Episodes
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In the pursuit of wealth and success, it is easy to become engrossed in conventional wisdom and the pressure to comply with industry standards. True success, on the other hand, is frequently characterized by your ability to stand out rather than fit in. Long-term success is based on a strong blend of competence and authenticity. The world is hungry for people who are genuinely skilled and capable, and if you can consistently deliver on your promises, you can carve out a distinct place for yourself, even if your approach is unconventional. Today, we are joined by Eric Jorgenson to talk about how to get rich without getting lucky.
Eric is the CEO of Scribe Media, the largest Professional Publisher. Scribe helps entrepreneurs, executives, and experts write, publish, and market their books. Eric is the author of The Almanack of Naval Ravikant, A Guide to Wealth and Happiness, and The Anthology of Balaji. He has sold over 1 million copies. He is also an investor in dozens of deep-tech startups through Rolling Fun. Eric writes at ejorgenson.com and hosts the podcast, Smart Friends. His blog has educated and entertained more than one million readers since 2014. He is on a quest to create—and eat—the perfect sandwich. Eric’s next project coming in 2025 is The Book of Elon Musk.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[05:27] The importance of identifying and reflecting on the principles that guide your life.
[07:40] The difference between seeking wealth versus seeking status.
[11:15] The broader definition of wealth.
[15:17] The impact of mindset: optimism vs. pessimism.
[20:49] The importance of complementary skills in building successful partnerships.
[24:48] The definition of accountability.
[30:13] The types of leverage.
[33:59] The importance of leverage in business and the need to attract the right people and resources.
[40:21] The importance of delegating tasks.
[43:55] The value of customer experience and effective communication.
[19:51] Competence and authenticity.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Focus on creating lasting value, not just seeking external validation.
Diversify your wealth by developing skills, influence, and the ability to be self-reliant.
Surround yourself with optimistic, solution-oriented people who believe in progress and improvement.
Recognize and leverage your strengths while seeking out partnerships with those whose skills complement yours.
Focus on building leverage in multiple areas.
Focus on tasks that only you can do and delegate the rest.
Go beyond basic service and focus on providing an exceptional customer experience.
Embrace your unique style and authenticity, but make sure your competence backs it up.
RESOURCES
Connect with Eric Jorgenson
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/erjorgenson
Website - ejorgenson.com/
Instagram - instagram.com/erjorgenson/
Twitter - x.com/EricJorgenson
Goodreads - goodreads.com/author/show/4029970.Eric_Jorgenson
THE SHIFT
Imagine making the shift from building projects to truly leading people.
You’ve taken projects from start to finish—now it’s time to build a team of people who can do the same.
In construction, authentic leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and guiding people.
The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader is a no-BS, hands-on course I designed specifically for construction professionals ready to make that transition.
The Shift is all about mastering the skills that matter:
Direct, clear communication.
Handling tough conversations with confidence.
Guiding your team toward quick, practical solutions.
Setting the standard for high performance.
And let’s be honest—you’re busy.
That’s why I’ll also give you the tools to manage your time and energy efficiently so you can lead without getting overwhelmed.
This course combines a self-paced masterclass with highly practical materials to help you shift from managing projects to leading people.
Click the link to learn more about The Shift, including a detailed description, free bonuses, and testimonials from construction leaders like you who have already made the shift: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
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Creating a high-performance work culture necessitates a clear focus on individual contributions, skill development, and common goals. It also involves cultivating an inclusive workplace in which all employees, regardless of background or personal beliefs, can thrive. At the heart of such a culture is the recognition that success is driven by performance rather than equality of outcomes. A company must provide equal opportunity for all employees, encouraging them to bring their best efforts, abilities, and attitudes to the table. In this week’s solo episode, Eric discusses how to create and maintain a high-performance work culture.
Starting the conversation, Eric defines high-performing culture and explains the types of people who fit into that culture. According to him, you as a company owner need to find the types of people who possess high technical skills, strong people skills, high intensity & focus, are team-oriented, take initiative, and are accountable to build a high-performing culture. These are the types of people who do not fit into this category: paycheck picker-uppers, politically or religiously divisive individuals, and also people overly obsessed with work-life balance.
Furthermore, Eric explains how you can sustain this high-performing culture along with the following topics regarding building the culture: talent diversity, work-life balance, equality vs. equity, and lessons from successful companies like Netflix.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
03:10 What is a high-performance culture?
06:06 Eric explains the types of people who are in and are not in a high-performance culture.
07:40 The importance of collecting people who are better at people skills.
09:36 How a consistent attitude and willingness to collaborate will drive long-term success.
13:33 The three types of paycheck picker-uppers.
20:07 Professionalism and politics.
22:33 The importance of equality over equity in a high-performance culture.
26:00 The importance of talent diversity.
30:00 Balancing high performance with inclusivity and work-life balance.
31:10 Lessons from Netflix.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Focus on Profitability in Every Decision
Look for people with the right combination of skill, effort, and attitude (SEA).
Prioritize both technical and people skills.
Ensure high intensity with correct focus and strong team orientation.
Look for individuals who demonstrate initiative and continuous growth.
Encourage professionalism by prioritizing company goals over personal political beliefs.
THE SHIFT
Imagine making the shift from building projects to truly leading people.
You’ve taken projects from start to finish—now it’s time to build a team of people who can do the same.
In construction, authentic leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and guiding people.
The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader is a no-BS, hands-on course I designed specifically for construction professionals ready to make that transition.
The Shift is all about mastering the skills that matter:
Direct, clear communication.
Handling tough conversations with confidence.
Guiding your team toward quick, practical solutions.
Setting the standard for high performance.
And let’s be honest—you’re busy.
That’s why I’ll also give you the tools to manage your time and energy efficiently so you can lead without getting overwhelmed.
This course combines a self-paced masterclass with highly practical materials to help you shift from managing projects to leading people.
Click the link to learn more about The Shift, including a detailed description, free bonuses, and testimonials from construction leaders like you who have already made the shift: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
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Episodes manquant?
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Growth marketing is about navigating the noise, understanding what truly matters to your audience, and pushing the envelope to deliver meaningful, targeted experiences. For organizations hoping to succeed in today's fast-paced digital world, growth marketing is more crucial than ever. At its core, growth marketing is not only about recruiting new customers; it's about developing long-term relationships, harnessing data, and continuously improving your strategy.
