The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

If you’re ready to level up your communication skills and gain the confidence needed to handle challenging client interactions, this episode is for you! Tim and Derek break down the power of effective communication in sales and share real-life scenarios to show how clear, confident conversations can turn obstacles into opportunities.

In this episode, they discuss:

• The Link Between Sales and Communication: How sales is more than just closing deals—it's about understanding clients and effectively communicating value and boundaries.
• Handling Emotion in Difficult Conversations: Derek shares his journey on remaining composed and unemotional, even with high-stakes clients.
• Building Confidence with Training: Discover how consistent training and learning can strengthen your confidence and reduce concessions in difficult client situations.
• The Role of Validation in Client Interactions: Why clients often just want to be heard and how validating their concerns can build stronger business relationships.

Resources:

💰 Calculate Your 50% Gross Profit

You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially! Start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job with our worksheet: Gross Profit Worksheet

💸 Spotting Cheap Prospects Guide

Filter out clients who aren’t a fit with our free guide: Cheap Prospects Guide

Join Us in BATTLEGROUND

Everything your contracting business needs to succeed is in our Battleground Program, with focus areas on Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. Find out more at Battleground Program

Connect with Us on Social Media:

• YouTube: The Contractor Fight
• Instagram: @thecontractorfight

Rate the Podcast

Enjoyed this episode? Help fellow contractors find us by leaving a rating/review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Meet BATTLEGROUND coach Micah Miller, a true fighter who turned his life around. A few years ago, Micah was facing over $400,000 in debt and feeling immense stress. But he took a chance on the contractor fight programs, worked hard, and transformed his life. Now, he’s close to building a $6 million business and has achieved financial freedom for his family. Tune in to listen to coach Micah’s journey and insights!

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro

[00:50] - The spirit of a fighter

[01:35] - All in

[02:35] - Tough moments

[03:52] - Money can’t buy happiness but solves problems

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify

If you went to Mile High Profit Summit 2024, your mind must be buzzing with new ideas and strategies, and you're fired up to take action. But then reality sets in. The exhaustion kicks in, the motivation starts to fade, and suddenly, your big plans are collecting dust. Tim and Derek are here with a simple solution to break this cycle — Just Push Record. Record a short video about your business, share it, and watch as each video improves your skill, confidence, and business!

In this episode, they discuss:

• Importance of taking action and implementing strategies learned at events like Mile High Profit Summit
• How video helps in business visibility and personal development
• 100-day video challenge to help build confidence and consistency
• The impact of the Battleground group's daily video challenge
• Power of speaking goals aloud and the importance of taking action on opportunities
• Building accountability and surrounding yourself with people who push you to grow

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify 

His project manager walked off the job, 22 open jobs waiting to be completed, negative net profit,  unhappy clients, and a team that’s been reduced after the PM quit on him — Matt, a third-generation contractor from Massachusetts, is facing some major business challenges. Tom sits down with Matt to find a way out of this tough situation.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro

[00:19] - Matt’s background and business overview

[00:38] - The project manager walked off the job

[03:40] - Strategy to tackle these challenges

[06:20] - Communicate with clients, even when the news isn’t good

[07:20] - Focus on finishing one project at a time to avoid profit leaks

[11:03] - Managing the remaining team after some crews left

[14:32] - Tom’s experience with a similar situation

[17:04] - Reverse engineering projects and setting daily milestones

[18:55] - $1.5 million in pending projects

[19:34] - How the situation is affecting both his business and home life

[22:48] - Leadership shortcomings that led to this situation

[24:12] - The importance of hands-on leadership and accountability

[26:40] - Non-negotiable commitments Matt must make 

[31:15] - Focusing on man hours and targets

[32:50] - Tom’s 20 steps to a successful project

[35:14] - Impact of his current business on sales

[41:31] - Training the team to solve problems independently

[44:11] - Matt’s plans to hire a new project manager

[47:07] - Biggest takeaways from the conversation

[49:40] - Closing remarks

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify 

You probably spend a ton of time and money trying to find new clients. But what about the ones you’ve had for years? When was the last time one of your old clients called you up and asked, “Hey, do you still do roofing?” or “I didn’t know you painted exteriors, too!”

Tim and Derek discuss how contractors often focus on attracting new customers but forget to nurture their relationships with existing ones. They tell you to nurture your relationships with your long-time customers instead of just focusing all your efforts on getting new clients — so they don’t forget you and the services you offer!

