Episode Overview
Matt DiBara’s family history in the construction industry runs deep. He eventually took over the DiBara Masonry family business from his father and sought to make major technological changes – especially in the hiring process.
He identified a significant challenge a few years ago that turned into an opportunity to start a new company, The Contractor Consultants, which finds and retains qualified people for construction companies–his and others.
DiBara’s entrepreneurial journey dug up pro-level tips on generating candidate demand, the hiring process, how to vet people quickly and retain the best talent.
Construction employees can be transient.
“[The hiring] process starts with generating candidate demand,” DiBara says.
It’s not uncommon for candidates to go through an interview process, accept a job offer, then take that offer to get it matched or upped by another employer and never show up for the job.
The Contractor Consultants bases its approach on a philosophy of treating employee candidates like customers.
“There’s a lot of power and understanding of how to make yourself look better and position against some of your weaknesses,” DiBara says.
For example, a company may not be able to offer the highest salary, but it could have a comprehensive benefits package or a desirable, educational onboarding process.
When employees are hired, DiBara says the next crucial step is retaining them. He recommends two check-ins within the first 30 days and a 90-day benchmark where an employee is eligible for a raise.
“Honest and open communication with frequent check-ins, making sure you have a really good onboarding checklist, are key,” he says.
Matt DiBara recently joined ServiceTitan’s Jackie Aubel on the “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast, which included DiBara’s thoughts on:
[06:54] The integration of technology
[09:28] What inspired Matt to start The Contractor Consultants
[12:43] Matt’s tips for hiring good and qualified people
[20:49] Speed to lead - treating candidates like customers
[28:37] The importance of talent retention
To hear more stories from the trades, subscribe to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, or anywhere you get podcasts.
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