Nichole Gunn is the Global Chief Marketing & Sales Officer at Extu, bringing over 20 years of marketing expertise in B2B sectors. With a passion for data-driven strategies and innovative leadership, she excels in demand generation, brand development, and customer experience. Across 3,500+ industry partners, Extu’s award-winning content marketing has consistently increased sales by 30%. She joined us today to talk about the importance of growth marketing.
Nichole starts the conversation by defining marketing and its five components: brand awareness, account-based marketing (ABM), demand generation, internal marketing, and sales enablement. Nichole then talks about strengthening relationships with current clients because successful marketing isn't just about acquiring new customers. According to her, by tracking and understanding their behaviors and needs, you can offer more personalized solutions that increase loyalty and are more cost-effective than seeking new clients. We then pay attention to the importance of celebrating both successes and learning moments within the team. Celebrate victories as a means of inspiring and bringing the group together. At the same time, encourage a culture of openness and growth by accepting failures as teaching moments that can help you avoid making the same mistakes again.
Further down in the conversation, we discuss the following areas regarding growth marketing: a good brand vs. a great brand, marketing and sales, key data metrics, targeted marketing strategies, education in marketing, digital presence in marketing, and more. We end today’s conversation with Nichole sharing the top three things every construction CEO should focus on in their marketing if they want to make progress.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[01.56] What is marketing?
[03.09] A good brand versus a great brand.
[05.39] Strengthening relationships with current clients.
[06.24] The distinction between marketing and sales.
[07.16] Leveraging data and customer insights to optimize marketing strategies.
[08.24] Celebrating wins and learning from mistakes.
[12.35] Key data metrics you can't afford to ignore.
[14.24] How to cut through the noise and engage high-value prospects.
[20.11] The power of education in marketing.
[22.43] Building a strong digital presence.
[25.44] The top three things every construction CEO should focus on when marketing.KEY TAEWAYS
Focus on understanding the needs and preferences of existing clients.
Instead of relying on gut feelings alone, use data to understand the customer journey.
Celebrate both successes and learning moments within your team.
Focus on building a strong organizational culture where employees are motivated to contribute to the greater good of the company and its community
Focus your marketing efforts on Account-Based Marketing (ABM) to target high-value prospects.
Prioritize education in your marketing strategy, using content like blogs and webinars to provide value to your audience.
THE SHIFT
Imagine making the shift from building projects to truly leading people.
You’ve taken projects from start to finish—now it’s time to build a team of people who can do the same.
In construction, authentic leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and guiding people.
The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader is a no-BS, hands-on course I designed specifically for construction professionals ready to make that transition.
The Shift is all about mastering the skills that matter:
Direct, clear communication.
Handling tough conversations with confidence.
Guiding your team toward quick, practical solutions.
Setting the standard for high performance.
And let’s be honest—you’re busy.
That’s why I’ll also give you the tools to manage your time and energy efficiently so you can lead without getting overwhelmed.
This course combines a self-paced masterclass with highly practical materials to help you shift from managing projects to leading people.
Click the link to learn more about The Shift, including a detailed description, free bonuses, and testimonials from construction leaders like you who have already made the shift: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/
RESOURCES
Connect with Nichole
Website - extu.com/about/leadership/
extu.com/
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/nichole-gunn/
linkedin.com/company/extu/
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
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What holds you back from starting your own business? The fear of failure? Pride? Or is it the shame? Whatever it is, it’s human nature. There will be a time in your life when desperation is the motive that drives you to start your own business. When that time comes, the seven essential truths of building a business that we discuss in today’s episode will be there to guide you.
In this episode, Eric explains why you must have a motivating factor before starting your own business. According to him, a powerful and deeply rooted reason for pursuing your business will help you endure the tough times and stay committed to your vision. Eric also comments on mastering the ability of influence. He explains that by being authentic, you'll attract customers, employees, and collaborators who believe in you and your vision because people tend to shy away from anything that feels fake or inauthentic. He also discusses the importance of balancing humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn, which not only helps you grow but also enables you to build a team that complements your skills, which is crucial for long-term success.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02.24] The motivating factor.
[04.00] Mastering the ability of influence.
[05.13] The balance of humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn.
[07.45] The role of competency and confidence.
[09.10] The support system.
[09.50] The role of luck in business.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Have a strong "why" when starting a business.
Master authenticity and influence in business.
Business success requires a balance of humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to learn.
Build your confidence through competence.
A solid support system is essential for overcoming the challenges of building a business.
Imagine making the shift from building projects to truly leading people.
You’ve taken projects from start to finish—now it’s time to build a team of people who can do the same.
In construction, authentic leadership goes beyond managing tasks; it’s about inspiring and guiding people.
The Shift: Move from Project Builder to People Leader is a no-BS, hands-on course I designed specifically for construction professionals ready to make that transition.
The Shift is all about mastering the skills that matter:
Direct, clear communication.
Handling tough conversations with confidence.
Guiding your team toward quick, practical solutions.
Setting the standard for high performance.
And let’s be honest—you’re busy.
That’s why I’ll also give you the tools to manage your time and energy efficiently so you can lead without getting overwhelmed.
This course combines a self-paced masterclass with highly practical materials to help you shift from managing projects to leading people.
Click the link to learn more about The Shift, including a detailed description, free bonuses, and testimonials from construction leaders like you who have already made the shift: https://theshift.constructiongenius.com/
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
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Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
In today’s dynamic work environment, meetings should be more than routine check-ins. They need to be strategic, focused, and outcome-driven. Well-structured meetings provide the groundwork to align every decision and discussion with the broader goals of the organization. These meetings are not about micromanaging work but ensuring that each project, conversation, and decision brings the company closer to its long-term goals, whether profitability, customer satisfaction, or brand reputation. In this week’s solo episode, Eric explains the importance of strategic meetings between project executives and project managers.
