago. 

We run through essentially everything (or mostly everything) that you can do organically to ensure that you are retaining clients + also giving yourself the best shot at bringing future work in the door. 

But remember, the wrong kind of work is worse than no work, the wrong client is worse than no client, and hiring the wrong staff member is worse than having no staff members.

Huge shout out to a previous pod we did called “The Finding Work Bible” which you will find a lot of value in. 

If you want a copy of the finding work bible PDF pls just reach out anytime. 

Enjoy the pod x 

“No I don’t want no scrubs” // TLC

It’s a tale as old as time; kind business owner hires and then keeps average staff members around for too long only to feel the wrath. 

You weren’t born to be average, and your business was not created to do average work with average people for average clients. 

You were born to be exceptional, and your business was created to do awesome work with awesome people for awesome clients. 

So stop hiring + keeping around average team members only to watch them bring down the culture, team, vibe, retention, work quality, and eventually your reputation. 

Hire the best people in the industry, and let them cook. 

Be exceptional. 

Enjoy the pod x 

Summary

This episode explores the importance of maintaining high standards in staff, culture, and business practices. It emphasizes the dangers of holding onto average staff, micromanagement, and the significance of hiring elite talent to foster a thriving company environment.

Keywords

business culture, staff performance, hiring, leadership, team management, company reputation, employee turnover, business growth, leadership tips, staff development

Key Topics

The impact of average staff on business culture and reputation

The importance of hiring top talent and letting them 'cook'

Recognizing and addressing underperformance early

The iceberg theory: seeing only 10% of staff issues

The dangers of micromanagement and meddling in team dynamics

Creating and maintaining a strong company culture

The role of honesty, necessity, and kindness in communication

How to identify and let go of underperforming staff

The importance of a rigorous hiring and probation process

The emotional and reputational costs of holding onto average staff

Takeaways

Average staff can undermine company culture and profitability

Hire A-players and let them excel without micromanagement

Recognize the iceberg of staff issues—what's beneath the surface

Trust your gut feelings about staff performance

Let go of underperformers quickly to protect culture

A strong culture attracts great staff and clients

Use the 'true, necessary, kind' filter in communication

Implement a thorough probation period for new hires

Avoid the trap of justifying poor staff performance

Prioritize your business's reputation over comfort in difficult conversations

Titles

The Hidden Cost of Average Staff: How to Build a High-Performance Culture

Why 'Scrubs' Can Kill Your Business and How to Avoid It

Sound Bites

"Hire the best people and let them cook."

"Let them cook, do whatever you want."

"You're only seeing 10% of the iceberg."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The Cost of 'Scrubs' in Business

00:57 The Skill Level of Staff and Business Expectations

01:56 Hiring A-Players and Building a High-Performance Team

03:21 Managing Staff and Avoiding Micromanagement

05:15 The Power of Company Culture and Its Creep

06:38 Communicating Effectively: The 'True, Necessary, Kind' Filter

08:59 The Dangers of Underperforming Staff and Letting Go

12:04 Probation Periods and Trusting Your Gut

16:10 The Iceberg Theory: Seeing Beneath the Surface

19:20 Handling Client and Staff Feedback on Performance

23:11 Measuring What Matters: Morale, Culture, and Reputation

26:02 The Importance of Reflection and Slowing Down

28:08 Hiring for Attitude and Skill: The Perfect Balance

30:53 The Slow Creep of Culture and How to Stop It

32:17 Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Business's Reputation and Culture

Resources

No Rules Rules by Reed Hastings - https://www.amazon.com/No-Rules-Rules-Netflix-Innovation/dp/0385544775

Today on Sunday Skool Cam takes us through building out a price book for something new, be it residential or commercial. 

Let’s be honest, most price books are complicated and you need a PHD in someone else’s brain to even begin to start to make sense of hacking the main frame for zero enlightenment. 

Cam has fleshed his one out to be very simple + very effective. Today he shows you how to build it out and apply for quick quoting sorcery. 

