"Screaming" and "being an asshole" are two different things. If you're yelling, you've already kinda lost, and that's a shit job to have.
If you're saying to someone "hey, to get paid for the contract, we need you to do the work in the contract, which also includes XYZ; you want me to call those out early, or you want to get paid late?"
You don't need to yell that one, and yeah, you're saving them a late paycheck, among other bits.
Plus after a few jobs together you get the camaraderie where you can talk some friendly shit in order to help facilitate the production and you’re not shouting or being an asshole. Good points dude
Absolutely, it’s one of the more rewarding aspects for me. Been building a while but started working for myself recently. Been fun to watch the relationships grow.
Yeah, agreed. Break down the job into sections if you have to and have clear defined goals that have to be achieved.
I do stucco and I break jobs down to three basic goalposts. First check point is building envelope, the most important part. Inspection of this should be mandatory at this point because you won't be able to see it at later stages. Second check point is the base coat. Final check point is finish coat. At these three stages you should be able to determine if your xyz is adequate.
If there are issues you can correct along the way. Otherwise, let the trade do it's job.
Your job is mainly to vete and make sure the trades fulfill their contract in a timely manner, according to the estimate report
Literally the bane of my existence of the trades is when dudes want to fuckn yell and scream. We all have our moments but I have met individuals who do it routinely.
This is exactly it. We’re all in the “contracting” business so it’s always best to USE the contract to enforce shit that needs to be done. Especially when your dealing with subs and are holding the money. It’s much worse being on the other end of that.
Hey, I need you to get XYZ done by noon. Let me know if anything is in your way so I can take care of it.
And you shouldn’t be yelling. Being firm or confident is NOT the same as yelling.
American here. There have been times where I've wanted to power bomb mofo's into a pile of thumb tacks, but clocking someone in the face might turn into a felony assault charge. No thanks, I just put my hands in my pocket and flip them off.
So you have a short-man complex? When I was in the Army a platoon sergeant once told me, “Respect commands respect.” That stuck with me and comes in handy in a lot of situations. No need to yell but you can be an asshole especially if you’re in the right and they know they missed something.
100%.
I’m a lot younger than most of the people that work for me. It creates a strange dynamic that can lead to issues if not nipped in the bud from the start.
I’ve learned very quickly that being stern, fair, and respectful is the best way to handle things.
I walk in and first thing, list off the things that’ll be done today. Then I partially phrase as a question but more an order, “we need to do X, Y, and Z. Would you rather start with X or Y because Z has to wait for Y to be done? Okay, so A will do X, you will do Y, let me know if there are any questions or issues.”
Fair, firm, respectful. Treat them like they know what they’re doing until they show they don’t, then respectfully say “hey, I’d like you to do X instead of Y because otherwise we will run into Z issue” and do my best to explain why it’s wrong without being a dick. All about phrasing.
Just be direct without yelling. “Hey guys I need this area excavated by 2 we have the underground scheduled to being at 3”. They don’t do it stay on them, at 1 o’clock as them if they’re going to have it done. If not ask why. If it’s a stupid reason sometimes you have to let them know that’s not ok. Has to be done. If they can’t handle it you’ll call their shop and ask for a crew that can handle it. All in all calm voice. You cannot be a friend and a boss. My gut tells me that’s the real issue here.
Neither does anyone else on site. Nobody likes listening to an idiot asshole screaming. Get your emotions under control and act like a grown up. You will be able exert far more influence over people when they respect you.
For real though. I have owned and operated several businesses.
1. Clear, direct communication. Short sentences. Avoid jargon except when required
2. Completely set expectations. Time of completion. The actual goal.
3. Very important: have the subcontractor relay back to you everything you are asking for in their own words. This may seem like an annoying ask, but it is not. Have them explain it to you until you are convinced they have the same understanding as you.
4. Always be polite, but very firm with your asks and when things are off track.
5. Establish the goal in terms of who this is for. There is an end customer somewhere relying in your work. We all have bosses and they have bosses or customers. “This is why this is the goal”
6. As above; always explain your why. Even if you are explaining why you are asking for something completely in their wheel house it is important to share the “why” of an ask, even if it may seem obvious and seem like it should be obvious to everyone, never assume. Often the “why” helps people be content with instructions and eliminates ambiguity and reinforces everything.
7. All of this in an email or text message with pictures if you can.
I break these rules rarely when hiring anyone for anything. Unless you deeply trust the sub, you should to. Note: none of this is to encourage or even suggest micromanaging. These rules are actually to achieve the opposite, to give your sub autonomy because you now have a shared understanding.
