On this episode of The Successful Contractor, host Bob Houchin speaks with Carol and Kerry Adkins, the dynamic couple behind OnTime Service. Learn how they transformed their company from a company doing new construction electrical work into a multi-trade, residential services $27 million powerhouse with multiple locations and service offerings across Alabama. With guidance from CertainPath, formerly Success Group International (SGI), Carol and Kerry embraced proven systems and strategies that propelled their business to new heights. They discuss how CertainPath's resources and community support gave them the confidence and framework to grow sustainably, even during challenging times. For contractors and business owners looking to scale, this conversation is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable takeaways.
Tune in to learn:
· Hiring and Cultivating Exceptional Managers: How Carol and Kerry identified, trained, and promoted the right people from within to drive OnTime’s multi-location success.
· Secrets to Managing Managers for Consistency Across Locations: Proven methods they use to ensure every manager upholds the same standards, drives profitability, and maintains the company culture.
· Mastering Multi-Trade Success: How they added HVAC and plumbing to their electrical services and managed the complexities of rapid growth.
· Overcoming Expansion Hurdles: From recruitment challenges to staying profitable in new markets—real talk on the toughest obstacles they faced and how they conquered them.
· Navigating Private Equity with Purpose: Why the Adkins’ chose to partner with private equity, how they evaluated potential partners, and what it takes to find the right cultural fit.
· A People-First Approach: Why Carol and Kerry believe hiring the right people and building a strong culture was the backbone of their success.
· Proven Marketing Tactics that Worked Wonders: Hear about their breakthrough with cable TV ads, chamber partnerships, and community visibility that set them apart.
· Maintaining Profit Margins with Inventory and Cost Controls: Real-world tactics for managing inventory and reducing costs across a growing business.
· Growth Without Losing Control: Strategies for expanding locations, adding trades, and building a scalable business without sacrificing quality or control.
· Planning for Succession and Legacy: How they prepared their business for the future, built a lasting culture, and strengthened their team with CertainPath’s support and insights.
If you’re looking for inspiration and guidance on how to take your business from startup to industry leader, you won’t want to miss this episode!
Show Notes
The Successful Contractor Podcast is a part of the CertainPath family. CertainPath builds successful home service businesses—and has for 25 years. We do it by providing contractors with a proven path to success, professional coaching, software solutions, and a member community of 1,100+ strong. Doubling your sales, with a 20% net profit, and an inspiring company culture is ALL possible. Let us show you the way. With CertainPath, Success is Made Certain. Visit www.mycertainpath.com for more information.
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Thank you to our sponsors:
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