If you know PDI Drywall, you’ve probably heard our slogan: “The only thing we build better than walls is relationships.” I’m proud of this slogan— not just because it’s catchy, but because it perfectly captures what makes PDI successful. One short sentence reflects our philosophy, ethos, and unique selling point as a drywall and painting company.
Building strong relationships is at the core of everything we do. From clients to project managers to subcontractors, every connection matters and deserves the same care and attention as the work itself.
To build these relationships, we prioritize networking. In our field, it’s one of the most effective strategies for expanding your team, deepening relationships, and advancing your business.
Yet, many people underestimate the importance of networking in construction. In this competitive industry, forging genuine connections sets you apart from all those offering similar services, giving you a competitive edge.
In this post, I’ll share my journey with networking and how you can leverage this invaluable tool to enhance your business.
My Journey with Networking in Construction
I started my company at 22 when women were practically non-existent in construction. Being young and female, I was typically met with skepticism. Most meetings and interactions began with a test where I was grilled on my technical knowledge of hanging and finishing drywall. Fortunately, I had hands-on experience with every aspect of the craft and was able to quickly dispel these doubts.
However, the early skepticism made me hesitant to network. The idea of building relationships and seeking help felt daunting. Eventually, I realized that success wasn’t just about proving myself— it was about building connections that would allow me to do my best work.
Once I embraced networking and building relationships into my business strategy, everything began to shift. Looking back, I’d tell my younger self: there’s a wealth of support out there, but you have to be willing to ask for it.
What is Networking in Construction?
Before we dive into the steps of effective networking in construction, let’s clarify what networking is and how it applies to the industry.
At its core, networking is about creating and nurturing relationships that support both personal and professional growth. In construction, this often involves building connections with industry peers leading to partnerships, referrals, and collaboration on future projects.
Key connections within construction include:
- General Contractors
- Subcontractors
- Suppliers
- Architects and Engineers
- Developers
- Safety Consultants
- Clients and Property Owners
But remember, networking isn’t limited to just those within the construction field. Expanding your network beyond the industry can also provide valuable opportunities. Every relationship has the potential to open new doors, enhance collaboration, and foster long-term success.
Networking outside of construction might include relationships with:
- Real Estate Companies
- Restaurants and Bars
- Interior Designers
- Property Management Companies
The connections you develop in the construction industry can last for years, offering essential expertise and support. Having a trusted network ensures you have access to specialized skills and opportunities, allowing you to work more efficiently and achieve more successful project outcomes.
Steps to Successful Networking
Networking is valuable, but it can sometimes feel like a drain on your time. These steps will help you stay focused and maximize your efforts for the best results.
1. Develop a Strong Reputation
First, make sure your business is one that others want to partner with. Prioritize integrity and strong values. This will help you attract partnerships with like-minded companies and develop relationships based on trust. A solid reputation is key— without it, your networking opportunities will be limited.
2. Display Your Brand Message
Share your company story so people know what you stand for. Communicating your brand message will help you build authentic connections. Showcase this message on your website and expand on it through your blog and podcast appearances. Starting the conversation yourself helps move networking relationships forward.
3. Attend Networking Events
Events are a powerful way to network in the construction industry. They offer a chance to meet a variety of professionals in a short period, opening doors to valuable connections. Whether it’s trade shows, conferences, or local industry meetups, these gatherings allow you to meet new people and exchange ideas.
4. Communicate on the Job Site
The job site is a prime opportunity to connect with other trades. At PDI, we prioritize showing up to the job site with positivity and engaging with everyone. We even use conflicts as chances to communicate, learn, and collaborate on solutions. This not only keeps projects moving but also helps us showcase our strengths as managers and problem-solvers while growing our network.
5. Take Advantage of Social Media
It’s no secret that social media is a great place to build connections and find community. LinkedIn stands out for professional networking, but platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter also offer value. Share photos of your work, engage with industry peers, and connect with potential clients.
6. Nurture Relationships
Once you’ve made the initial connection, maintaining relationships requires effort and attention. Be there when others need help and follow through on your promises.
At PDI, one of the ways we nurture relationships is by avoiding back charging. We only charge other trades for mistakes or damages if there is a blatant disregard for our work. Otherwise, we fix issues at no cost. This goodwill is almost always reciprocated and is key to fostering strong, long-term relationships with other trades.
Pick the Right Networking Events
When it comes to networking, it’s important to be selective and intentional about the events you attend. Before committing, ask yourself what you want to achieve and make sure the event aligns with your goals.
Some events are designed for broad networking and increasing visibility— great for getting your name out there and building brand recognition. While these can be beneficial in the long term, they may not always offer immediate results and can become draining if you attend too many.
Instead, focus on quality over quantity. Prioritize events where you can make meaningful connections, like Coffee with Contractors in North Carolina’s Triangle region. This group hosts high-quality networking events tailored to industry professionals, offering the chance to build deeper, more valuable relationships. In fact, the next event, sponsored by PDI Drywall, is September 26, 2024. If you’re interested, you can find more details here.
By being strategic with your time and focusing on quality connections, you’ll build relationships that drive lasting growth and success. Make every networking opportunity count by showing up with authenticity, positivity, and an open mind.
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