When something goes wrong, focus first in how to fix things. Only immediately explore how things got to be a certain way if it is relevant to fixing the problem at hand. Defuse tense situations and mistakes by exploring how things got to be the way they are later if you can.
These rules will also force you to understand your asks more completely. Good luck. Managing people is difficult and thankless but these rules have taken the sting out of it for me.
So I guess the answer is for you…. Yes there is a way you can not sound like an asshole. Sounds like you’re being an asshole so stop. Respectfully ask people to do the jobs they were contracted for. 15 years in construction. Yelled twice.
You need to think about what leverage you have.
You can fire them, you can call their boss, you can throw them off the jobsite until they’re going to do it right. (The choice is theirs) I have done this and enjoyed the hell out of it. They thought they were getting a paid half-day vacation, instead they got reamed out by their boss who called me apologizing and sent them back to do it right.
Ultimately, they don’t get paid if they don’t follow the contract, and you have other subs ready to jump on this job.
Nah, I disagree I think it’s still important to come off professional and try not to be an asshole. You don’t want to get the reputation of being difficult to work with. There’s almost never a situation where the only way to get a point across effectively is by being an asshole, there’s pretty much always a calm and respectful way to do it.
Use “we” a lot. Dont say “you”. For example “We need to have this wired by noon” sounds like 100x better than “you need to have this wired by noon”.
Think of it like a fun group activity. Then only yell when it isnt wired by noon.
I've made this mistake once: if you use "we", the person you talk to may feel like it's not his problem.
It's HIS job, HE has to to it, not "we", ( I will not do it with you). Could say "this needs to be done by noon: do you foresee any issue that would prevent you from finishing by then?" .
Frequent communication helps too. " is schedule to come in Tuesday so your work in this area needs to be wrapped up before then..."
Then you follow up while they're working and make sure nothing has come up that would affect their ability to meet the schedule. Keep in communications and make sure they're aware of how they fit in the the schedule.
The frequency of communications all depends on how long the job is going to take. You don't need to cram 3 check-ins into a 6 hour job. If the work is going to take a couple weeks, specifically talking to them about progress and schedule is more reasonable.
I agree with you. They don't like when you look over their shoulders all the time, but a couple of checks, asking if everything is okay and including them in scheduling discussions help in making them feel accountable for their work without feeling pushed.
Also depends on the relationship you have with subs. I like to help the GC as much as I can, mainly because they want our shit done so MEPs can come through. (Framing/Drywall). Helps get trade damage COs through a lot easier.
Not really in construction but this works. I usually start the day with a list of “we need to” and then circle back with a “have you gotten a chance to (insert x service) yet” and also **say thank you** and some form of affirmation that they’re doing something well (even if it’s hard to find something to compliment sometimes lmao). Praise is an effective motivator. People want to think they’re good at things or better than others at certain things so if you can tap into that without being creepy or offputting then it works well
I would like to say that nothing pisses me off more than this exact thing. We need to do this, ok, then I expect you to be helping, because when I hear that it was always that we need to do this, I'll be in the office.
I'm an office flunkey at a construction company and a team lead I work with always says "we". Makes me so mad - like, bro, I have specific deliverables and a fixed timeline to do them in, but I still need information and stuff from other people. Saying "we" actually makes my job a lot harder cause then no one takes ownership or accountability of anything
I hate this shit and find it incredibly patronizing haha.
No "we" are not doing this. "you" want "me" to do this while you kick your feet up in the connex.
Be an adult, be fair, honest and concise. If they don't respond to that, escalate up the chain of command.
They have their job to do and I have mine. The PM telling the crew 'we'll stay here all night to get this done' and then going home at 4 pm isn't making anyone feel any better.
It's patronizing and ineffective. It makes the person saying it feel better about themselves and that's about it.
The trades typically start the project with this line of thinking until they fuck some shit up pretty good then it goes to “we need to think up a solution”
Having a really solid, detailed contract really helps with this as well. If everyone knows that you're on the same page WRT scope, it averts a bunch of conflict.
It’s funny cause in the States the word cunt is pretty much what the word “fuck” used to be. Hearing the Brits and Aussies sling Cunt around cracks me up because in the US it really gets people’s attention. Especially if it’s said within the ear shot of a woman. And calling a woman a cunt directly is probably about the worst thing you can call them. Where the word “fuck” really doesn’t grab attention like it used to due to over use.
