TCF1122: The Truth About Starting a Trade Business in 2026

⏱️ 10:49 🎤 Tom Reber, Dakota

AUDIO EPISODE

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The Essential Starting Plan

Tom introduces the core steps for starting a contracting business, focusing on practical, real-world advice.
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What Services to Offer

Define your niche by identifying what you're good at, enjoy, and what is profitable in the market.
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Financial Planning & Pricing

Understand your financial needs, determine accurate pricing, and establish a sales process to ensure profitability.
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Tracking Leads & Daily Activities

Implement a CRM for lead management and plan your daily schedule to work towards specific goals.
0:47

Protect Your Business

Ensure you have proper insurance, permits, licensing, and an appropriate business entity to safeguard against risks.
2:06

How to Get Paid

Set up a business bank account and credit card processing to efficiently collect payments.
3:02

Promote Your Business Relentlessly

Prioritize marketing and self-promotion to generate leads and build a sustainable brand beyond word-of-mouth.
3:42

Your Unique Differentiator

Identify what makes your business unique to stand out from the competition and attract clients.

Speakers

Tom Reber

Host

Dakota

Host

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Clearly define your services by focusing on what you enjoy, excel at, and what is profitable.

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Develop a comprehensive financial plan, including knowing your overhead and how much to charge for services.

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Implement a customer relationship management (CRM) system from day one to track leads and customer information.

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Obtain necessary insurance, permits, and licenses, and choose the appropriate business entity (e.g., LLC) to protect yourself.

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Establish clear payment methods, including a business bank account and credit card processing, before starting operations.

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Actively promote your business daily, utilizing social media and networking, rather than solely relying on word-of-mouth.

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Identify your unique selling proposition to differentiate your business from competitors.

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