In this episode, they discuss:

• The importance of building long-lasting relationships with clients, not just focusing on getting new clients
• Tips to show appreciation to long-term clients
• How small gestures can strengthen client loyalty and brand awareness
• Constantly communicating with clients and reminding them of all the services you offer so they don’t forget about you
• The long-term benefits of nurturing client relationships

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify

Tom is at it again. After being out of the game for over 12 years, he is building a brand new painting company, Simplify Painting, from scratch. In this episode, Tom shares why he’s returning to the industry, his strategies for building a contracting company from the ground up, and how he is approaching marketing, lead generation, and brand building. Tom also shares the impressive sales and profit numbers Simplify Painting has achieved in a short time.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Tom’s new business: Simplify Painting

[01:22] - Why Tom started a new painting business 

[03:24] - Creating new experiences and stories to share

[06:38] - How Tom started his new business from scratch

[06:51] - Strategies for lead generation

[07:26] - #1: Paid sources

[09:36] - #2: Prospecting

[10:44] - #3: Utilizing social media and SEO

[11:22] - #4: Door-to-door canvassing

[11:52] - How side hustle allows him to focus all profits on business growth

[13:10] - Sales success so far

[15:36] - Why Tom turned down a $14k job

[17:31] - Mistakes Tom made that cost him money

[20:08] - Quick, consistent, and clear communication

[21:12] - Don’t be discouraged by economic negativity

[23:16] - Importance of quality control and maintaining high standards

[26:30] - Build your brand

[27:52] - Implement the strategies of BATTLEGROUND 

[29:41] - Final thoughts

Resources:

== Simplify Painting: https://www.simplifypainting.com/ 

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify 

When you want to buy something and find the right product, even if it’s expensive, you’re willing to spend the money because you see its value. Selling works the same way! If you understand how you feel when you buy something, it can help you sell better. 

Tim and Derek explain that if you want to boost your sales, you should sell like you buy because this allows you to understand the mindset and needs of your client. It also allows you to sell more effectively by speaking about the value of what you’re offering instead of just the price.

In this episode, they discuss:

• What does it mean to sell like you buy
• How spending money on big projects for his home has made Derek more confident when selling expensive services to his clients
• Selling like you buy, instead of being afraid of the numbers
• The role of sales training, repetition, and learning from mentors to develop your sales skills
• Building the skills and mindset to attract high-value clients and not be afraid of big projects and costs

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify 

Today’s guest, Mira, talks about how she built a successful business but felt unhappy and decided to change her path. Mira created a six-figure business but realized that something was missing—she felt unfulfilled and empty inside. She had climbed the ladder of success, but it was leaning against the wrong wall.

Mira discusses how important it is to define success on your own terms, listen to your inner voice, and make tough decisions. She also shares how she is now building a career and life that truly fulfills her.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro

[00:42] - Mira’s background

[02:07] - Mira’s income and business before joining Battleground

[06:04] - Transition from being a handywoman to a GC

[09:05] - The challenges she faced during her transition

[11:11] - Feeling unfulfilled and unhappy despite success

[17:44] - How Chris Dwyer helped her realize her ability to make change

[21:46] - The body will tell you when you need to figure things out

[22:32] - Deciding to step back from the business

[24:21] - Mira’s plans to focus on her passion for woodworking

[27:30] - Examples of business owners feeling unhappy despite financial success

[30:01] - The pressure entrepreneurs put on themselves to have a certain type of business

[31:03] - Mira’s non-negotiables

[34:22] - Separating her identity from her business

[38:55] - Why is Mira a successful business owner?

[41:49] - Build a business that serves you, not controls you

[43:56] - Not waiting for “someday” to have the life you want

[47:42] - Taking many retirements and the value of financial discipline

[49:44] - Closing remarks

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify

Which of these better represents your company: Crews without uniforms, company vehicles, or team members fully decked out in company uniforms and gear? Tim and Derek discuss the importance of uniforms and branding for your business. When people see your crew looking professional, they assume you’re the real deal. But, it’s not just about impressing the customers. Uniforms also have a way of bringing the team together, fostering a sense of unity and pride.

In this episode, they discuss:

• The impact of uniforms and branding on the perception of a company’s professionalism
• The connection between branding and company culture
• Derek’s experience with hiring a crew without uniforms
• The importance of company culture and community and how uniforms can contribute to this
• How wearing company gear can boost team morale
• Tim’s preference for not being the face of the company and how it allows employees to feel part of the company

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify

Neil Kristianson, the CEO of The Contractor Fight, sits down for a round-table discussion with BATTLEGROUND coaches Aaron Harshaw and Tim Cutroni to discuss what’s happening in the contracting industry right now. They discuss the tough challenges contractors are facing in 2024, from dry spells in sales to the shifting market dynamics and how to stay strong in a competitive market. They also share the current state of their businesses and give practical advice for contractors looking to navigate this tricky year.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] - Intro

[00:41] - Aaron’s bio and his contracting business

[01:20] - Tim’s bio and the current state of his business

[04:00] - Aaron’s experience of a sales dry spell from Q1 to Q2

[05:50] - The mindset shift needed to stay positive in tough times

[07:12] - Mindset differences in contractors within BATTLEGROUND vs. outside it 

[09:57] - How Aaron overcame the dry spell in his business

[11:48] - Advice for struggling contractors

[13:40] - Stories of recent wins from BATTLEGROUND members

[17:44] - Aaron, Tim, and Neil’s plan for 2025

[22:29] - Wrap-up

Resources:

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ 

💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap 

== Join us in BATTLEGROUND ==

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground 

== Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook 

== Grab the Gear ==

https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/ 

== Find Us on Social Media ==

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber 

Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig 

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review! 

Apple Podcasts  

Spotify