Starting the discussion, Eric talks about how to make meetings strategic, productive, and valuable saying that meetings should lead to clear decisions that improve the company's larger goals. This focus will make meetings more productive and ensure they contribute meaningfully to the bigger picture. Eric also suggests when, where, and how much time you should spend for a meeting. Effective meeting preparation is an important part of the process. Eric explains that effective meeting preparation requires more than just status updates. It demands a deeper analysis of how daily activities connect to larger organizational goals. He also walks us through what you should avoid discussing in meetings. He says effective strategic meetings focus on high-level alignment, not on micromanaging every task. While day-to-day details should be handled elsewhere, these meetings should center on discussing issues that impact the bigger picture, like client relationships or organizational strategy. Wrapping up the discussion, Eric clarifies what’s beyond the meetings. A great meeting doesn’t end when you walk out of the room. Project executives should follow up after one-on-ones by summarizing key takeaways, tying every priority back to the company's broader goals, and checking progress against those objectives.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02.20] Aligning meetings with broader organizational goals.
[03.00] When, where, and what time?
[03.31] What requires effective meeting preparation?
[05.22] Managing risks, resources, and performance for long-term success.
[06.30] What to discuss (and skip) in high-level project meetings.
[07.28] What’s beyond the meeting?
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Before any meeting, clarify the strategic objectives you want to achieve.
Focus on strategic alignment when preparing for meetings.
Ask the right strategic questions during one-on-ones with project managers.
Stay focused on strategic issues and avoid getting caught in the weeds of task-level updates.
Follow up effectively after strategic meetings.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
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Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
In today's fast-paced and frequently unpredictable workplace, effective leadership and teamwork necessitate a combination of adaptation, empathy, and collaboration. One of the most crucial lessons for leaders is to strike a balance between action and deliberate planning. This entails taking a step back, listening, gathering information before making a choice, and being willing to change course along the road. A commitment to working together, especially when frustrations are high, is crucial to successful problem-solving.
Doug Reitz brings over thirty years of experience in California’s construction industry, earning a respected reputation as both a seasoned builder and an influential thought leader. Beyond the billion-dollar projects his company has completed, Doug has made a lasting impact on the industry by sharing his expertise at events and workshops statewide. His focus on creating high-performing teams, cultivating resilient company cultures, and advancing industry best practices has inspired countless professionals.
We start the conversation with Doug explaining how to manage yourself in a business transition and the importance of having a support system, whether it's a close-knit team or a personal board of advisors. Doug then clarified the necessity of stepping back from controlling everything and adopting a more empowered leadership style that not only helps develop a more engaged and capable team but also enables leaders to focus on broader strategic goals rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day tasks. Further, he explains the value of the Listen, Plan, Build process as a tool for balanced decision-making and how this process encourages collaboration, bringing the team together and helping to align everyone’s efforts toward a common goal.
Further into the conversation, we discuss the following topics regarding successful problem-solving: the value of understanding the experiences of other people, taking slower and smaller steps, handling failures with an open mind, the power of consistency, the role of collaboration, emotional awareness, and sharing purpose in problem-solving.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[05.15] Managing yourself in a business transition.
[07.08] The need for adaptability and embracing unpredictability.
[11.55] Letting go of the urge to control every detail and allowing others to take ownership.
[16.39] Listen, plan, build tool.
[22.28] The importance of understanding other people’s experiences.
[23.55] The downside of modern technology.
[28.48] Taking small and slower steps in construction.
[31.14] The role failure plays in success.
[32.30] Coping with failure.
[35.00] The power of consistency and relationship-building.
[38.05] The importance of collaboration, emotional awareness, and shared purpose in problem-solving.
[42.00] Doug’s book: A Blueprint for Constructing Success in Leadership and Life
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Build a support system when facing challenges.
Adapt and embrace unpredictability as a leader.
Step back and empower your team as a leader.
Use the listen, plan, build approach.
Understand the power of collaboration and communication.
Develop empathy and curiosity as a leader.
RESOURCES
Connect with Doug
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/doug-reitz/
Website - dougreitz.blog/
Instagram - instagram.com/be_a_builder_/
BUILD: A Blueprint for Constructing Success in Leadership and Life Paperback
by Doug Reitz
amazon.com/BUILD-Blueprint-Constructing-Success-Leadership/dp/B0DHHJJ5RDWhen Work Works: Cutting-Edge Solutions for the Contemporary Workplace
amazon.com/When-Work-Works-Cutting-Edge-Contemporary/dp/B0D7L356JCAre people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
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Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
The onboarding process is a critical phase that sets the tone for a new hire's experience and long-term organizational success. However, many businesses make the mistake of viewing onboarding as a one-time event rather than a continuous process. Common mistakes include assuming the job is complete once the new person is hired, failing to give systematic training and assistance, and failing to define clear performance objectives and goals. By overlooking these essential elements, organizations risk disengaging new hires, missing opportunities for integration, and eventually facing costly hiring mistakes.
In this week’s solo episode, Eric discusses the mistakes employers make in hiring. He starts the conversation with the first mistake: the hiring process as a one-time job. He explains how an active support system can help prevent disappointment and foster a positive start for both the new hire and the organization. Then he talks about having a structured onboarding process that can help the new employee acclimate to the organization and understand their role and responsibilities. Eric also explains how you can identify any issues early on and provide necessary support by asking about employees’ positive and negative experiences, clarity on their roles, and their ability to contribute. He also explains “The 90-day High-Performance Dashboard,” which is a structured framework designed to guide new hires during their initial three months in an organization.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[01.02] The mistake of thinking that the hiring process is over once they are on board.
[02.30] The structured onboarding process.
[05.00] Ensuring the new people are adjusting to the team and culture.
[05.46] The 90-day High-Performance Dashboard.
[08.00] The assessment of new hires.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Recognize that hiring a new employee is just the beginning of the process, not the end.
Implement a structured onboarding process for new hires.
Prioritize ongoing check-ins with new hires during their first month.
Assess a new hire's fit within the first 90 days.
Encourage open communication during the onboarding process.
You're relieved that you've made a new hire.
Now, don't let them slip through the cracks.