The people are real. The cases are real. The rulings are final! 

Yes that is a Judge Judy quote. 

Enjoy the pod! 

Much love xx 

Keywords

residential construction, new builds, quoting, price book, efficiency, job management, electrical installation, project stages, time estimates, pricing strategies

Summary

In this podcast episode, the host discusses the intricacies of quoting and managing residential new build projects. Emphasizing the importance of creating a price book, the conversation covers various stages of construction, efficient job management, and the significance of accurate measurements. The host provides practical examples and insights into pricing strategies, ultimately guiding listeners on how to streamline their processes for better efficiency and success in the residential construction space.

Takeaways

Creating a price book simplifies quoting for new builds.

Understanding project stages enhances efficiency.

Accurate measurements are crucial for successful installations.

Job management impacts overall project success.

Efficiency in quoting can lead to better pricing strategies.

The cutout stage is often overlooked but vital.

Proper planning at the rough-in stage saves time later.

Future-proofing your quotes benefits long-term success.

Less material is needed for new builds compared to renovations.

Effective communication with clients is key to project management.

Titles

Mastering Residential New Builds

Efficient Quoting Strategies for Construction

Sound Bites

"Make your life easier with a price book."

"You will thank your future self."

"Not every job is the same."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Residential New Builds

02:25 Understanding the Phases of New Builds

09:21 Efficiencies in Quoting and Estimating

12:22 The Importance of Job Management

14:57 Building a Price Book for New Builds

19:38 Detailed Breakdown of Pricing Items

Coming to you live from our live event in the Gold Coast! 

Today Cam hosts Sam Hooper (SBH Electrical), Brad Hibberd (Hib Electrical) + Josey Bremner (Bremner Electrical) for a bunch of questions our live event attendees through in a bowl. 

The crew had no preparation for the questions, which always makes for a great organic answer. 

We chat through gross profit, finding clients, hating builders, loving builders, real estate work, margins, materials moves, mains pulls + much much more. 

What a time to be alive. 

Enjoy the pod! 

Keywords

client acquisition, staff retention, business growth, work-life balance, commercial contracts, self-doubt, financial confidence, operational management, AI automation, personal needs

Takeaways

Client acquisition often starts organically through personal networks.

Persistence is key in chasing builders and clients.

Vetting processes should focus on character and fit, not just experience.

Work-life balance is crucial for long-term success.

Understanding financials boosts confidence in taking on larger projects.

Communication is vital in managing client expectations and pricing.

AI can streamline processes but should not replace personal touch.

Separating personal identity from business is a challenge for many entrepreneurs.

Improving gross profit requires strategic pricing and labor management.

Building relationships with clients can lead to more consistent work.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, the Sparky Coach Group discusses various aspects of running an electrical business, from client acquisition strategies to staff retention and the importance of work-life balance. The participants share their personal experiences, insights on overcoming self-doubt, and the significance of understanding financials when taking on larger projects. They also explore the role of AI in streamlining operations and the challenges of separating personal identity from business. Overall, the discussion provides valuable tips and strategies for electricians looking to grow their businesses while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Titles

Navigating the Electrical Business Landscape

From Struggles to Success: A Sparky's Journey

Sound Bites

"Client acquisition often starts organically."

"Persistence is key in chasing builders."

"Understanding financials boosts confidence."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background Stories

05:40 Finding and Vetting Staff

17:52 Gaining Commercial Clients

33:12 Expanding Business Horizons

39:44 The Balancing Act of Operations Management

50:45 Leveraging AI and Automation

59:16 Improving Gross Profit Strategies

“I get a little bit Ghengis Kahn, don’t want you to get it on with nobody else but me” 

// Miike Snow “Ghengis Kahn 

The philosophical foundations for this pod are built upon “long term clients are better than short term money” and “once a client always a client”.

But let’s face it, there are plenty of valid (and not valid) reasons why a client would shop around or get a second opinion. 

Today we chat through lots of the common reasons why a client could potentially look for greener pastures and then explore your options in how to handle it. 