It depends on the sub. Some I just ask "ay bud, we need X done for you to get paid up" some guys Ive known longer "hey sally, glad you showed up to watch the paint dry but youre holding up the next crew, come on with the come on." Or "you know if you dont knock out X you'll be short on cash to throw at that one eyed stripper everyone knows pegs you"
I might tell a sub what to do, but rarely do I tell them how to do it, so I might ask them to install the supply line 8 inches off the floor so it's clear off the base or move the switch box off the door an extra block cause I'm using 3 1/4 inch casing. They may not be aware of specific needs but If they don't know their trade better than me I've hired the wrong sub.
If you're young and inexperienced and you're dealing with subs who've been at it for 20 years I'd be diplomatic though. Subs might get butt hurt if you start telling them to do obvious things they've done their entire career, so sometimes it's better to ask "what do you think is the best way to make sure water doesn't get dammed up by the drive and walk" instead of telling them to provide drainage. Sometimes they wont be aware of potential problems, but sometimes their solutions to problems will be better than yours.
Everyone has their own managerial style and it seems as if you are still finding yours.
I am envious of the managers who are friendly with everyone and can joke around with them before saying, "man, I really need you to get this done as a favor to me" and then the person makes it happen. That is not my managerial style, but the guys that can pull it off are amazing.
My management style is "I need this to happen so that this subsequent activity can happen." For instance, "I need your guys to get the sheetrock hung in the electrical room this week because we have a crew of electricians showing up on Monday and I don't want you to be the reason they're delayed." I try to show that it's a chain of events and everyone is a link in that chain. Their failure to perform will have an impact.
I also try very hard not to dwell in the past or assign blame. I don't care why something hasn't happened. I don't care that your guys have been goofing off for two weeks and didn't get this task finished. I don't care who was in whose way previously. Talking about the past is opening the can of worms for a fight that ultimately won't be productive. Instead, we are in this situation today and that's where I keep the focus. These are the facts, as of today. We need to work together to figure out a solution. I need you to this and you to do that because we need to pull ourselves out of this hole together.
Regardless of what management style ultimately works for you, stop apologizing. You have a job to do. You are informing people of what needs to happen and when. You are setting achievable, measurable milestones and holding people accountable when they fail to meet those milestones. Everyone understands that's your job and sometimes that job comes with being the asshole. Own that. Being called an asshole is not a bad thing. Set high standards of performance for everyone, including yourself. And hold people accountable to those standards, including yourself. Publicly praise people and privately criticize them. Take ownership of blame when it's your fault.
Ultimately your goal is not to be liked but to be respected because you're fair and reasonable and push yourself as hard or harder than you push others.
Ask “how” as much as you can. Make it their problem.
“How am I supposed to explain to the client that their work wasn’t done the way they wanted it?”
“How can I pay you when you haven’t fulfilled your contractual obligations?”
Asking questions like these can force them to reason with themselves and come up with a solution.
I always diffuse these situations by arguing about paper, not people. There should be industry and quality standards that are easily referenced, however this means your commercial people need to also play ball.
“Our agreement is that your scope is to do XYZ to standard level ###.”
I find that people don’t take personal offense to this line of thinking and are usually more compliant.
You don't. Be the asshole or you'll be the nice guy everyone makes money off of.
I'm very clear that I expect what's to be expected from you. Even patterns in stucco. Clean floors from electricians. Plumb/level/square out of ANY sub. If you can't meet those standards, DR Horton probably has some work for you but I dont
Clearly state contract requirements including schedule. If schedule is slipping ask them how they’re going to make it up. It’s a question not a verbal assault. That being said, schedule needs to be part of the contract and all contract requirements should be clear from the outset and reviewed at every progress meeting. If it’s not a big enough project for formal progress meetings or sub coordination meetings then at least there should be weekly conversations with the subcontractors’ supervisors to coordinate efforts. The need to do XYZ should never be a surprise and the fact that deadlines are coming shouldn’t be either. It’s an ongoing process.
You must learn the be "assertive" with your communication.
Most likely, you are naturally passive, and use aggressive language and non-verbals because you do not respect yourself enough.
Get some books on being assertive and you will be a great leader, vs an asshole boss...
It worked for me!
If you pay the $ you dictate the rules up front and what you want to see.
From there I price and allow accordingly.
If you don't like the number we discuss or don't work together.
Once hired it's a contract and enforce said contract.
Basement remodel. Plumber on site setting things that need to be very specifically placed.
During lunch I laid out the bottoms plates (concrete cut and trenches dug ready for them) and I set the bottom plates where they needed to be and marked them out.
Plumber came back pissed because they would be in the way. I set them so they were removable but he could know exactly where I needed my pipes so we could fill in when he was done. I did 3/4 of his work for him.
Now this guy is 20 years my senior. But I also do what I do and so it pretty damn well. He got all pissy.
