The worst part of playing dodgeball in third grade, ironically, was not getting hammered with the ball. It was when the gym teacher assigned two captains to make up the teams. You desperately tried to make eye contact with them, calling out and begging them to pick you right away. No one wanted to be the kid chosen last; it hurts to be ignored. (Of course, this hypothetical scenario would never have happened to me—my supreme dodgeball skills made me a legend…at least in my own mind.) 

I bring this up because it reminds me that being ignored can sting—even as an adult. And this can happen when a younger carpenter starts out, hoping to work with more experienced, highly-recommended subcontractors, but can’t get a response. I talked about this on NS Builders Podcast. And I shared some ideas on how you can get the big boys to play ball. 

GET TO KNOW PEOPLE

A smart builder knows that when you surround yourself with highly motivated, skilled people, you’ll end up achieving the best results. So, of course, you want to get to know and work with the best subcontractors out there. But, getting a sub of that caliber to join forces with you on a project may be quite a challenge. You may find yourself getting frustrated when they refuse to call you back. Consider a few valid reasons why they may seemingly be ignoring you and how to handle it before giving up.  

First, they don’t know you and may not have heard of your company. Second, they may have plenty of work and are booked solid for the next six months and have no interest in taking on more work. Perhaps they are just incredibly busy and keep forgetting to return your call. Who knows? The point is this: Don’t assume the worst. Instead, be proactive in your approach. 

When you call and leave a message, keep it brief, but explain exactly why you are calling. Let them know you are a carpenter or GC and interested in working with really quality subs. Talk about your quality-driven goals and why you reached out to them specifically. (Reference their expertise that you’ve seen on their website or IG.) If they can see you understand the value of higher-end, detail-oriented work, they will be more likely to respond. The first step to building a relationship is finding common ground.   

You can also go back to your source. Let’s say your drywall person tells you about a top-notch painter. So, you leave a message for the painter. Maybe you try sending a text. But you get no response. At this point, go back to your drywall contact—“Hey, you recommended this painter; I reached out and haven’t heard back. Do you think you could poke them for me?” The painter may take the call from someone they already know. 

Be persistent—a voicemail, a text, an email—whatever it takes to make contact. Keep your introduction short and sweet. Acknowledge how valuable their time is, but ask for just a five-minute conversation to introduce yourself, your company, and why you think you would be a good fit working together. 

Your level of effort will depend on your level of desire to work with that person. So don’t give up!

GET TO KNOW PRODUCTS

I find it overwhelming to keep up to date with every new product that hits the market. So, instead of wasting time checking out every new product or technology, NS Builders focuses on what we will realistically use by asking questions: Will this product or technology cut down on labor or materials? Make installation easier? Will the software promote efficiency? Is the cost of a superior product worth it? 

This calls for research. We reach out to our contacts and ask them if they’ve used the product and what they think of it. I’ve also reached out to the manufacturer and asked specific questions. For example, I had concerns about potential issues with an exterior insulation. I contacted the manufacturer, they addressed my concerns, and told me about another builder who achieved excellent results with his method of installation. They recommended I reach out to him, and I did just that. Had a great conversation that alleviated my anxiety about using this new product.  

You must be willing to spend some time learning about new products or technology. Sure, it might be easier to just go with what you are already familiar with. But that mindset can keep you in a rut. NS Builders is always on the lookout for intelligent innovation—building a better product focusing on thoughtful design.

 It’s time to discover what NS Builders can intentionally craft for you! Contact us today to get started on your custom dream home. Together, we can make it happen. 

—Nick Schiffer