Use the 90 Day High-Performance Dashboard to get them up to speed and focused on how to succeed in their new role:
Get them clear on what's most important Ensure action and accountability Deepen your relationship with themClick this link and download the 90 Day High-Performance Dashboard: https://www.constructiongenius.com/high-performance-in-a-new-role
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
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Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
There are distinct opportunities and problems when working with a multicultural workforce, particularly on large projects. When teams come together from different backgrounds with different perspectives, talents, and experiences, harnessing this diversity can boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. However, successful collaboration necessitates a deliberate commitment to communication and trust-building. Setting common goals and encouraging open conversation is critical for managing the complications that result from different cultural norms and expectations.
Our guest today is Bisrat Degefa, CEO & Co-Founder of TruBuild, an AI-powered construction software designed to simplify construction projects. He is a construction expert with vast worldwide expertise. His career began in the UK on rail projects before transferring to Qatar for the Doha Metro Gold Line project. He later managed digital engineering in Kenya and worked on major projects in India, North America, and South America. His team at TrustBuild is pioneering breakthrough AI solutions to reinvent project planning and execution, moving the industry forward. He joined us today to talk about the art of managing large-scale projects in multicultural teams.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02:18] Bisrat’s journey through the construction industry.
[05:15] The willingness to adapt new technologies: the difference between the Middle East and the USA.
[08:22] Bisrat’s professional journey through Kenya, India, North America, Canada, and the Middle East.
[12:29] A journey influenced by specific goals and opportunities.
[16:28] Navigation through a shared mindset between different races, ethnicities, and cultures. [17:10] Consistent issues on large-scale projects.
[20:26] Federation from a design and project management perspective.
[25:04] Why the UK is best at handling conflict.
[27:08] Building trust in different cultures.
[30:40] Handling the failures of entrepreneurship.
[37:00] Addressing pain points of owners.KEY TAKEAWAYS
It’s important to foster a shared mindset in diverse teams.
Prioritize effective communication within large teams to minimize rework.
Ensure the communication of the potential impacts on quality and processes clearly to stakeholders.
Focus on establishing clear communication and aligning on common goals.
If a mistake is identified, act quickly to rectify it and communicate transparently with stakeholders about the issue.
RESOURCES
Connect with Bisrat
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bisrat-s-degefa/
Website - trubuild.io/
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Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
In a fast-paced world, a healthy work-life balance is essential for sustaining mental health and productivity. As people handle the responsibilities of their professional lives, they frequently face problems that can contribute to stress and burnout. It is crucial to surround oneself with supportive networks, embrace adaptability, and practice effective communication. Individuals who prioritize mental health and meaningful connections can live a more rewarding and balanced life, increasing their productivity in both personal and professional realms.
Bryce Wuori is an MPM, Asphalt Scientist, and the CEO at Pavewise, a web-based software to maximize productivity and improve project quality. He specializes in asphalt paving and believes that technology will be the key to future success in the infrastructure industry. Bryce has been acknowledged nationwide as an asphalt expert who is currently achieving significant success by incorporating project variables into asphalt pave quality methods to boost project income. He joined us today to talk about the entrepreneurial highs and lows in the construction industry.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02:27] Bryce's Construction Roots
[06:58] The two factors people need to be a good business person.
[10:08] Mental Health in Construction
[14:10] How communicating and sharing emotions help to reduce stress.
[19:22] Bryce’s first construction company.
[24:20] Understanding Pavewise and the technology behind it.
[26:34] Recognizing business opportunities
[30:30] The process of selling a business.
[33:02] Shifting into a venture-backed software company.
[35:40] Adjusting to a new role in software.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Surround Yourself with Learners
Master Communication
Accept What You Can't Control
Talk About Your Feelings
Choose the Right Partners
Embrace Guidance and Collaboration
RESOURCES
Connect with Bryce
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/bryce-w-89818b237/
Website - pavewisepro.com/
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Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
In this week’s episode of the “Construction Genius” podcast, we discuss productivity tips relevant to the construction industry based on Elon Musk’s 2018 email to Tesla employees.
Eric starts the discussion with what Elon Musk considers the blight of larger organizations: excessive meetings. He explains why it’s important only to hold large meetings if they provide value to all present. He then shows why it is acceptable to leave a meeting if you are not contributing. Prioritizing your time effectively is important in the workplace. Next, he talks about two major factors regarding communication in the workplace: avoiding acronyms and jargon and direct communication. Avoiding acronyms is important because not everybody has the knowledge of them that differs to specific fields, and it’s important to build a culture where team members can communicate directly across levels, bypassing unnecessary chains of command. The next important tip is to prioritize common sense in decision-making. Be willing to adapt or change outdated company rules when they no longer serve a purpose and encourage a culture where employees feel empowered to challenge and improve practices for better outcomes.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[01:57] Excessive Meetings - The blight of big organizations.
[02:58] Leaving a meeting if not adding value.
[03:29] Reduce using acronyms.
[04:20] Direct communication.
[06:04] Interdepartmental communication.
[07:02] Common sense as the guide.
[07:34] Build a culture open to change and make a better place for employees.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Only hold large meetings if they provide value to everyone involved.
If you’re not adding value to a meeting, it’s acceptable to leave.
Avoid acronyms and jargon to ensure everyone understands.
Promote a culture where team members can communicate directly across levels.
Ensure that communication flows freely between departments.
Be open to changing company rules that no longer make sense.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Kickass Business Meetings Ebook:
www.constructiongenius.com/kam -
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
An 831(b) plan, commonly known as captive or microcaptive insurance, is intended to help business owners reduce unfunded liabilities. SRA utilizes the 831(b) Tax Code to create tax-deferred risk mitigation and give business owners greater peace of mind.
Van Carlson is the founder and CEO of SRA 831(b), with 25 years of experience in the risk management industry. His goal is to continue SRA's upward growth while also developing novel products for the market. He joined us today to discuss how to fund uninsured risks without hurting cash flow.
We start the conversation with Van explaining the 831(b) risk management strategy along with the benefits businesses can gain from it. Then we talk about the significance of motivation in financial advice. Risk management should be the primary focus rather than merely seeking tax advantages to avoid potential scrutiny from the IRS. Van then kindly explains the common mistakes people make when setting up an 831(b), especially in the construction industry: proper ownership structure and motivation. We then pay attention to the challenges of exiting an 831(b) plan, where Van explains how they make a simple exiting process.