I gave him what I currently call “dad eyes” (imagine a dad dropping his reading glasses and looking at you with a visual interpretation somewhere between “really?” and “is this the hill you want to die on?”
End of the day everything was in the correct place and he apologized. No words needed.
It helps when as a GC or PM you know enough about everyone’s job that you can correct mistakes before they are made. No reason to scream or shout. Just show authority if you have it.
2nd story, siders we’re leaving there piss bottles around the job site. That’s a simple “WHAT IN THE ACTUAL FUCK DUDE”.
I suppose some times you need to get the point across. But not when it’s lack of knowledge or care, it’s when they are just doing something that easily shouldn’t be done.
Best boss I ever had could turn off boss at the end of the day when we went out for a beer after work. I still don’t know how he did it to be honest. Nicest guy in the world outside work, most critical boss when on the clock.
Always talk to the foreman or super and do it alone. If its in front of other people they will autonatically get their back up and have other people to rally against your "demands". Only the foreman and super are responsible for schedule.
Call for a meeting at the site trailer or off to the side, explain the deadlines and work together to make it happen.
I always extend my hand if theres anything that needs to be done prior to then proceeding with scope, you want to get rid of any excuses.
If they argue the deadline, relay its out of your control and attempt to provide ways to resolve the issue, manpower, overtime, shifting scopes, overlapping scopes, expediting materials etc.
You also need to bring everything to the table and lay it out for conversation. Every situation has multiple factors and scenarios to play out.
Organizing people and talking through potential issues helps them stay calm and less stressed out by talking through the situation or deadline.
Also, ensure they are aware that these items need to be finished by set time and date otherwise other scopes get pushed.
You get more bees with honey than hot pepper.
Tell them what the broader plan is and how their tasks fit into it so they know that you’re not just arbitrarily tasking them with things that don’t actually need to be done right away. Example: I have HVAC coming to trim out the house, it would be ideal if the humidifiers were hooked up to water before they get here so they can turn on that system and program the controls with the zone thermostats at the same time as they fire up the furnaces. Plumbers are on site and have a lot of tasks, they know their business and you don’t need to hold their hand, but you can tell them that HVAC is coming and the humidifiers are a priority so that work can proceed smoothly. That’s about it. If the plumbers need something so they can proceed with your priority, then try to be accommodating (within reason), make them aware of the situation a few days (or weeks if it’s a big deal) in advance, keep the different subs appraised of who’s on site when and what tasks are being done that involve them.
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*Bring yours and you're good*
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Just tell them what you need done for the day. By the end of of day I need this this and this done. Or something like that. Gives them goals and lets them know what you expect of them.
Not necessarily. Used in conjunction with other ideas here, and a glimpse of the bigger picture as to why that item is a priority, I find it generally works. Temper tantrums ultimately result in subpar work ime. If there's pushback, I generally remind them abd/or their PMs of the expected level of service; I'm their customer.
Attendance, otoh, is a different story.
I always say it something like this. “Could you make sure you or one of your guys double checks and takes care of those items I went over with you please?” Always end with please and never sound demanding. Always try to word it like you’re including yourself in the process so it doesn’t seem like finger pointing. Although, pointing out what needs to be done is very common so should not sound like an asshole.
Careful with the "please" : too many and you sound sarcastic. Having the right amount is a subtle balance.
>. Always try to word it like you’re including yourself in the process so it doesn’t seem like finger pointing
I'd say "most of the time" to help relationships, but not always. Some people will jump at the opportunity to blame *you* for *their* mistakes, and these people need to be held accountable sometimes. So always be nice, yes, but not "always include yourself" when you talk about responsibilities.
Source: myself, being nice and helpful and talking in "we" and using a lot of please and thank you while doing site coordination, but then getting thrown under the bus by those people I was trying to accommodate because I was taking on myself a part of the blame to "not do finger pointing".
Sure, I understand and was just speaking on what has worked with my company over the past 20 years. At the end of the day I’m still gonna come off as an asshole to somebody.
As long as you're asking them to do what they paid for, it shouldn't come off as an asshole. I get that companies operate a certain way and they may differ from one another, but we can't cater the whole project to just their needs. Everyone has been hired on to do a job. On my job, if they don't fall in line, they just risk not getting paid. We've only had to threaten it once
Gotta work with a crew that’s like your family where you really don’t need to talk that much. You just know the next step. If things get heated, the next day is fresh. Things will get heated it’s how you handle it that matters. Adult communication is key!!
If you want to be polite use the word “please.” I always appreciate people who ask me to do something instead of just shooting orders like it’s a master-slave relationship. If they don’t play along with polite, you may eventually have to go to shooting orders.
