Today, host Dave Sullivan (“The Roofer Coach”) shares expert advice on the crucial first hire for roofing business owners aiming to grow beyond solo operations. Drawing on 30+ years of experience, Dave explains why building solid systems, outsourcing key tasks, and developing clear job roles are essential before hiring full-time staff. He emphasizes profitability, strong processes, and smart leadership as the foundation for sustainable growth, offering practical tips and free resources to help contractors build businesses that don’t depend solely on the owner. Tune in to hear more!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Importance of determining the first hire in a roofing business for solo operators
• Common mistakes in hiring, particularly bringing on salespeople too early
• Necessity of having a proven sales process and marketing system before hiring
• Importance of clear job descriptions and realistic expectations for new hires
• Aligning compensation plans with business goals to ensure sustainability
• Value of training, coaching, and retaining employees to minimize turnover
• Consideration of hiring from outside the roofing industry for fresh talent
• Need for a structured organizational design with defined roles and responsibilities
• Benefits of outsourcing administrative and inside sales functions to maintain focus
• Importance of having effective tools, such as CRM systems, to support business growth

Resources:

Check out this episode on our Youtube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://youtu.be/N7F2wJVbfwk

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow. 

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: theroofercoach.com/ruby.          

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/. Use promo code “DAVE50” to get 50% off your first month’s service.

In this episode of The Roofer Show, Dave Sullivan sits down with Brian Huff, the guy behind Modern Roofing Group in Denver and Littleton, CO. Brian dives into his story of how he got into the roofing world and even started his own business right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic! He discusses how crucial it is to build a solid reputation and tackle financial hurdles, and how mastermind groups can be a game-changer for contractors. They chat about how Brian uses CRM systems to make things run smoother, keep up with follow-ups, and improve how they interact with customers. Plus, Brian shares some cool marketing strategies and why keeping an eye on ROI is so important. This episode is packed with great tips for contractors looking to grow their business and boost customer service, so tune in!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Importance of having a reliable Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system for roofing contractors
• Brian Huff's journey into the roofing industry and his experiences working for various companies
• Challenges of starting a roofing business during the COVID-19 pandemic with limited financial resources
• Significance of maintaining a strong reputation in a competitive market
• Value of networking and being part of a mastermind group for contractors
• Innovative strategies for business growth through technology and automation
• Lead generation techniques and the importance of quality leads over quantity
• Tracking return on investment (ROI) for marketing strategies and adapting to regional market conditions
• Use of automation in managing customer interactions and streamlining operations
• Importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the roofing industry for sustained success

Resources:

Connect with Brian Huff and Modern Roofing Group!

Modern Roofing Group, 

Call Brian! (720) 334-3449

Check out this episode on our Youtube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow" or use this link - https://youtu.be/N7F2wJVbfwk

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow. 

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: theroofercoach.com/ruby.          

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/. Use promo code “DAVE50” to get 50% off your first month’s service.

In this solo episode of "The Roofer Show," host Dave Sullivan discusses his "Roofing Business Success Audit," a handy self-assessment tool specifically designed for roofing contractors. Dave breaks down why it’s way more important to focus on things like profitability, cash flow, and how your business is set up, rather than just chasing more sales. He walks you through seven key areas: personal finance, business leadership, financial management, operations, metrics, marketing, and work-life balance, and shares practical tips and resources along the way. He also encourages contractors to download the audit from his website so they can identify their strengths and areas where they might need assistance, ultimately building a more profitable, sustainable, and balanced roofing business.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Importance of conducting a tailored business audit for roofing contractors
• Focus on profitability and cash flow over sales volume
• Key areas for assessment in the Roofing Business Success Audit
• Building a strong personal financial foundation for business success
• Effective business structure and leadership for sustainable growth
• Financial management practices for running a business by the numbers
• Importance of efficient operations and production for customer satisfaction
• Tracking key performance indicators and metrics for profitability
• Balancing business operations with personal life to avoid burnout
• Strategies for effective marketing, lead generation, and sales processes

Resources:

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: theroofershow.com/ruby.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)

Today, host Dave Sullivan speaks with Emily May, the owner of M&M Roofing in Texas. Emily opens up about her inspiring journey, how she went from working as an ICU nurse to becoming a roofing entrepreneur. She discusses what it was like to acquire and grow an existing company, the hurdles she faced in breaking into the industry, and why educating customers is so important to her.

Emily also shares how she’s built a strong team and found ways to balance work and life. She emphasizes the need for strategic, sustainable growth, creative branding, and consistently prioritizing quality and integrity. Her story is packed with practical advice for contractors who want to grow their businesses while staying true to their values and supporting their teams.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Transition from nursing to roofing entrepreneurship
• Acquisition of an existing roofing company through seller financing
• Importance of marketing, branding, and technology in the roofing industry
• Strategies for business growth and expansion
• Challenges of hiring, training, and retaining quality employees
• Emphasis on customer education and transparency in roofing sales
• The role of networking and learning from industry peers
• Balancing work-life commitments and setting boundaries
• Importance of building a strong company culture and team investment
• Insights on maintaining quality and integrity in business practices

Resources:

Connect with Emily May

M&M Roofing

Get in touch with M&M Roofing.

