How to Establish a Financially Healthy Construction Business

There is money in the bank.

• When each project is all said and done, you need to have made a profit after you have settled all of your expenses and paid yourself, that is “Money in the bank.”

• Subcontractors, vendors, employees, and bills are paid.

• You have savings and an emergency fund established and available.

You have a life outside of work.

• There is a margin for you to have personal hobbies and freedom.

• You will be able to do and be more than just your business.

You run your business, it doesn’t run you.

• You don’t always have to be there.

• If you need a vacation or day off, you can afford it

1. Define The Business

Why Are You In Business?

Take time to consider why you started your own business in the first place. Did you want more flexible hours, higher pay, and the ability to call the shots? Continually refocus yourself around why you started your business as you begin casting a vision for where you want to go.

5-Year Plan

What goals or markers do you want to reach over the next five years? Take some time to create more in-depth goals than just how much money you want to make. Consider your profit margin, work hours, time spent on the job vs. in the office, and other personal goals.

Core Values

Core values guide behaviors and decision-making. In your business, having clearly defined core values can bring a clear sense of purpose and provide a framework for actions and decisions, helping everyone to understand your goals and priorities.

2. Build A Plan

Creating a plan needs to be measurable and actionable. If you can’t mark it off a list, don’t add it.

Here are a few items to add to your plan that will help you on the right track: Set overhead goals Add markups to bids to cover your costs. What percentage is it for your business? Set a target profit margin for each project Create a budget Create an exit plan so you don’t have to work forever Set rules for when to invest vs. save

Add detail to your plan. Yes, it is going to change, but without a plan, you have no direction. The more markers you have, the more likely you will be to stay on track and own a financially healthy business.

3. Be Disciplined

Accountability and discipline are required to create a healthy business that is built to last. This means having a clear understanding of your finances, including your income and expenses, and making informed decisions based on that information.

Disciplines to consider: Be selective about the jobs, customers, and projects you take on. Focus on your ideal clientele or project type. Minimize overhead costs. Communicate value and worth to retain customers. Weigh the cost-benefit of investments such as new equipment or staff.

Accountability

A large portion of discipline is personal accountability. If you have a business partner or mentor, consider looping them into your business decisions. With another set of eyes, ears, and strategy directed toward your plans and visions, you are more likely to succeed.