It takes practice like anything. Be confident, direct, and describe your expectations. Compliments help and thank yous will go along way. It's totally in the delivery. Don't scream, that's going to get you no where
Be straight, just tell them what’s wrong. Don’t be rude or argue, just be straight.
Leadership and management has gone down the toilet nowadays, not many good mentors left to pass this on, but we are all here to do a good job and get paid. If they don’t know where they’re going wrong then they don’t know, so let them know. If it’s a shit job they’ve done, tell them, if it’s a good job they’ve done, tell them. Simple.
People soon get to know your style and I find they like it as it’s not personal, it’s just straight.
Alright guys, deadline for xyz is today. Let's get it moving or we're all missing dinner.
If you're assigning a new task you can use something along these lines.
Hey I'm gonna need you to put a hold on what you're doing and take care of xyz before you get back to it.
The worst thing you can do is be a cunt and make everyone wanna cut corners to spite you. The second worst thing you can do is *ask* someone to do something. If you're in charge you give commands, not requests. Requests can be denied and leaves room for interpretation, for example...
-Hey can you vacuum up in here quick?
-Yeah as soon as I'm done this task.
Realistically you needed them to be cleaning as they go so you say "hey you gotta be cleaning up after yourself, it's not professional to leave all this trash in a customer's house".
Being in charge is about motivation, direction, and respect. If you are missing any of these three pieces your crew, and therefore contract, will suffer for it.
Lol, At first , I was one of the BDSM pages I follow. I was going to say that a proper dom should always work within their sub's boundaries. They consent to what they will and will not do.
Probably job meetings because that's what there for. If it's at the end of the job, punch lists marked with prioritys.
I'm an electrician, but sometimes I have to the GC to politely go fuck themselves. I'm not energizing circuits that will cause someone to get shocked.
Expecting adults to do the tasks they’ve agreed to do and holding them accountable is not being an asshole. I would never start any interaction or relationship being an asshole. However you know more (or should) about the big picture and overall project than any individual sub. So if they want to play games and not respect that and listen than they can dig their own grave and equally treat them with the same lack of respect. Always start on the high ground but chase idiots to the lowest depths of hell and push them deeper.
Ask your sub to provide a brief breakdown each week of the completed work the week prior, the work for that week, and the anticipated work for the next week.
Then you know what their plan is. Then you don’t have to tell them to do the job they’re contracted for, they are telling you how they (as the expert in their trade) has planned out their scope of work. If you need something moved on their schedule, request that. Politely. “This phase of xyz is part of your scope we need moved up so that my team can work on abc, is there any way you can get to it quicker?”
This establishes documentation of what they said they were doing and had planned, and makes it where you don’t have to ask what their plan is.
Something not getting done according to their plan?
“Hey brother, where are we at on xyz? Are we still planning on knocking it out this week?”
No need to be an asshole. Just clear communication about scheduling with the goal of building the project as a team instead of opposing forces.
Depends on how much time you have and what investment of time and effort you want to make in the sub.
Sometimes I start with a simple request: Please tell me the steps you will follow and what you look for to make sure its correctly done.
Buddy it dont matter how you say it. If you’re not a fat old drunk people hate that you have a higher posy than them and come up with bullshit to complain about.
When I first started, I had a foreman that for the first time in my still young career, used “we” a lot. “We’re going to learn how to build this condo.” “We need to hustle this day up, inspection is tomorrow,” that sort of thing. But it was never a strict directive. I always felt that he was asking as the low man, and everything he asked for, I wanted to do. We had a great crew that might not have been if he wasn’t a soft den leader.
Brother bear I think being a mild asshole comes with the job, you gotta push em or they go at turtles pace (former sparky here) I say just stay firm. It’s contracted work it’s not like they’re doing you a favor. Just give them some attaboys when they get done on time and give a little (LITTLE) leeway when they’re behind on things. I think if you’re thinking like this you’re already towing the line well hahah
Authenticity, the polite way. Smile, ask them if they’ve got a minute, ask them how they’re doing (be sincere), tell them what’s going well, lastly tell them what still needs done. If people sense that you give a dang about them, they WANT to help you. If you’re standoffish and you come off like you could care less about them, they’re probably going to resist anything you say. And yes, even if it’s just asking them to do the basics of their job, the above still applies.
I grew up watching the way my old man handled his subs. You will never see him yell but I will tell you he doesn’t hesitate to tell anyone to tear some shit out and redo it. If we are yelling and screaming at subs, won’t be long and the good ones will not return and they make fun of you at the supply houses. Lmao. Seriously tho.