Further down to the conversation, we discuss the following topics regarding 831(B) risk management strategy: solvency testing, the services 831(b) provides and are unavailable through traditional insurance options, alternatives for 831(b), and the type of businesses that might not be suitable for an 831(b).
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02:13] What is 831(b) risk management strategy?
[04:43] What 831(b) provides for construction companies
[08:52] The importance of the motivations behind financial advice
[10:35] The common mistakes
[14:33] Solvency testing
[18:41] Challenges of exiting an 831(b) plan
[20:31] What unique services do 831(b) offer that aren’t available through conventional insurance options?
[26:23] The types of companies aren’t suitable for the 831(b)
[27:17] Alternative risk management strategies
[28.48] The red flags
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Evaluate Motivations
Clarify Ownership Structures
Prioritize Risk Management
Participate in Solvency Testing
Choose the Right Insurance Agent
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Van
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/vancarlson/
Website - 831b.com/ -
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) are a topic many construction companies consider when planning their business transitions. ESOPs are a proven strategy that allows owners to leverage the wealth they’ve built through hard work and dedication.
Kelly Finnell, J.D., CLU, AIF, is one of the nation’s premier Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) consultants. For over four decades, he has been assisting business owners in creating and implementing ESOPs. He has spent decades discussing ESOPs with corporations and groups, giving presentations at over 300 conferences and meetings in the United States and internationally in London and Sydney. His company, Executive Financial Services, is a national ESOP consulting firm founded in 1981 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee. Their diverse team of experienced professionals is focused on utilizing Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) for Ownership Succession Planning and possesses deep expertise in this specialized area. He joined us today to talk about the process of building a successful ESOP.
We start the conversation with Kelly explaining the biggest challenge in ESOPs: understanding what an ESOP is. Kelly further shares that business owners, especially in the construction industry, need to be patient and prepared for a steep learning curve. An ESOP serves both as a qualified retirement plan and as a liquidity strategy for current owners. Kelly then explains who would best fit ESOPS, saying that it is typically best suited for business owners seeking a gradual exit over five to eight years. For owners wanting to walk away and not look back, a third-party sale would be more appropriate. We then pay attention to the cultural transition that comes with an ESOP. Kelly shares that companies that prioritize maintaining their culture after a sale are ideal candidates for an employee stock ownership plan. Unlike third-party sales, which often lead to cultural shifts that can alienate both employees and customers, an ESOP facilitates an internal transition that helps preserve the existing culture.
Further into the conversation, we cover the following topics regarding building a successful foundation for ESOP: ESOP failures and how to avoid them, the initial steps of getting familiar with ESOP, how to address the challenges that come with active and inactive children in a family-owned business, how to navigate personal guarantees.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02.01] Understanding what an ESOP is.
[06.21] Risks to be aware of when building a foundation for ESOP.
[08.39] The standard time frame for exiting a company.
[10.50] The importance of effective communication when implementing an ESOP.
[15.15] How to keep employees engaged in the ESOP process during the early years?
[18.03] Cultural transition and ESOP.
[25.08] Avoiding ESOP failure.
[27.26] The first steps of getting familiar with ESOP.
[31.11] Retirement planning.
[33.48] Addressing challenges regarding active and inactive children in a family-owned business.
[38.17] Navigating personal guarantees.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Consider your desired level of involvement post-sale when choosing an exit strategy.
Effective communication and education are crucial when implementing an ESOP.
Celebrate and Educate
Prioritize Company Culture
Start with Education and Expert Guidance
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Kelly
LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/esopcoach/
Website - execfin.com/
Book: The ESOP Coach - Using ESOPs in Ownership Succession Planning
National Center for Employee Ownership
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Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
It’s a common misconception that pre-construction consists solely of estimating costs based on drawings and coordinating subcontractor bids. Pre-construction might begin with feasibility studies and initial concepts, which help determine what is financially viable. It comprises a wide range of tasks until building begins, with designs finalized and budgets secured. The pre-construction phase involves a large amount of work.
Today, we are joined by Steve Dell’Orto, the founder & CEO of ConCntric, a cloud-based construction software platform for pre-construction and construction cost estimating. With 26 years of experience in the construction industry, Steve is well-equipped to drive digital transformation in this field. He is dedicated to using his expertise to enhance innovation and technology in real estate and construction. Together with his team, Steve aims to make the built world more affordable, predictable, and sustainable, positioning them to significantly impact the future of the industry. He joined us today to discuss ways to maximize pre-construction success while also improving collaboration, affordability, and outcome certainty.
Steve starts the conversation by explaining what pre-construction is and how people mistakenly view pre-construction as merely estimating costs. Steve then kindly shares the importance of the alignment of all stakeholders around common objectives, saying that successful project delivery relies on effective communication and collaboration, ensuring that everyone understands the value being provided and works towards the shared goal of a high-quality outcome. We also talk about the role of technology in renovating the construction industry. By integrating workflows and automating procedures, you may improve communication, save time, and allow skilled workers to focus on their strengths. Collaboration and transparency in gathering ideas from many stakeholders can result in substantial advancements and innovation throughout the industry.
As we continue our conversation, we focus on the following aspects of the pre-construction process: the primary problem, the non-linear nature of pre-construction, risk mitigation prior to construction, the black-box approach, and the role of AI in the construction industry.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[01.56] Steve’s career journey at Clark Construction Group.
[05.12] What is pre-construction?
[08.07] Impact of the lack of financial commitment.
[12.31] The impact of a good pre-construction process.
[16.08] The importance of aligning all stakeholders around common objectives.
[20.52] Careful selection of partners and clear communication.
[23.40] The importance of leveraging technology to modernize the construction industry.
[27.00] Augmenting existing expertise.
[31.04] The main pain problem in the pre-construction process.
[36.15] How the non-linear nature of pre-construction influences data quality and decision-making.
[39.30] Mitigating risks before construction.
[42.07] The black-box approach.
[44.00] The difference between information and data.
[45.13] The role of AI in construction.
[48.32] The biggest shift in construction regarding technological application.
TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
Always put yourself in the client's shoes
Focus on the Total Cost of Ownership
Prioritize Transparency and Structure
Embrace Technology for Efficiency
Gradual Integration of Technology
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive coaching approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Steve
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/stevedellorto/
Website - concntric.com/
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Health is not something that can be achieved with mere thought. It takes patience, consistency, and the ability to figure out what’s good for you and be brave enough to adjust. Some may think achieving health is following some difficult daily routines, but in truth, it’s the continuation of the simplest things that will make you healthy eventually.
Kevin Dahlstrom is a husband, father, CMO, and climber. Raised in a small Texas town, Kevin navigated a challenging childhood before rising through the corporate ranks to become a Chief Marketing Officer at multiple public companies and a successful entrepreneur with several exits. Despite achieving financial success, Kevin found their work-life balance lacking and transitioned to a focus on health in their mid-40s. He now advocates for an 80% clean diet and emphasizes that health improvements come from consistent, small changes over time rather than quick fixes. His approach is informed by a lifetime of learning and personal experience, aiming to guide others toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Starting the conversation, Kevin shares his childhood and career journey along with the health habits he adapted to lead a fulfilling life. Out of all the exercises you can do to maintain health, walking is one of the best and most underrated of them all. Kevin kindly explains some of the impact walking has on creativity and changing brain chemicals. Kevin and Eric also discuss the importance of disconnecting when walking and allowing your mind to be free and focused. We then pay attention to the impacts of heavy weightlifting, which may lead to chronic injuries over time, especially for younger individuals who often focus on lifting large weights. Kevin then explains how you can use lighter loads with proper form can be more sustainable and still provide effective results.
We also talk about why alcohol is bad for maintaining your health. Kevin here explains that alcohol is a toxin that can significantly degrade performance and overall well-being. While occasional moderate drinking might be manageable, it generally impacts optimal performance and becomes more noticeable with age. Additionally, he explains how small habits, like regular alcohol consumption or eating ice cream frequently, can accumulate over time, leading to significant long-term effects on health. Kevin also talks about the limitations of mainstream healthcare, where they usually fail to address the root causes of chronic illnesses, making them worse over time. Further down to the conversation, we discussed the following topics related to maintaining health: food tracking, a good sleeping schedule, finding your community, and planning for retirement.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[04:19] Kevin’s story and his health habits.
[09:35] Baby steps for beginners.
[11:19] The benefits of walking.
[13.05] The importance of disconnecting during walking.
[19:22] The negative effects of heavy weight lifting.
[20:48] Walking carrying weight.
[25:58] Food, alcohol and health.
[33:15] The impact of avoiding decisions that will make life miserable.
[38:49] Why sleep is the absolute foundational pillar of maintaining health.
[43:43] Finding your tribe, retirement and health.
[52:09] Does all your wealth bring you joy?
[55:54] The true meaning of minimalism.
[59:39] Choosing your own path.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Consistency Over Intensity
Prioritize Health and Set Boundaries
Disconnect During Walks
Focus on Clean Eating
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Reduce Light and Screen Exposure
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Kevin
LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/kevind/
Website - camp4.wordpress.com/
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Are you looking to build an aesthetic workplace with a calm environment, pleasing background, and radiation of good vibes? Mass timber can bring that vision to life.
Today, our guest is Ricardo Brites, Director of Engineering & VDC at Mercer Mass Timber, a wood product manufacturing company in British Columbia. He is a committed structural engineer who is passionate about sustainability and innovation. He specializes in solid and mass timber structures. He brings a lot of scholarly rigor and real-world experience to every project. He holds a PhD in structural engineering from Universidade do Minho, Portugal. Join us as we dive into the world of mass timber and learn how mass timber can change the aesthetic of your workplace.
We start the conversation by comparing the cost of other materials to mass timber, where Ricardo explains how it depends on the area. Then Ricardo describes the benefits of using mass timber, including being much lighter than concrete, as fast to assemble as steel frames due to its prefabricated nature, and requiring a smaller installation crew. We then pay attention to the two biggest mistakes of mass timber: the high possibility of burning and moisture and the degradation that can happen to the wood.
In this phase, we talk about the reason for the low adaptation of mass timber in the USA and the role the technological revolution plays in that regard. We also talk about the aesthetic benefits of mass timber, such as a calm environment, a beautiful background, and the radiation of a good vibe. Furthermore, we dive into the limitations of mass timber and what the future will look like for Mercer Mass Timber.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[05.13] Cost of mass timber in comparison to other materials.
[07.36] Benefits of mass timber.
[10.03] Quality of mass timber in comparison to the quality of steel.
[11.06] The longevity of a wood panel.
[12.27] The biggest misconception about mass timber.
[15.13] Geographic variations and the usage of mass timber.
[16.19] The reasons for lower adaptation of mass timber in the USA than in other countries.
[21.15] Esthetic benefits of mass timber.
[22.15] Limitations of mass timber.
[24.13] Expanding mass timber.
[28.06] Mass timber in mainstream and commercial construction.
[28.47] Mercer mass timber.
TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
Be aware of the misconceptions about mass timber.
Geographic variations don’t affect the mass timer usage.
There’s a psychological effect to mass timber.
Explore Hybrid Solutions.
Mass Timber Increases Efficiency.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Ricardo
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/ricardobrites/
Website - mercermasstimber.com/
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Are you struggling with finding the desired outcome of your technical writing? You might’ve been overlooking some crucial details that make your writing doesn’t deliver the message to your audience properly.
Pam Hurley is the founder of Hurley Write, which provides customized writing and reviewing workshops for world-class companies. Pam started her career in higher education, teaching students in technical subjects who were frequently irritated by their "inability" to write. Pam wanted these gifted, intelligent kids to know they could write; they just lacked the necessary resources. With over 125 years of combined experience working with professionals in a number of areas, including energy, engineering, biotech/pharma, government, and aerospace, Hurley Write's team of experts is made up of seasoned writers, teachers, and writing coaches. Hurley Write contends that critical thinking and problem-solving skills are the cornerstones of excellent document writing, which extends far beyond syntax. Pam joined us today to talk about some strategies to achieve better readability and response from your technical writing.
