When a potential client comes to you looking for someone to handle their home improvement projects, it can feel much like you’re on a job interview — because technically, you are. Having a professional portfolio is one of the best ways for a general contractor to land projects and run a successful business. So, what are clients looking for in a contractor? And, how can a general contractor grow their portfolio to land those jobs and “nail” the interview? We’ve got the answers!
Highlight Your Background
If someone did a background check of your past works, what would it show? That your insurance is up-to-date? That you’ve attained all the proper licenses? Your education and experience? Having credentials front and center is one of the best ways for a general contractor to grow their portfolio. On the contrary, if you’ve made some poor business decisions in the past, it’s better to be honest. Explain the situation and the steps you’ve taken to correct it, instead of them finding out online. This presents a face of honesty and trustworthiness that may turn around a bad review.
Provide Testimonials
Encourage your client’s to write a review, either a personal one, or on your website. Save these testimonials and add them to your portfolio. Customer reviews are like gold when it comes to selling yourself to future clients. Your portfolio should act like an advertisement, showing all potential clients that YOU are the perfect option to handle their home improvement projects.
Showcase Your Work
You do things most others can’t and your portfolio should reflect that. Keep the work you highlight diverse, as not everyone is looking for the same thing when it comes to their renovation. Use high-quality photos, along with as many details about the projects as you can, including:
- Objectives
- Challenges
- Special skills
- Times where deadlines were met or finished early
- Projects where you came in under budget
Awards and Certificates
Has your community recognized you or your business by presenting an award? Share this in your portfolio. A business the community has officially recognized goes a long way when it comes to earning the trust of a client. If you don’t have any badges or awards, consider becoming more involved in your community. Take charge as your own PR and get your name out there. Networking is an amazing tool while growing a successful reputation as the RIGHT general contractor for anyone’s renovation. You may even decide to join your local business associations for an opportunity to earn some recognition.
Offer Contractor Financing
One of the best ways for a general contractor to grow their portfolio is the ability to offer the best contractor financing options. Partner with HFS Financial and help your customers with the home improvement financing and construction financing options they need for all their projects. There’s no extra work on your part. Simply give them our information, and once they fill out our 60-seconds application, we’ll do the rest! Contact us today at 1-800-254-9560. “You Dream It, We Finance It.”