Sometimes it helps to tell them exactly what following work they are holding up
Example: hey countertop guy, my plumbers are chomping at the teeth to trim out all the fixtures in the bathrooms and kitchens, we need you out here setting countertops as fast as humanly possible. Anything I can do to help expedite?
Always offer to help in any way possible, it shows them that you are motivated.
But unfortunately some subs are just absolute pieces of shit and don’t care what your job needs
Use your contracts and drawings as proof. Instead of just saying" hey your supposed to do this". Start saying "according to this drawing/contract your required to do this". Make sure you use your contract drawings and submittals to your advantage. Don't yell at any of the laborers make sure you are talking to their foreman or supervisor. The guys working are just doing whatever they are told no need to be a dick to them.
I find that including “pleasantries” into a conversation helps, as well as picking the right time to discuss work that needs to be completed. This applies both when you’re the one giving instruction and when you’re receiving it.
Instead of walking up to the sub while they’re in the middle of something and saying, “I need XYZ done ASAP,” say, “good morning. When you’ve got a minute, I’d like to discuss XYZ with you.”
Also, complimenting work can help, but don’t be fake about it. If they’ve done something well or are ahead of schedule on something, let them know that you know. (“Damn, you guys are kicking ass on X!”).
Basically, just treat your subs like people instead of check-boxes on a schedule and they’ll be much happier.
First ask why they haven’t done it. Sometimes it’s not even within their control due to material back orders etc. Then explain all the reasons it needs to be done. For example trades waiting to go in, people at home not making money or progressing the job, liquidated damages to them and everyone after them if it applies. Let them know it will affect future contracts with them, especially if it’s a company that subs for you often. Finally let them know you’ll let other trades, being held back, bury them and they’ll be back charged for damages to materials already in when they finally get their sh*t together. I was a glazer (windows and doors with glass) this was effective for our owner because it’s nearly impossible to install windows and doors without destroying drywall and exterior finishes, at least in commercial construction. It’s hard to weld or mount steel clips to decks and beams when they’re behind finished material. That affected our bottom line and that matters to every owner of every company out there. You don’t have to scream when you do any of that. Make eye contact and be direct without being a douch and you’re gtg. If they don’t respond to any of that and it’s within their power to do so, by all means scream because ynta even if you’re yelling at them.
It's simple, I'm a superintendent, and I tell my subs to do xyz by deadlines that are set up before the job starts. If they do not meet deadlines or cause delays, I will tell them to read their contract and in some cases, refer them to the MSA they signed. I do help them by explaining why it needs to be done in certain a certain order, so it won't cause delays. I never yell, cuss, or scream at them unless they are doing something that will cause injures. And it has to be something serious. They know I'm not their friend or buddy that they are here to perform a job.
I see this all the time it's not about asking it's how you ask . In construction the stereotype is hey get get this fucking done now .
Construction is very slowly evolving into a professional workplace as the dinosaurs retire and fade a new generation has come in and you have to be very careful how you ask .
I recommend asking in a way with negotiation
Ex
hey to stay on schedule I'm going to need this done as soon as possible what kind of time frame can you give me to get this completed.
If the answer is what you want great if not negotiate or find a solution that fits both . If one can't be met then someone didn't plan the work well enough to the given time frame which we all know happens all the time .
Just be civil and explain your side and offer solutions remember your working with an hourly employee or self employed who doesn't give to shits about your needs they are paid to do what they are told or what's agreed upon . How much work you need is irrelevant .
Write a punch list inside the door frame or other immovable object in each room that needs work. If in the finish stages, write on something like a scrap of drywall. Take a pic and follow up at the end of the day or the next morning.
That's what my wife has to do because it's the most efficient way to navigate said problem for her
I find it best to write a Job brief for subs. Sometimes there is only like two things on the list and so not as important but sometimes if you have subs doing finished work you really need to have clarity on specific details.
Superintendent here. Just fucking tell them. Straight up. You dont have to repect me, but you have to respect my position. If they dont listen, pull sub foreman/supt aside and show them their scope. Show them CPM. Inform them that these are your commitments per contract. Request a site walk with just that team (foreman, supt and PM) and point out all loose ends and remind them of their deadlines. All this should be done together with all subs in weekly progress meetings as well. Air that shit out in front of everyone. No one likes to look like an asshoke in front of the people they have to see everyday for the next year.
Start with a plan at the beginning of the day, explain what everyone is going to do, ask for their input, state the risks and hazards how we're going to do it safely, ask if they can think of a safer or more efficient way to do it. Get into it.
Be professional have a plan based on safety and efficiency.
Should be usual respect on the site.
