Managing a portfolio of buildings – each with their own unique requirements – is that much easier when you have a trusted network of contractors. It’s also key to securing new business. It’s therefore crucial to prioritise the building and continuous nurturing of your relationship with existing service providers, as well as your abilities to secure promising associates.
As the saying goes, ‘It’s not what you know, it’s who you know’.
As such, facilitating a mutually-beneficial relationship with your go-to contractors is an investment in your career.
Here are our tips on how you can strengthen your network:
1. Widen your network via a listing in a reputable industry directory
Increase your networking opportunities by listing yourself in relevant property maintenance directories (both online and offline). If you’ve successfully completed a project with a contractor, ask them to list you on their website, and return the favour. Finally, reach out to your existing network and offer to write a testimonial and ask that they do the same.
2. Set aside time to network
Strata managers who enjoy the benefits of a network of contractors dedicate time to growing and nurturing it. Valuable relationships aren’t born from a mere handshake and exchange of business cards. They’re the culmination of effort put into forging an authentic connection. Schedule this vital activity into your calendar and treat it as you would a meeting with a potential client or trusted advisor.
3. View your relationships with industry peers as partnerships
The most valuable connections are built on equal amounts of give and take. They’re based on mutual respect, shared values, and compromise. Much like a romantic union, working relationships require patience, clear and frequent communication, and genuine interest in the wellbeing of each other. Bear this in mind when connecting with both existing and potential contacts.
4. Strive to be the kind of person you’d want to work with
You’re more likely to be loyal to an associate who’s pleasant to do business with. Your contractors are too. An affable, easy-going relationship can make a difficult job bearable, and importantly, foster a sense of loyalty between the two parties. Contractors are less likely to terminate their services if they have a history of positive working experiences with you and your team.
5. Be vocal about your appreciation
Let your contractors know that you value them. Give praise when it’s due, convey only constructive criticism, and be open to their feedback too. If you haven’t touched base in a while, reach out and thank them for a job well done.
Without a reliable network of contractors, you risk hiring a service provider who’s unreliable, or worse, renders services of poor quality. The negative ramifications of working with a ‘cowboy’ contractor are vast, costly, and incredibly damaging to your reputation.
If you're looking to offer the best strata management services and drive constant improvements in your operations, the Strata Manager’s Best Practice Guide to Painted Properties tells you everything to know about managing your painted strata properties for ultimate success.
Higgins Coatings is Australia and New Zealand’s premier commercial painting contractor with over 65 years of experience in providing a cost-effective painting service and tailored maintenance solution. As the preferred painting contractor for the Strata Community Association (SCA), we help strata managers plan their painting requirements and execute them with minimal disruption to residents. Contact us for a consultation.