NARI announced this past week that they are launching a new podcast program called NARI Radio. The site will offer a variety of business topics; everything from green remodeling to business fitness to sales strategies. The podcasts are free to view, and because everyone is busy these days, will only last about 10-12 minutes apiece. NARI is tapping the knowledge of three industry experts, Ron Cowgill, Mike Holmes, and John Gordon to host the programs.

NARI is an invaluable resource for homeowners and contractors alike. It was established 25 years ago and now has 58 chapters nationwide. Its mission “is to advance and promote the remodeling industry’s professionalism, product, and vital public purpose.”

NARI offers certification to show homeowners that your company adheres to their high ethical and professional standards. In addition to receiving a NARI certification, it helps to have the assistance of a referral resource such as CalFinder. These agencies help alleviate many of the fears and misconceptions homeowners have of contractors. You can learn more about becoming a member of NARI on their site. You don’t have to be a member to access their new educational resources. You can access their new radio feature by clicking the NARI Radio tab and then downloading the podcast.

Here are some of the suggestions they came up with, along with a few of our own.

1. Know where your money is going, the small stuff really adds-up. If you budget more efficiently, you can potentially cut costs and allow yourself more of a profit.
2. Try your hand at reducing the price of some of the insurance policies you have to carry. Shop around and try to negotiate better prices.
3. Contractors are suffering, but so are suppliers. When they send their sales people out to charm you, see if they are willing to negotiate lower prices.
4. Try to reduce waste by recycling materials and using those small pieces you might normally throw away.
5. Do more of the project yourself instead of subcontracting the work.
6. Workers’ compensation rates vary based upon the work being completed. Consider doing the more expensive jobs yourself, or consider hiring a less expensive subcontractor.
7. Target what projects net you the most profit, and pursue those over others if possible.
8. Discretely look for other jobs while on site, you never know how one job can lead to another.
9. Offer an incentive to your customers for repeat or referral business.
10. Treat your employees well. It costs money to rehire and retrain new employees.

A smart business plan is the key to surviving this economic crisis; take a few minutes when you get the chance to reevaluate your operation and look for ways to adapt to the current conditions.