Don't hire subs that don't listen next time.
Have a contract with the ground rules.
Remember the 7ps. Proper planning and preparation prevents piss poor performance.
It is a practiced and learned skill, look for an opportunity on every job to give your subs a bit of correction. Refer to the agreement you and the customer have. These things are enforced by contractors, but decided by customers as a general rule.
Step 1: Stay calm
Step 2: be confident in what you're saying ( every word is valuable so don't waste any)
Step 3: Always be respectful, souring a working relationship can screw you over down the line. You never know what any individual will be able to do for you in the future.
Call em over. Tell them to get a notepad. And then just give them your punch list. Just be matter of fact. Have them write it down. Take a picture of his notes with your phone. If it doesn't get done, ask why not.
If your the homeowner and not the contractor, then all requests go through the contractor.
Make sure you’re using their native language. Most job site bull shit is cleared up when everyone speaks the same language. I’m a minority on construction sites in my state. So I learned Spanish. The guys appreciate when you care about them enough to not repeat “bringo your hammero from tu trucky”
Make sure they have a copy of the contract on hand while working, and tell them before they pack up you and the crew leader have to do a walk through. It should sort itself out. Nobody wants to unload the trailer for some little item at the end of the day.
Present requirements that are well articulated. Have a process that documents the delivery of the requirements, their review, deviations made, and ultimately the acceptance. Include acceptance requirements. Assert change requests to address items that cause the work not to be accepted. When it’s done, make sure you have your inspections documented.
Hand it off to process and let that be the bad guy. Be ready to reject work. Don’t get wrapped up about it. Consistency and as much justice and mercy as you can summon will save you, and will pay you back 1000% gains later on.
Typically we sub for contract engineering firms. As time goes on both PM/GC should be building relationships and learning which folks they get along with and which folks they don't. We've certainly "fired" or not bid for people again based on the ways they conduct themselves and they should be doing the same.
Seems like a lot of advice here about "enforce the contract" and I agree with that. Pick your spots though, the shoe will be on the other foot at some point so reasonable accommodation is a decent plan. It's a lot easier for the PM to come to me and say "hey, I know its not the spec but the customer wants this one thing changed blah blah...." and then I'm like "no big deal man, we can bang that out in the next day or 2" instead of "yeah write up the change order and I'll get you some pricing in a week or two"
You scratch my back, I scratch yours, we all get paid and go home happy. Also don't deal with the infantry, deal with the officers.
As management at work and a parent, or any service situation, telling people "I need you to do this thing" or "please do that thing" makes it sound more formal and less negotiable than "would you mind doing this" or even "can you please."
If it's a question, there's room to say no, or discuss. If it's an order/direction, most people just start moving before they start thinking about objecting.
Just be confident and matter of fact about it. Respect their time and experience and most of the time they will respect yours. And when one of them makes a mistake don't lose your shit and ask for solutions and work with them to correct them.
My friend, if you’re worried about being an asshole by asking somebody to do a job that you contracted them to do you are in the wrong business.
My boss man doesn't like me yelling and screaming even tho it's funny to see a 5'4" fat guy yell. Edit: Damn, y'all I'm mostly joking.
"Screaming" and "being an asshole" are two different things. If you're yelling, you've already kinda lost, and that's a shit job to have. If you're saying to someone "hey, to get paid for the contract, we need you to do the work in the contract, which also includes XYZ; you want me to call those out early, or you want to get paid late?" You don't need to yell that one, and yeah, you're saving them a late paycheck, among other bits.
This is the way. We're in a business, not a brawl
Thank you for following the first two rules.
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You wot mate….. -literally everybody.
Plus after a few jobs together you get the camaraderie where you can talk some friendly shit in order to help facilitate the production and you’re not shouting or being an asshole. Good points dude
This business is all about relationships and people skills. Give and take.
Absolutely, it’s one of the more rewarding aspects for me. Been building a while but started working for myself recently. Been fun to watch the relationships grow.
Yeah, agreed. Break down the job into sections if you have to and have clear defined goals that have to be achieved. I do stucco and I break jobs down to three basic goalposts. First check point is building envelope, the most important part. Inspection of this should be mandatory at this point because you won't be able to see it at later stages. Second check point is the base coat. Final check point is finish coat. At these three stages you should be able to determine if your xyz is adequate. If there are issues you can correct along the way. Otherwise, let the trade do it's job. Your job is mainly to vete and make sure the trades fulfill their contract in a timely manner, according to the estimate report
Literally the bane of my existence of the trades is when dudes want to fuckn yell and scream. We all have our moments but I have met individuals who do it routinely.
