Roadmap for Small and Emerging Contractors in San Diego County
 

 

The Roadmap Overview
The following are basic steps for an individual in the Greater San Diego area to follow to become a successful small and emerging business, specializing in construction. It is assumed that the individual is just starting in business. However, it should be useful to those already in business but still “small and emerging.” Those who are further along can modify the steps somewhat, but likely will have missed some important early steps and should strongly consider revisiting early considerations (e.g. working capital, joining an association, training, etc.) to shore up steps skipped—or correct bad business posture or

practices—and better insure success.  


The Roadmap Steps are divided into four groups:

Ground FloorLook Before You Leap
Step 1. Become proficient in a trade
Step 2.
Accumulate sufficient working capital
Step 3. Read construction periodicals
Step 4. Study and pass the CSLB license exams

Second Floor—Make the Right Moves
Step 5. Develop a business plan
Step 6. Create your company
Step 7. Get certified
Step 8. Learn to use the internet
Step 9.
Get registered with agencies you may want to bid
Step 10.
Consider participating in a “Bid Plan Room”
Step 11. Develop a written safety plan and manual

Third Floor—Assemble Your Business Team
Step 12.
Decide if you will be a union or merit shop company
Step 13. Get a mentor or business counselor
Step 14. Join a construction association of your peers
Step 15. Get an accountant with experience
Step 16. Sign up for insurance
Step 17. Get a banker who believes in you
Step 18. Get a construction attorney you can trust
Step 19. Start talking to bonding agents
Step 20. Keep getting more training

Top Floor—Find Your Customers
Step 21. Find opportunities to network directly with your customers
Step 22. Develop relationships with suppliers and vendors
Step 23. Sign up for the City of San Diego Minor Construction Program
Step 24. Develop your own corporate identity
Step 25. Market, market, market!


 

 

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