How To Build Strong Relationships With Subcontractors & Suppliers

We all need a helping hand from time to time, be that with a speedy turnaround time for materials or extra hands on a month-long construction site project. All trade businesses need to establish a strong relationship with subcontractors and suppliers - it sets you up for success all year round. It can also lead to quicker turnaround times and improved quality of service, making you look great to your customers. So, here’s a list of ways you can nurture your business relationships for long-term growth and profitability. 

Communication

Establish Expectations Early - ensure everyone working with you or for you understands the scope of work, what is needed from them and the standards they need to meet for your clients/project.

Regular Updates - keep all those working with you updated as and when you receive new clients, information or other news that could impact them. This could be via text, email, call or a trade business management app.

Open Channels - offer a seamless way to contact you as the business decision-maker. Your team may have concerns or questions for you so allowing them a space to quickly get in touch is key.

Prompt Response Time - if and when issues arise, do not sit around. It’s important to face this head-on to avoid more disruption or bigger issues down the line.

Trust & Responsibility

Transparency - while some of the team may be more senior in their role or have more impact on-site, treat each individual with the same transparency around project details and timelines.

Commitments - showing your team respect and commitment will get you the same in return. Always ensure schedules, information, materials, and payments are accessible and on time.

Treatment - always treat your subcontractors the same way you would any other employee or stakeholder. Remember to show appreciation for the work they are doing for you.

Quality Over Quantity

Relationships - when choosing your subcontractors each year, always prioritise the quality of work over how cheap their services are. You need a subcontractor you can rely on and who will deliver the same results time and time again.

Support - never just cut ties with a subcontractor if something comes up or something goes wrong. Help them navigate this time the same way you would want help if the shoe was on the other foot.

Fairness - it’s likely that you will need to negotiate with a subcontractor at some point. While this is part of the process, always ensure you are fair with your negotiating and never compromise on quality.

Technology

Centralised Hub - integration of a trade business management software can streamline your communications, scheduling, admin and more. This reduces misunderstandings and issues between you and your subcontractors.

Performance Tracking - with tools and the features available through this technology, you can monitor the work of your team and provide constructive feedback if necessary.

Simply Processes - with an app like Powered Now, you can seamlessly manage your invoicing, quoting, scheduling, certificates, tracking, and more so everyone remains on the same page at all times. This also makes you appear more professional and credible to clients.

Moving On

Stay In Touch - never cut ties completely once a project or contract ends. Maintaining contact allows you to bring them on board again in the future should you need them.

Acknowledge - show appreciation and respect at all times throughout the partnership; this fosters a collaborative relationship and leads to long-term success.

Referrals - if this person happens to be incredible for your business, offer them referrals to others you may know in the industry. This helps them get their name out there as a reliable and credible source.

Building strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers is not just about getting the best price or fastest delivery; it’s about fostering a strong relationship that provides long-term success for your business and theirs. Through trust building, open communication, the right tools, transparency, and the other key factors mentioned in this blog, you can create a list of trade business professionals willing to work with you for years to come.