One things for sure, everything’s gonna be alright. Rock-A-Bye. 

Enjoy the pod xx 

keywords

client retention, long-term clients, business strategies, customer satisfaction, pricing strategies, client relationships, service quality, business growth, communication, industry insights

summary

In this conversation, the speaker emphasizes the significance of nurturing long-term client relationships over short-term gains. They discuss the importance of delivering quality service, understanding client expectations, and maintaining product integrity. The speaker also explores reasons why clients may shop around for other options and offers strategies for retaining clients and ensuring satisfaction. The overarching message is to focus on building a reputable business that prioritizes client relationships and quality service.

takeaways

Long-term clients are more valuable than short-term money.

Once a client uses your service, aim to keep them forever.

It's crucial to communicate effectively with clients to avoid misunderstandings.

Don't take good clients for granted; they are essential for repeat business.

Be proactive in addressing mistakes and owning up to them quickly.

Clients may shop around for various reasons, including poor advice or lack of capacity.

Maintaining product integrity is vital as your business grows.

Pricing should reflect the quality of service and materials used.

Focus on building strong relationships with clients to foster loyalty.

Good news travels, but bad news travels faster; reputation matters.

 sound bites

"Once a client, always a client."

"You might not have the capacity."

"Keep doing the right thing."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Long-Term Clients

06:05 Understanding Client Behavior and Shopping Around

11:57 Maintaining Quality and Integrity in Service

17:53 Strategies for Retaining Clients

23:38 Final Thoughts on Excellence and Consistency

Today Cam runs us through the importance of establishing (and building out) a residential service + maintenance price book. 

Let’s be honest, most price books are complicated and you need a PHD in someone else’s brain to even begin to start to make sense of hacking the main frame for zero enlightenment. 

Cam has fleshed his one out to be very simple + very effective. Today he shows you how to build it out and apply for quick quoting sorcery. 

The people are real. The cases are real. The rulings are final! 

Yes that is a Judge Judy quote. 

Enjoy the pod! 

Much love xx 

Keywords

price book, pre-builds, SimPro, job management, labor costs, installation, replacement, electrical work, quoting, efficiency

Summary

In this episode, we explore the importance of creating a price book and pre-builds for electrical work, focusing on how to streamline quoting processes using job management software like SimPro. The discussion includes practical demonstrations of building pre-builds, understanding labor and material costs, and the differences between installation and replacement tasks. The episode emphasizes efficiency and consistency in pricing, encouraging listeners to start building their price books for better service and maintenance outcomes.

Takeaways

Creating a price book helps streamline quoting processes.

Pre-builds can save time and improve efficiency.

Always allow for worst-case scenarios in material costs.

SimPro is a useful tool for managing job details.

Breaking down costs helps clients understand pricing better.

Duplicating pre-builds can speed up the process.

Installation requires more items than simple replacements.

Job management software can simplify complex tasks.

Consistency in pricing leads to better client relationships.

Starting with a simple list can help build a comprehensive price book.

Titles

Streamlining Your Quoting Process

Mastering Pre-Builds with SimPro

Sound Bites

"Make your life super easy for quoting."

"Allow for the worst case scenario."

"If you haven't started yet, get to it."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Price Book and Pre-Builds

02:52 Building a Pre-Build in SimPro

05:43 Understanding Labor and Material Costs

08:18 Creating Multiple Pre-Builds Efficiently

10:27 Installation vs Replacement: Key Differences

12:00 Expanding Pre-Builds for PowerPoints

14:17 Finalizing Pre-Builds and Installation Items

16:35 Utilizing Job Management Software Effectively

18:19 Conclusion and Next Steps

Today Cam + Crowe sit on the lounge to dissect the 8th wonder of the world which is attempting to understand how to decipher and apply the apprentice pays + allowances. 

This is an area most people get wrong or misinterpret, so our goal here is just to try and shed some light on what seems to be an overlooked area. 

There are plenty of items to consider here and in no way are we trying to replace Fair Work, so pls don’t take us as gospel and contact someone higher up than us if you want to achieve maximum enlightenment. 