M&M Roofing YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Connect with Dave

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: theroofershow.com/ruby.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)

Today, Dave Sullivan and Philip Siegel dive into the tricky topic of finding skilled workers in the roofing world. Philip is a labor attorney who has been in the construction law field for 27 years, and he shares valuable insights on the legal hurdles roofing contractors face, especially when it comes to immigration laws and those pesky I-9 audits. He points out that I-9 audits are on the rise with the current administration, so staying compliant is more important than ever! They also emphasize the importance of contractors conducting their own self-audits and maintaining their records in good order to avoid potential legal issues. Tune in to hear more!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Challenges of finding qualified labor in the roofing industry
• Legal implications of immigration laws for roofing contractors
• Importance of I-9 audits and compliance requirements
• Increased enforcement of immigration laws and I-9 audits under the current administration
• Misclassification of workers and its legal consequences
• Liability concerns for contractors hiring subcontractors with undocumented workers
• Need for proactive measures and self-audits to ensure compliance
• Record retention rules for I-9 forms
• Importance of coaching and mentoring for contractors
• Strategies for maintaining accountability and focus in business development

Resources:

Connect with Philip Siegel

Philip’s Website, Email Philip

Call Philip! (404) 469-9197

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: theroofershow.com/ruby.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)

Getting paid faster is something every contractor wants. Today’s construction market brings unique obstacles, and legal help is more important than ever. Join us to learn the steps you need to take to make sure you are getting paid for your work in 2022.

Alex Barthet is a trained mechanical engineer who is now a board-certified construction lawyer in the Miami area. His firm was started by his father about 30 years ago, and they now have a team of 30 lawyers who only focus on construction. Alex has many educational outreach resources available to help those in the construction industry, one of those being his weekly podcast, The Lien Zone.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• An overview of Alex’s career and the help he offers to the construction industry
• The biggest issues Alex sees right now for his clients
• How price escalation contracts are affecting contractors in today’s market
• Why it’s beneficial to have a lawyer review every contract
• An overview of the FREE tools Alex provides for contractors (See Resources)
• Alex’s advice about specific issues for roofing contractors working for a subcontractor
• How to get paid as a subcontractor
• Why the unequivocal right to stop work is the most significant issue that should be in every contract
• Why you have to enforce the lien laws in your state to secure your right to get paid
• Key provisions to have in place for each job
• Advice from Alex about insurance:  “ONLY accept a certificate of insurance from the broker, not from the subcontractor himself.”
• What to do when you are ready to sue
• What Alex has learned: “The cost in legal fees and the time it takes to litigate a case have very little to do with the strength of your case and how right you are. It has everything to do with how difficult and unreasonable the other side and their lawyer are.”
• Why arbitration is a better and faster solution in today’s world than litigation

Resources:

Connect with Alex and find his podcast:  www.thelienzone.com

Email Alex:  [email protected]

Check out Alex’s FREE tools: www.ContractDetective.com

www.MakeMeConditional.com

www.CalcULien.com

Mentioned in this episode for state-by-state lien guidelines: SunRay Construction Solutions

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: theroofershow.com/ruby.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)

In this episode of "The Roofer Show," host Dave Sullivan sits down with Aaron Hockel from Alta Vista Strategic Partners to discuss the significant challenges roofing contractors are currently facing. They delve into topics such as why fewer homeowners are interested in roof replacements, how rising interest rates are making things more challenging, and what increased competition means for everyone in the industry.

Aaron offers some practical advice on how contractors can adapt, such as stepping up their digital marketing efforts, branching out into new services, and ensuring their online presence stands out. Dave also emphasizes the importance of responding to leads promptly and being proactive in reaching out to potential customers.

Tune in to hear helpful resources for contractors and how consistent marketing and staying flexible are key to keeping your business growing, even as the market changes.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Current challenges facing roofing contractors
• Decreased homeowner interest in roof replacements
• Impact of rising interest rates on project initiation
• Increased competition from financially robust companies
• Importance of adapting marketing strategies to changing market dynamics
• Role of SEO and online presence in lead generation
• Influence of AI tools like ChatGPT on consumer behavior
• Necessity of diversifying review platforms for better visibility
• Strategies for proactive lead follow-up and networking
• Importance of consistent effort and staying informed about industry changes

Resources:

Connect with Aaron Hockel and AltaVista: Website, Email, and LinkedIn 

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors:  theroofershow.com/ruby

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: theroofershow.com/ruby.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)

