You know your trade, you’re an expert in the field, and you’re ready to be  self-employed . Lucky for you there is continuing demand for contractors, and you have the drive and personality to be successful.

Now what? Although we all define  success  differently, in business,  success  correlates to a solid reputation, prosperity, and business sustainability. To achieve success, it’s important to continue honing your skill set…and not just your trade skills.

Awareness of your communication and time management as well as continuing to learn and find balance in your life can help you build a successful career as an independent contractor. Here’s how:

1. Communication

When working in a trade oriented field it is easy to focus directly on the work at hand. However, all relationships require a strong foundation in honest and respectful communication. Doing so builds trust, and customers are more likely to refer business to a contractor they trust.  Further, you’re more likely to maintain good employees and other business relationships, and it always helps to have friends in the field.

2. Time Management

Have you ever bitten off more than you can chew? That idiom exists for a reason, and everyone who has experienced this knows how much stress it can cause. In fact, promising more than you can produce in a realistic amount of time can ruin customer trust and give you a bad reputation. Also, hurrying to complete a job can cause costly mistakes that you will kick yourself for later. Of course, set-backs occur, but keeping that line of communication open with the customer then helps manage that situation.

3. Continue Learning

Just because you are licensed with years of experience doesn’t mean you can sit back and call it good. Technology, environmental laws, and rules and regulations change. By continuing to learn about your field you will be up-to-date with cutting edge information and tools to best serve your customers. You can also take this opportunity to learn other skill sets you may be lacking, such as marketing or graphic design.

4. Find Balance

Humans don’t work well under constant stress, and independent contractors experience a lot of stress. It’s important to find balance in your life, and there are many creative ways you can do so. Volunteer with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, mentor upcoming tradesmen through local trade schools or community colleges, join a local sporting team – the possibilities are endless. Finding a hobby or creative outlet you enjoy will help manage your stress, which in turn helps maintain positive communication with customers, improve time management, and make learning easier.

These four skill sets are equally important to your hard-earned trade skills. By keeping these in mind you’re certain to walk the path of success!

Contact us  for more information on how we can you achieve your professional goals!