Also to time stamp this it is Feb 2026 so rules may have been updated! 

Anyway, that’s enough disclaimers from our end lololol.

Get after it and make sure you’re paying people correctly xx 

Keywords

apprentices, payment structures, allowances, efficiency, compliance, Fair Work, time sheets, apprentice management, business operations, wage rates

Summary

This conversation delves into the complexities of apprentice payment structures, including allowances, compliance with Fair Work regulations, and the importance of efficiency in business operations. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on managing apprentices effectively, addressing common misunderstandings, and the critical role of time sheets in ensuring accountability. They emphasize the need for business owners to stay informed and organized to avoid costly mistakes and maintain fair practices in apprentice management.

Takeaways

Understanding the various allowances and rates for apprentices is crucial.

Efficiency in business operations can significantly impact profitability.

Compliance with Fair Work regulations is non-negotiable for employers.

Time sheets are essential for accountability and accurate payment.

Clear communication of expectations is vital for apprentices.

Mistakes in payment can lead to significant financial repercussions.

Regular reminders for compliance and administrative tasks can prevent oversights.

Apprentices should be educated about their entitlements and responsibilities.

Business owners must be proactive in managing apprentices to avoid misunderstandings.

Creating a standardized process for apprentice management can enhance efficiency.

Titles

Mastering Apprentice Payments: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating the Complex World of Apprentice Allowances

Sound Bites

"You can mitigate these things."

"You need to know this stuff."

"Slow down, make good decisions."

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Apprentice Payment Structures

02:55 Navigating Allowances and Rates

05:43 Efficiency in Business Operations

08:58 The Importance of Compliance and Fair Work

11:51 Managing Apprenticeship Expectations

15:02 The Role of Time Sheets in Accountability

17:52 Strategies for Effective Apprentice Management

20:47 Addressing Common Misunderstandings

23:50 Final Thoughts on Apprenticeship Management

“Turning into the light, becoming adult. Turning into myself” 

-Bloc Party “Banquet” 

Continuing our series on how to have a great 2026 we take inspiration from an all time classic “Banquet”. 

So often in business (and life) we know what works, we recognise what works, we do what works, and then it works. It starts clicking. I am making money. I am building wealth. I am being kind. Lesssgoooooo!!!! 

The life happens. Discipline slips. The alarm gets slept through. The phone call to your friend complaining about a staff member that takes 60 minutes takes priority over sending invoices and quotes. And all of a sudden, little by little, bit by bit, you have veered from the path that was working. 

Now, it’s not working. Nothing is working. It’s falling apart!!! HELLLLPPP!!! 

So often in business, we can self inflict negative results by stopping (or not starting) the things that work. 

Long story short, if you shoot yourself in the foot don’t complain that your foot is sore. 

This pod series is a couple deep now, and it’s aimed right at nailing the non negotiables so you can give yourself the best shot at having an incredible 2026. 

Get after it! 

Enjoy the pod xx 

Keywords

2026, business growth, profit margins, problem solving, client relationships, goal setting, wealth building, coaching, Sparky Coach, entrepreneurship

Summary

In this episode, Sparky Coach discusses strategies for achieving business success in 2026. The conversation covers the importance of understanding profit margins, the necessity of problem-solving in business, and the significance of setting clear goals. The host emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt and improve continuously, while also highlighting the value of building strong client relationships for future opportunities.

Takeaways

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing twice and expecting a different result.

Aim for a minimum net profit of 20% in business.

Understanding your own numbers is crucial for success.

The more problems you solve, the more money you make.

Setting short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals is essential.

Building strong client relationships can lead to future work.

It's important to know where your business stands financially.

Frustration can be a part of the growth process.

Stick to what works in your business strategy.

Getting started is the key to getting ahead.

Titles

Navigating Business Success in 2026

Maximizing Profit Margins for Growth

Sound Bites

"Stick to what works."

"Seed, time and harvest."

