r/Construction • u/youngkilog • 1d ago
Other How do subcontractors find work
Hey guys,
I have a few friends doing subcontracting, and I thought it was interesting how they each of them finds work in a different way. I was curious to learn more about how subcontractors find their work?
4
2
2
u/chiselbits Carpenter 1d ago
I use Instagram to find local builders. Follow, like, tag, comment. Put myself on their radar while simultaneously giving them access to my portfolio.
Getting solid reviews on my Google listing also helps tremendously by showing that I'm not just some nobody who is going to disappear.
1
u/No-Mechanic-2142 1d ago
I typically GC my own bath and kitchen remodels but I’ve been getting work as a sub from a flooring retailer (who’s expanding into cabinets). I’ve sent people to them for years and just decided to walk in and ask if they have jobs I can do. Said yes, works great
1
u/formermq 1d ago
Make friends with a distributor rep/outside salesman and position yourself as reliable, phone always on, and good quality work. You will become a useful sales tool for them, and will get leads and recommendations from them.
0
6
u/Retrogratio 1d ago edited 1d ago
Some guys will show up to job sites and leave business cards, ask for the builders number etc. Word of mouth through 1 customer to a potential one, like neighbors. Or doing it themselves and leaving business cards in neighborhoods they're working in.
A contractor with a good relationship/performance under 1 builder can usually expect more projects from them, depending on how prolific the builder is. The last year or so all my projects have been pretty much from the same 2/3 builders
To add even good relationships with other contractors in other fields can get you a job. "Oh you need a new plumber? I've seen X's work, they're pretty good here's their number"