How to Build the Best Team Ever | Hardscape Growth EP48

📅 July 12, 2022 ⏱️ 1:05:09 🎤 Alex Cadieux, Tony Zambito

Chapters

Click to jump to section

0:00

Introduction & Background

Host Alex Cadieux introduces Tony Zambito, who shares his unique background as a third-generation hardscaper and the early days of his business.
0:36

Hiring Challenges & Solutions

Tony discusses the difficulties of hiring in the hardscaping industry and the decision to bring his brother, John, into a full-time sales role.
1:00

Delegation & Systemization

Tony explains the system for delegating sales and design tasks to his brother, allowing him to focus on on-site project execution and client interaction.
1:45

Family Business Dynamics

Tony delves into the complexities of working with family, sharing past experiences and current strategies for successful collaboration with his brothers.
2:50

Hiring for Attitude, Not Experience

Tony outlines his hiring philosophy, prioritizing willingness to learn and positive attitude over prior experience, and describes his training approach for new recruits.
4:08

Practical Hiring Tips

Tony offers specific advice on what to look for in potential hires, including red flags and the importance of location for team logistics.
4:44

Team Morale & Conflict Management

Tony emphasizes the significance of team morale, proactive conflict resolution, and fostering a respectful work environment to retain employees.
5:03

Adapting Goals & Continuous Learning

Tony shares his personal philosophy on continuous learning, adapting business goals, and the importance of seeking advice from others in the industry.
6:29

Managing a Large Crew

Tony explains his strategy for efficiently managing a large crew on complex projects by dividing tasks and teams, allowing for specialization and quicker project completion.
9:27

Winter Challenges & Employee Retention

Tony addresses the challenge of employee retention during the off-season, detailing how he maintains connection with his team and offers incentives beyond hourly wages.

Speakers

Alex Cadieux

Host — tuckerblock

Tony Zambito

Zamco Group

Key Takeaways

✦

Prioritize hiring for attitude and willingness to learn over prior experience; you can teach skills, but not attitude.

✦

Develop clear roles and responsibilities within your team, especially in family businesses, to avoid conflict and ensure efficient operations.

✦

Implement a structured training process that builds confidence, taking small steps and providing consistent encouragement to new team members.

✦

Be proactive in managing team morale and conflict; address issues immediately to prevent escalation and maintain a positive work environment.

✦

Offer incentives beyond just hourly wages, such as medical/dental benefits or investment plans, to foster long-term career growth and retain skilled employees.

✦

Adapt your business goals and be open to new ideas; continuous learning and seeking advice from others are crucial for sustained growth.

✦

Strategically divide large projects into smaller, manageable tasks with dedicated sub-crews to maintain efficiency and prevent team members from feeling overwhelmed.

Want the full experience?

Join the Inner Circle for full access to every episode, AI-powered insights, personalized coaching, and a network of industry leaders.

Join Inner Circle →

← Hardscaper High Five S02 EP00 | Hardscape Growth Podcast

Costs Change, So Should Your Estimates | Hardscape Growth EP47 →