"I want the ball. I'm the halfback."

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to 2026: A New Beginning

02:50 Understanding Profit Margins and Business Growth

06:09 The Importance of Problem Solving in Business

08:56 Setting Goals for Success

11:48 Building Client Relationships for Future Work

Today Cam runs us through the importance of establishing (and building out) a residential service + maintenance price book. 

Let’s be honest, most price books are complicated and you need a PHD in someone else’s brain to even begin to start to make sense of hacking the main frame for zero enlightenment. 

Cam has fleshed his one out to be very simple + very effective. Stay tuned for next week as he shows you how to build it out and apply for quick quoting sorcery. 

The people are real. The cases are real. The rulings are final! 

Yes that is a Judge Judy quote. 

Enjoy the pod! 

Much love xx 

Keywords

price book, residential electrical work, service and maintenance, quoting, business efficiency, labor costs, customer relations, electrical pricing, pre-builds, electrical industry

Summary

In this podcast episode, the host discusses the importance of having a price book for service and maintenance work in the residential electrical market. He emphasizes the necessity of creating a consistent pricing structure, the benefits of quick quoting, and the importance of understanding job costs and materials. The conversation also highlights the significance of labor efficiency and productivity, particularly in residential service and maintenance work. The host encourages listeners to start building their price books and offers practical advice on how to do so effectively.

Takeaways

Having a price book is essential for your business.

It creates consistent pricing across all jobs.

Quick quoting increases customer conversion rates.

A price book enhances professionalism and customer experience.

Understanding job costs helps in making informed decisions.

You can measure labor efficiency and productivity with a price book.

Start by listing items in your own home to build your price book.

Utilize job management software to streamline the process.

Regularly review and update your price book as needed.

Implementing a price book can revolutionize your business operations.

Titles

Mastering Your Price Book for Electrical Work

The Essential Guide to Residential Pricing

 sound bites

"It makes you look professional and confident."

"You can continually measure against that."

"You're running a business to make money."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Price Books

01:00 Importance of Price Books in Residential Work

04:23 Benefits of Having a Price Book

08:47 Building Your Price Book

12:39 Understanding Labor and Material Costs

15:59 Final Thoughts on Price Books

This week we have the big Hib dog back on the lounge for some good times. Hib has just started doing a bit of coaching with us and he is an absolute weapon blessed by the trade gods for maximum sorcery + complete enlightenment. We discuss heaps of stuff including catching crays, closing the week, labour efficiency, staff, good staff, clients, keeping the product excellent + much more. I always love chatting to Hib! What a guy. Enjoy the pod xx Keywordsbusiness growth, weekly reviews, office time, labor efficiency, hiring quality staff, wholesaler relationships, tracking jobs, business adviceSummaryIn this conversation, Sparky Coach and Brad Hibbard discuss the importance of regular business reviews, prioritizing office time, and maintaining quality staff. They emphasize the need for tracking jobs and labor efficiency, navigating wholesaler relationships, and the trade-offs involved in business decisions. The discussion provides valuable insights for anyone looking to grow their business effectively while maintaining quality and profitability.TakeawaysThe best month in Tasmania is February.Regularly reviewing your week can prevent poor future outcomes.Prioritize office time to ensure business efficiency.Tracking every job is crucial for financial awareness.Labor efficiency impacts overall profitability.The quality of staff directly affects business success.Wholesalers can significantly impact material costs.Maintaining good relationships with wholesalers is essential.Every business decision comes with a cost.Consistent tracking leads to better business outcomes.TitlesNavigating Business Growth with Brad HibbardThe Art of Closing the WeekSound Bites"Best cray ever caught?""You have to prioritize your office time.""The money's made or lost in the office."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Catching Up02:27 The Importance of Weekly Reviews07:48 Prioritizing Office Time12:04 The Hierarchy of Business Truths18:06 Tracking Jobs and Labor Efficiency23:56 Hiring and Maintaining Quality Staff30:12 Navigating Wholesaler Relationships39:10 Final Thoughts and Advice