As a contractor, running your business efficiently isn't just about delivering excellent work—it's about avoiding costly mistakes that can derail your success. Today, we're breaking down two deadly mistakes that contractors often make when it comes to leads, marketing, and client retention. These pitfalls don’t just cost you money; they can make or break your reputation.
We sat down with Chris Lawan from Footbridge Media to talk about these issues. Together, we’ll show you how to steer clear of these common traps, boost your bottom line, and set your business up for long-term growth.
Mistake 1: Not Immediately Responding to Leads
Leads are the lifeblood of any contractor's business. Yet, many contractors let potential clients slip through the cracks by not answering phone calls, emails, or texts quickly enough.
Why This Matters:
In today’s fast-paced world, customers won’t wait for you. If you don’t respond immediately, they’ll move on to the next contractor on their list. Every missed call is potentially lost revenue—whether it’s a $250 driveway cleaning or a $50,000 golf course contract.
Real-Life Example:
Chris shared a story about a contractor who missed a call from a golf course looking to replace their previous vendor. The contractor didn’t answer the phone and lost out on what could have been a five-figure job—possibly even more with repeat business.
Pro Tip:
If you’re too busy to answer calls, invest in a call team. Services are affordable and scalable to your business size. Answering leads promptly ensures that all your marketing efforts—Google ads, referrals, etc.—aren’t wasted.
Mistake 2: Being Unwilling to Start Imperfectly
The second major mistake contractors make is hesitating to market their business because they feel they aren’t “good enough” at it yet.
The Mindset Shift:
Nobody starts as an expert. You have to be willing to suck before you’re good. Whether it’s posting imperfect photos of your work, writing a clunky blog post, or launching your first website, the key is to start.
Why It’s Important:
Your first attempts at marketing might not be perfect, but consistent effort builds momentum. Over time, you’ll refine your skills and develop a system that works for your business.
Chris’s Advice:
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Take pictures of your work—even if they aren’t perfect.
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Post on social media regularly.
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Start a website, even if you’re new to the industry.
Think of every effort as a step closer to mastery. Six months from now, you’ll be amazed at how far you’ve come.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these two mistakes—delayed lead response and hesitating to start—will make a dramatic difference in your business. Every call you answer and every imperfect step you take towards improving your marketing brings you closer to more leads, more revenue, and more freedom.
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, connect with Footbridge Media. Mention “Lean and Mean” for an exclusive discount—saving $600 a year on your website package.
Start now. Not tomorrow, not next week—now. Success is waiting for those who answer the call and put in the work.
Additional Resources
✅ Recommended Class: If you’re looking to build a strong foundation in softwashing, don’t miss the SESW Softwash 101 Class. This class is perfect for new and experienced contractors alike, offering actionable insights and strategies to grow your business.
✅ Want to stop losing leads and start growing your business? Reach out to Footbridge Media today. Mention “Lean and Mean” to claim your special deal.
🛠 Don’t miss our next free event at Southeast Softwash—network, learn, and level up your business!
Stay tuned for more tips, and remember—answer the phone, start the work, and watch your business thrive.