We start the conversation with Pam defining technical writing and how writing strategies can solve the problem of writing. Pam then educates us on the importance of knowing the audience that you are writing for, along with the three types of readers: primary, secondary, and tertiary. We then talk about the role critical thinking plays in technical writing, along with how it helps to figure out the needs of your audience. We also hear Pam’s take on using generative AI for writing and why writing on your own is important as a skill.
In this phase of the conversation, Pam explains how assessing feedback can help you to improve the quality of your writing. Then we pay attention to the synchronization of headings and sub-headings of a writing and how you can use it to get the attention of the reader. Furthermore, Pam talks about finding the balance between what the writer wants and what the reader wants.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02.14] What is technical writing?
[03.08] Technical writing strategy.
[05.10] The importance of knowing your audience when writing.
[07.10] Structure of the documents.
[08.55] Critical thinking.
[11.13] The role of generative AI in writing.
[15.22] How to improve the quality of your writing.
[19.26] Headings and sub-headings.
[21.21] How to craft a sub-heading?
[20.20] Finding the balance between what you want and what the reader wants.
[25.53] PowerPoint presentations.
[28.11] SOP and process mapping.
[31.05] The first steps to get better at your technical writing.
TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
Know your audience.
A strategy that works for everyone might not work for you.
Give the employees the time and space to write.
Have the courage to try different things especially, if what you’ve been doing has no positive impact.
Look for keywords that portray the gist of your writing to create a sub-heading.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Pam Hurley
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/hurleywrite/
Website - hurleywrite.com/
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Family or business first? Have you ever wondered? There's no right or wrong answer for that. It depends on what people believe or how they've been taught to believe. While some people implement the family-first business, others believe in the business-first family. Both may seem right from different perspectives, but there's more to it than just being right or wrong.
In this week's episode, we've had the pleasure of having a conversation with another industry expert, specializing in family business advocacy. Rob Ferguson is the founder and president of Ferguson Alliance, a family business strategic advisory service. Having led middle-market family-owned businesses for more than ten years, he uses his qualifications as a Certified Exit Planning Advisor and NACD Board Leadership Fellowship to help CEOs and boards navigate generational changes. His goal is to modify the statistics so that family companies last longer. He believes that with the correct foundation in place, family businesses may build an infinite legacy. He joined us today to talk about the essential question for any family business: family needs or business priorities first.
Starting the conversation, Rob defines the two terms' family first business' and 'business first family' along with how they help business owners build their long-term strategy. If you choose the family-first business, then you are choosing a family member, whether they are qualified or not, and if you choose the business-first family, you put the right people in the right position. We then talk about the importance of deciding how a family member joins the business and what requirements they need to fulfill. It makes them understand that they have to earn it if they want to join the business. Rob also explains the procedure for firing a family member, especially if they are a shareholder.
In the next phase of the conversation, Rob kindly shares some crucial details on the essential elements of a succession plan, structuring a succession plan, and the transition of business ownership. Furthermore, Rob explains the advantage of tying family values into a business culture and how it helps to continue the legacy. We also hear Rob explain how he educates people from younger generations who become business owners.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[04.43] Family first business or business first family.
[08.30] How does the performance of a family member affect the non-family members in a business?
[09.28] The mentality shift.
[13.20] The importance of setting requirements.
[17.46] Finding the prime zone.
[22.23] Firing a family member.
[24.11] Structuring a succession plan.
[25.40] Essential elements of a succession plan.
[28.10] The transition of business ownership.
[34.15] Integrating family values into the business culture.
[37.01] Handling biases as a mediator.
[44.15] Educating young people who become business owners.
[47.11] Out of the shadow.
[51.33] Generational differences.
TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
Asking yourself 'Are you a family-first business or business-first family' is important as a business owner.
Set requirements that must be fulfilled to earn a position at your organization, especially for family members.
Find the prime zone in your business.
Keep the business ownership in your blood family.
Build a succession plan that will choose the best replacement as the next business owner.
Listen for intense. Not how it's being said, but what is being said.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Rob Ferguson
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/robertaferguson/
Website - ferguson-alliance.com/
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A leader is many things, but most importantly, a leader should be someone willing to take accountability, even if some things are out of their control. A great leader should have the ability to prove that actions speak louder than words.
In this week’s episode, we have the absolute pleasure of conversing with an exceptional author, keynote speaker, Pat Tilman Military Scholar, and founder of Loyalty Point Leadership, Patrick Nelson. He is an accomplished leader who served in the US Army as a paratrooper for nearly seven years and led soldiers on three combat missions. His military awards include the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart Medal. Patrick is an engaging facilitator who has conducted leadership development programs for a wide range of customers, including Fortune 500 companies and small enterprises from various industries. During one of his deployments, his failures as a leader resulted in one of his comrades being killed in combat. This life-changing experience led him on a quest to help others avoid making the same mistakes. Join us as we talk about how failure can lead you to be an exceptional leader.
Starting the conversation, Patrick kindly shares his childhood background and the reason behind his joining the US Army. Then he explains some of the misconceptions the world has about the people and culture in Iraq and Afghanistan, along with the reasons why sovereign countries that go into these countries repeat the same mistakes. We turn our attention to the ‘Pride Factor', where people don’t like being told that they are doing something wrong and how that affects the safety culture in construction.
It’s important that we develop relationships in the workplace because, in an industry like construction, where safety is a huge concern, there have to be people who care about your welfare. We talk about the value of developing a work culture where people care about the well-being of others. Furthermore, Patrick shares his knowledge on developing leadership skills along with some leadership lessons that he learned from the military that are applicable to construction.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02.40] Patrick’s childhood and the journey to the US military.
[05.12] Parachute training.
[09.06] The misconceptions that the world has regarding Afghanistan and Iraq.
[15.31] The sense of community.
[17.22] Ego and safety in construction.
[21.02] The reasons behind safety failures that are preventable.
[23.00] The importance of developing relationships in the workplace.
[26.15] Safety Stump Speech.
[31.22] Opioids addiction recovery.
[33.01] Leadership lessons from the military.
[36.40] Is leadership an innate skill or a developed skill?
[40.00] Forward-looking accountability.
[42.28] Accountability of a leader.
TIPS & TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
Actions speak louder than words.
Luck is not on our side all the time. You are going to run out of luck eventually.
Develop relationships with people who you are working with.