In today’s episode, Dave Sullivan chats with Michael Stone, the author of Markup and Profit, about why so many roofing contractors run into trouble, or even go out of business. They discuss the importance of thoroughly understanding your financial statements, pricing your jobs accurately, and maintaining healthy profit margins. Michael also shares eight red flags that can signal your business is in trouble, like not paying your bills on time or working for free as the owner. The big takeaway? Spot financial problems early, continue learning, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or utilize the available resources. That’s how you build a roofing business that lasts and actually makes money. Tune in to hear more!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Challenges faced by roofing contractors in business management
• Importance of understanding financial statements and job costs
• Common reasons for contractor business failures
• The significance of accurate pricing and markup strategies
• The role of overhead costs in determining profitability
• Marketing and lead generation as critical components for success
• The necessity of effective bookkeeping and financial oversight
• Warning signs indicating potential business failure
• The value of continuous improvement and education in business practices
• Resources available for contractors to enhance their financial acumen and operational efficiency

Resources:

Find out about Michael’s course, Making the Numbers Work in Construction  Markup And Profit or call Michael at 360-335-1100

Markup and Profit by Michael C. Stone

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: ruby.com/roofershow.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)

In this episode of "The Roofer Show," host Dave Sullivan interviews Jon Starry, owner of Steadfast Roofing in Tampa Bay, FL. Jon shares his journey from IT to roofing, highlighting the company’s rapid growth, the importance of in-house crews for consistent quality, and leveraging technology like CRM systems and virtual assistants. He discusses effective lead generation, job costing, and building a strong company culture. Jon also offers practical advice on cash flow management, sales incentives, and continuous learning, providing valuable insights for contractors aiming to grow and improve their roofing businesses. Tune in to hear more!

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Transition from IT to the roofing industry
• Importance of customer service in business growth
• Lead generation strategies and techniques
• Building a strong online presence and utilizing SEO
• Significance of having a robust CRM system
• Managing cash flow and financial planning
• Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) for marketing effectiveness
• Creating a positive company culture to retain talent
• Implementing effective project management and communication strategies
• Emphasizing quality control and consistency in work standards

Resources:

Steadfast Roofing

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: ruby.com/roofershow.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)

Marketing is a massive issue for most contractors, especially when business slows down. Questions about marketing are common and frequent in contractor Facebook groups and mastermind groups. The goal is to acquire customers in the most efficient way possible, but how do we accomplish that? Dave and John are joined by two friends who have gold nuggets of wisdom to share, along with practical tips to upgrade your marketing strategy. Join us to learn more!

Emily May is the owner of M&M Roofing, a commercial and residential roofing company in Lufkin, TX. Crystal Williams is the Marketing Strategist at Lemon Seed Marketing, also in TX. Emily has seen big successes at M&M Roofing because of her work with Crystal on all aspects of her marketing strategy. Emily and Crystal join the show to share their best tips to make the most of your branding and marketing strategies.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

●  An overview of Emily’s work (as a nurse who bought a roofing company!) and why she reached out to Crystal for brand and marketing help

●  The benefits of a good mastermind group include the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded people and learn from them

●  A look at Crystal’s role as a branding and marketing partner for contractors

●  John’s most significant lesson learned about marketing: “Trust your marketing person–and let them do their thing.”

●  Crystal’s philosophy of marketing—and how it has worked for Emily’s company

●  Outperforming your competitors is easier than you think!

●  “Be operationally prepared to book EVERY lead!”

●  Your standard operational procedure should be to react and respond immediately to every lead.

●  Every marketing plan should be curated for YOUR business.

●  Is your three-legged stool wobbly? Learn three strategies to grow your business: operational excellence, pricing, and marketing.

●  Questions to answer about your brand, opportunities to gather leads, CRM, sales process, digital footprint, and more

●  Emily’s testimony about marketing success at M&M Roofing

●  The marketing piece influences the sales piece of your business.

●  Emily’s perspective on what’s working and what’s not working in marketing

●  Meet “Roofus,” the armadillo mascot for M&M Roofing

Resources:

M&M Roofing

Check out this episode on our YouTube channel at @DaveSullivanRooferShow or use this link - https://www.youtube.com/@DaveSullivanRooferShow

Be sure to subscribe, like, and comment!

Set up a FREE strategy call with Dave and get a few tips on how you can improve your business: https://davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-call.

Interested in learning more about our 1-on-1 coaching, mastermind groups, or fractional CFO services? Email me or send me a text at (510) 612-1450.

No Plan? No problem. Download our FREE 1-Page Business Plan For Roofing Contractors: https://theroofershow.com/plan

The Roofer Show’s Vetted Sponsors

Automate your follow-up process and close more sales with ProLine. Get started for FREE at https://useproline.com/?via=roofercoach. Use promo code DAVE50 for $50 off your first month’s service!

Have RUBY answer your phones and tee up the sale by leaving a great first impression. Use this link to get up to $150 off your first month’s service: ruby.com/roofershow.

SMA Support Services fills a need by empowering contractors to simplify and optimize their operational processes with virtual assistant services. Explore what a virtual assistant can do for your contracting business. Let SMA do the hiring, training, and onboarding. Check out SMAsupport.us (Tell them Dave sent you.)