Surviving the First Job: Managing New Crews

We continue our series on vendor management by focusing on how to effectively manage crews from their first job through establishing a long-term relationship.

• Horror stories about bad crews illustrate what can go wrong without proper management
• Red flags during interviews include claiming to "do everything" while green flags include transparency about specialized skills
• Requesting photos of previous work helps assess quality and attention to detail
• Building a "bullpen" of vetted crews before you need them prevents desperate hiring decisions
• Investor properties provide ideal low-risk testing grounds for new crews
• First job management requires thorough pre-job walkthroughs covering logistics and expectations
• Being on-site at the beginning and end of each day helps verify punctuality, productivity, and professionalism
• Decision to coach versus fire depends on attitude, ability to learn, and skill level
• Setting clear expectations about daily progress and cleanup prevents common problems
• Good communication and establishing partnership mentality creates successful long-term relationships

Join us next week for the final part of our series where we'll cover how to properly fire a crew and protect yourself legally if things go wrong. Also, sign up now for our January retreat and receive three free coaching sessions to help close out your 2025 year.

Join us January 11–13 in Nashville for the Chart the Course 2026 Planning Retreat. Sign up now and get three free coaching sessions before the event to finish 2025 strong and hit 2026 with a clear game plan. At the retreat, you’ll tackle systems, hiring, marketing, and leadership alongside ambitious contractors, leaving with a blueprint for growth. Spots are limited—visit prostruct360.com to learn more!

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