When it comes to hiring a general contractor, you understand the importance of solid references and a proven track record. Have you considered how that commercial contractor delivers success to a variety of clients and projects? It takes a special combination of talent and expertise to bring the big jobs in on time and budget. These six skills of a general contractor are essential to the trade and solid indicators that you’re making the right hiring decision.
1. Strong Management Skills – Every large-scale job involves a wide variety of professionals and tradesmen who need to stay on the same project page. The ability to coordinate different teams is one of a general contractor’s most valuable skills. That aptitude for controlled oversight also helps keep schedules and budgets firmly on target.
2. The Ability to Communicate – A contractor has to do more than explain job details to the client. Listening is just as important so that both parties can better understand options and manage expectations. Clear, honest communication can head off problems and make it easier to deal with contingencies that do come up.
3. Solid Network Development – Bringing together the best teams for the job depends on developing solid relationships across the industry. An established contractor leverages past successes with trusted vendors and subcontractors into a collaboration that ensures quality materials, fair costs and reliable workmanship.
4. Computer and Software Expertise – Today’s commercial construction projects often start on digital drawing boards. Sophisticated software handles everything from rendering and modeling to tracking on-site job progress. A contractor who recognizes the value of emerging technology puts it to use on a daily basis. The application of emerging technologies helps ensure efficiency and control costs.
5. Problem-Solving Prowess – The success of industrial and commercial building projects depends on effectively addressing and solving problems as they arise. An experienced general contractor always protects the client’s best interests with well-developed action plans. A professional approach to problem-solving keeps the job on track without sacrificing time, quality or money.
6. Navigation Know-How – From obtaining building permits to satisfying inspection processes, a commercial contractor has to know how to deal with local, state and federal agencies. On-site safety planning, ADA compliance and uniform construction codes are just a few examples of critical regulations that require expert navigation.
Whether you’re remodeling a restaurant or building a manufacturing site, hiring a general contractor is one of the most important decisions you make. We believe that the more you know, the better prepared you are to hire with confidence. CBF Contracting always stands ready to deliver our premier commercial construction skills to your job. Contact us today, and let us bring more than 40 years of industry experience to your next project.
