AI Is Lying, Customers Aren’t: Radical Transparency and Culture-Building with Eric Fortenberry

Understand your true costs: Many contractors underprice their services due to a lack of understanding of their financials and job costing. Implement rigorous job costing to ensure profitability.

Delegate effectively, don't DIY everything: To scale, you must build a team and delegate tasks. Focus on your strengths and hire experts for areas like bookkeeping where you may lack expertise or interest.

Define clear processes and SOPs: Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to clarify expectations for your team, improve efficiency, and ensure consistent project delivery.

Don't blindly trust AI: While AI is a powerful tool, it's not an 'easy button.' Always double and triple-check AI-generated information, as human judgment and expertise remain crucial for accuracy and liability.

Cultivate radical transparency: Be open with your customers and team about processes, financials, and expectations. This builds trust, attracts the right clients, and fosters a strong internal culture.

Prioritize customer experience and education: The modern customer is more informed. Position yourself as an educator and thought leader to build rapport and trust, leading to warmer leads and smoother projects.

Choose software partners wisely: When selecting project management software, consider the company's long-term vision and commitment to its users, especially in a market impacted by private equity buyouts.