You have to be able to lead yourself first if you want people to follow you.
While we can all learn, grow, and acquire most of the qualities, not everyone is destined to be a great leader.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Patrick Nelson
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/patrick-nelson-b2964b1b/
Website - loyaltypointleadership.com/
Written by Patrick Nelson
Front-Line Leadership: How to Eliminate Complacency and Build All-In Engagement
amazon.com/Front-Line-Leadership-Complacency-All-Engagement/dp/1394240759
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Maintaining a healthy relationship takes hard work, no matter how personal or professional. It takes time and trust. To pass through the initial steps of building a relationship, you have to be patient and faithful.
In this week’s episode of the podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of conversing with another industry professional, Fawn Radmanich, a marketing professional working in professional services marketing specifically focused on engineering and construction over the last 25 years. Her passion and skills include working in teams to win multimillion- and billion-dollar design and construction projects, spotting opportunities for personal and corporate branding, and cultivating a sense of community and participation among employees. As a strategic marketing and communications specialist, she has participated in over 800 pursuit activities and diverse market sectors, including higher education, civic, theme park entertainment, aviation, data centers, seismic and historic renovations, sports, and many more. She joined us today to share her knowledge on how to secure your dream project by building relationships.
Starting the conversation, Fawn explains what pursuit marketing is, along with the reason why it is connected to building relationships. Fawn then explains how to choose the right people according to the needs of your client. We also pay attention to why stellar products or great proposals aren’t enough to win projects if you don’t possess relationships.
Figuring out the hidden motives of people is a challenge. In this phase of the conversation, Fawn explains how she looks at different aspects of people’s lives by using social media because people put a lot of information about themselves out there often. We then talk about how challenging it is to ask necessary questions sometimes, along with Fawn’s suggestion on how you can put those questions out there with ease. Furthermore, we listen to Fawn’s expertise on building a bridge between what you want to do and what your client wants you to do to make the project a win-win situation for both parties.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[03.29] What is pursuit marketing?
[05.05] Can you build or win it?
[09.52] Positioning people according to the needs of a project to build relationships.
[14.28] The importance of investing in relationships.
[16.45] Figuring out the objectives of the client.
[19.51] Uncovering hidden motives of people.
[24.56] The difference between business development and pursuit marketing.
[30.23] How to ask appropriate questions to get information.
[36.21] Finding a balance between the client's and your expectations for a project.
[39.31] Selecting the next best person.
[43.21] Thought leadership.
[44.23] Using social media to market conditioning.
TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
Understand the decision-makers of an organization.
Position the right people for the right job.
A stellar product or great proposal is not going to get you a job if you lack relationships.
Use social media as a source to learn about people.
Asking about past projects is one of the best ways to get information.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Fawn
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/fawnradmanich/
Website - stantec.com/en
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Being a leader is not just about the role, it's about the goal. The goal is to witness the growth process of those who work under you. A great leader knows when to be a coach and when to be in command, as both are necessary in the workplace.
This week’s episode features Jake Thompson. Jake is a leadership performance coach, keynote speaker, and author. Jake has spent more than a decade working with leaders and organizations worldwide on how to get better results for themselves and their teams. He has been featured in Forbes and has directly impacted over 80,000 ambitious leaders, including those with multiple AGC state chapters, BOLDT, Baker Concrete, MW Builders, and more. His motivational business workshops offer his listeners doable actions and useful tactics they can implement right away to improve performance and achieve better outcomes in their careers and personal lives. He joined us today to talk about how to shift leadership styles from commander to coach in construction.
We start the conversation with Jake defining leadership and why a leader should be someone who people are willing to follow because they have the best interest in people’s success. Jake then explains how the development of technologies helped people get a better idea of a healthy workplace and why the command and control style doesn’t work very well at present. We also talk about toxic personalities in the workplace and how one troublesome person can sink your work culture to the point where you cannot get it back up easily.
Asking good questions and listening carefully are key parts of good communication. Most people don’t have the initiative to ask good questions or the ability to stay focused on a conversation. In this part of the episode, Jake explains what you can do to ask good questions, along with the importance of asking follow-up questions. He also explains some tips that you can follow to stay focused in a conversation. Jake ends the conversation by sharing his idea of how a new leader could figure out if they are successful in their new role.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
[02.10] What is leadership?
[06.00] How technological development built the awareness of a healthy workplace environment.
[10.00] Command and control workplace environment.
[11.32] What causes the lack of flexibility as a leader?
[16.15] Protecting your workplace culture from toxic personalities.
[23.43] The structure of an effective coaching conversation.
[25.20] What initiates good questions?
[30.01] Asking natural questions.
[32.35] Improvement requires intentionality and time.
[34.22] What makes a good listener and how to stay focused on a conversation?
[40.06] The first 90 days of a newly promoted leader.
[43.33] A leader’s ability to watch people grow.
[47.11] Who is Jake?
TIPS AND TOOLS TO IMPLEMENT TODAY
A leader should be someone who genuinely has a great interest in the success of those who work under them.
A leader should have the ability to switch between command & control and coaching.
Leadership is a skill that needs to be taught.
Allowing troublesome people no matter how much of a high performer they are, will eventually sink your culture.
Uncomfortable questions typically lead to a stronger relationship through conversation.
Improvement requires intentionality.
Are people problems eroding your company's profits? Discover proven strategies to lead, strategize, and sell effectively, ensuring your projects stay profitable. Elevate your construction business by purchasing Construction Genius: Effective, Hands-On, Practical, Simple, No-BS Leadership, Strategy, Sales, and Marketing Advice for Construction Companies today and turn your people problems into profit!: https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Genius-Effective-Hands-Leadership/dp/B0BHTRDY1T/
Is an executive or leader in your company struggling? Reach out to Eric to discuss how his transformative executive approach can help. Schedule a 10 minute call with Eric today to learn more: 10minuteswitheric.youcanbook.me
RESOURCES
Connect with Jake
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/jakethompsonspeaks/
Instagram - instagram.com/jakethompsonspeaks/
Website - competeeveryday.com/
jakeathompson.com/
The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever
By Michael Bungay Stanier
amazon.com/Coaching-Habit-Less-Change-Forever/dp/0978440749
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