In episode 79 of The Subcontractors Blueprint podcast, host Jacob Austin is talking about aiming to secure work in a competitive market. Jacob tackles common bidding challenges, stressing the importance of crafting compelling bids that emphasise unique value propositions. He covers key topics such as writing effective bids by tailoring them to client needs and showcasing competitive advantages. Additionally, he discusses identifying and pricing risks through thorough risk assessments to prevent underbidding. Jacob also highlights the significance of tracking material prices and labor rates to stay updated on market conditions for accurate pricing. Furthermore, he advises using past experiences by leveraging data from previous projects to inform future bids and emphasises leveraging niche expertise to highlight specialised skills for a competitive edge.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Challenges faced by subcontractors when bidding for projects
• Importance of writing effective and tailored bids
• Utilising niche expertise to gain a competitive edge
• Leveraging past project experiences to improve bid accuracy
• The significance of showcasing unique value propositions in bids
• Identifying and accurately pricing project risks

BEST MOMENTS:

"Winning a project isn't just about one job; it's about building relationships with main contractors and their project managers."

"Consider how each project can build your reputation, bring you more expertise, and help you strengthen your market position."

"Develop a standard tender checklist that should cover everything from reviewing the main contract conditions to the spec, the scope, and the program."

"Using past experience to inform your bids is vital; if you're not analysing that to refine your future bids, you're missing out on a huge learning opportunity."

"Bidding isn't about winning at any cost; it's about winning profitably and sustainably."

Link to the Cost Reporting Episode Mentioned in this Episode

Jacob is on a mission to help the 1 million SME contractors working within the construction industry. If you've taken something of value from this episode, please share the podcast with someone you know, and pass the value on.

HOST BIO: Meet Jacob Austin, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor with a rich background at construction industry giants Balfour Beatty, Kier, and Vistry Group. With extensive involvement in education, health, and residential projects spanning various scales, from £1000s to £100M in concurrent developments, Jacob brings a unique perspective. Having collaborated with numerous small businesses, he's now committed to sharing his expertise to drive their success. Join Jacob on his podcast, where he blends his profound insights and personable approach to offer guidance, industry secrets, and inspirational stories.

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-austin/

Instagram - www.instagram.com/qs.zone/

www.qs.zone/all-links

In episode 78 of The Subcontractors Blueprint podcast, host Jacob Austin is speaks about the rising importance of sustainability clauses and environmental requirements in the construction industry. Jacob highlights the necessity for subcontractors to adapt their business models to meet these evolving demands while maintaining profitability. He discusses the implications of sustainability obligations in contracts, the benefits and challenges of implementing eco-friendly practices, and proactive strategies for subcontractors to address sustainability. By embracing sustainable practices, subcontractors can enhance their marketability, build stronger client relationships, and contribute to a more sustainable future in construction.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Importance of sustainability in the construction industry
• Transition from optional to essential sustainability practices
• Compliance requirements for subcontractors regarding eco-friendly materials
• Proactive strategies for subcontractors to implement sustainability
• Challenges associated with adopting eco-friendly materials
• Opportunities for subcontractors to innovate and differentiate in a competitive market

BEST MOMENTS:

"If you want to keep winning lucrative contracts, particularly for government or large commercial organisations, then you need to tackle and address these green obligations head on."

"The tricky part is ensuring the cost for complying with those requirements is in your price. If not, you could face unexpected expenses."

"Implementing green measures often forces you to optimise your own processes, be that reducing materials or thinking about lean construction techniques which can boost your internal efficiency."

"Sometimes eco friendly materials have longer lead. In times, maybe they're not manufactured as often, or they come from smaller, more specialised suppliers."

"You might look at sustainability as a burden, but if you approach it in a strategic fashion, it can be a powerful tool for you to differentiate yourself in a competitive marketplace."

Jacob is on a mission to help the 1 million SME contractors working within the construction industry. If you've taken something of value from this episode, please share the podcast with someone you know, and pass the value on.

HOST BIO: Meet Jacob Austin, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor with a rich background at construction industry giants Balfour Beatty, Kier, and Vistry Group. With extensive involvement in education, health, and residential projects spanning various scales, from £1000s to £100M in concurrent developments, Jacob brings a unique perspective. Having collaborated with numerous small businesses, he's now committed to sharing his expertise to drive their success. Join Jacob on his podcast, where he blends his profound insights and personable approach to offer guidance, industry secrets, and inspirational stories.

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-austin/

Instagram - www.instagram.com/qs.zone/

www.qs.zone/all-links

In episode 77 of The Subcontractors Blueprint podcast, host Jacob Austin is talking about the pivotal role of effective communication in the construction industry. Clear communication is essential for subcontractors, impacting relationships, project success, and the ability to secure repeat work. He discusses key communication tools such as RFIs, site instructions, and daily diaries, highlighting their importance in managing risks and ensuring clarity. Jacob also offers practical advice on maintaining professionalism, fostering a collaborative environment, and addressing issues proactively. This episode aims to equip subcontractors with strategies to enhance their communication skills, ultimately leading to better project outcomes and stronger contractor relationships.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Importance of effective communication in the construction industry.
• Tools and practices for effective communication.
• Strategies for maintaining professionalism in communication.
• Fostering a culture of openness and respect within project teams.
• Proactive communication and planning to anticipate project needs.

BEST MOMENTS:

"Communicating effectively can save you more time, money, and stress than most pieces of plant and equipment on site."

"Being the organised subcontractor who always communicates clearly goes a long way to help you secure repeat work."

"A well-structured communication system will reduce confusion and potentially friction between you and other trades or the main contractor."

"Nothing can kill your time and morale on a project like a well-toned paper war or chain of email tennis."

"The defects liability or the rectification period can be the point that makes or breaks the client's perception of a contractor."

Jacob is on a mission to help the 1 million SME contractors working within the construction industry. If you've taken something of value from this episode, please share the podcast with someone you know, and pass the value on.

HOST BIO: Meet Jacob Austin, a Chartered Quantity Surveyor with a rich background at construction industry giants Balfour Beatty, Kier, and Vistry Group. With extensive involvement in education, health, and residential projects spanning various scales, from £1000s to £100M in concurrent developments, Jacob brings a unique perspective. Having collaborated with numerous small businesses, he's now committed to sharing his expertise to drive their success. Join Jacob on his podcast, where he blends his profound insights and personable approach to offer guidance, industry secrets, and inspirational stories.

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-austin/

Instagram - www.instagram.com/qs.zone/

www.qs.zone/all-links