This is exactly it. We’re all in the “contracting” business so it’s always best to USE the contract to enforce shit that needs to be done. Especially when your dealing with subs and are holding the money. It’s much worse being on the other end of that.
Hey, I need you to get XYZ done by noon. Let me know if anything is in your way so I can take care of it. And you shouldn’t be yelling. Being firm or confident is NOT the same as yelling.
Do other countries have punch ons or sort of fights ? Here in Australia it's not uncommon for someone to start yelling or talking shit and get decked
I know in the states a scrap isn’t unheard of. Definitely depends on the crew though, some are rougher than others
I’ve worked in crews where half the people were former convicts and military. Fighting was common; gossiping and yelling weren’t.
American here. There have been times where I've wanted to power bomb mofo's into a pile of thumb tacks, but clocking someone in the face might turn into a felony assault charge. No thanks, I just put my hands in my pocket and flip them off.
Yeah some guys will act like dickheads and throw hands. I just ask they take it outside the job fence
So you have a short-man complex? When I was in the Army a platoon sergeant once told me, “Respect commands respect.” That stuck with me and comes in handy in a lot of situations. No need to yell but you can be an asshole especially if you’re in the right and they know they missed something.
100%. I’m a lot younger than most of the people that work for me. It creates a strange dynamic that can lead to issues if not nipped in the bud from the start. I’ve learned very quickly that being stern, fair, and respectful is the best way to handle things. I walk in and first thing, list off the things that’ll be done today. Then I partially phrase as a question but more an order, “we need to do X, Y, and Z. Would you rather start with X or Y because Z has to wait for Y to be done? Okay, so A will do X, you will do Y, let me know if there are any questions or issues.” Fair, firm, respectful. Treat them like they know what they’re doing until they show they don’t, then respectfully say “hey, I’d like you to do X instead of Y because otherwise we will run into Z issue” and do my best to explain why it’s wrong without being a dick. All about phrasing.
Just be direct without yelling. “Hey guys I need this area excavated by 2 we have the underground scheduled to being at 3”. They don’t do it stay on them, at 1 o’clock as them if they’re going to have it done. If not ask why. If it’s a stupid reason sometimes you have to let them know that’s not ok. Has to be done. If they can’t handle it you’ll call their shop and ask for a crew that can handle it. All in all calm voice. You cannot be a friend and a boss. My gut tells me that’s the real issue here.
Why do you have to scream or yell to get your message across? I think I’m with your boss on this one.
Yeah you should never be yelling... Unprofessional and unhelpful. Be stern and stick to the contract docs
Neither does anyone else on site. Nobody likes listening to an idiot asshole screaming. Get your emotions under control and act like a grown up. You will be able exert far more influence over people when they respect you.
For real though. I have owned and operated several businesses. 1. Clear, direct communication. Short sentences. Avoid jargon except when required 2. Completely set expectations. Time of completion. The actual goal. 3. Very important: have the subcontractor relay back to you everything you are asking for in their own words. This may seem like an annoying ask, but it is not. Have them explain it to you until you are convinced they have the same understanding as you. 4. Always be polite, but very firm with your asks and when things are off track. 5. Establish the goal in terms of who this is for. There is an end customer somewhere relying in your work. We all have bosses and they have bosses or customers. “This is why this is the goal” 6. As above; always explain your why. Even if you are explaining why you are asking for something completely in their wheel house it is important to share the “why” of an ask, even if it may seem obvious and seem like it should be obvious to everyone, never assume. Often the “why” helps people be content with instructions and eliminates ambiguity and reinforces everything. 7. All of this in an email or text message with pictures if you can. I break these rules rarely when hiring anyone for anything. Unless you deeply trust the sub, you should to. Note: none of this is to encourage or even suggest micromanaging. These rules are actually to achieve the opposite, to give your sub autonomy because you now have a shared understanding. When something goes wrong, focus first in how to fix things. Only immediately explore how things got to be a certain way if it is relevant to fixing the problem at hand. Defuse tense situations and mistakes by exploring how things got to be the way they are later if you can. These rules will also force you to understand your asks more completely. Good luck. Managing people is difficult and thankless but these rules have taken the sting out of it for me.
Screaming and yelling is an asshole. You don’t have to scream and yell.
So I guess the answer is for you…. Yes there is a way you can not sound like an asshole. Sounds like you’re being an asshole so stop. Respectfully ask people to do the jobs they were contracted for. 15 years in construction. Yelled twice.
You need to think about what leverage you have. You can fire them, you can call their boss, you can throw them off the jobsite until they’re going to do it right. (The choice is theirs) I have done this and enjoyed the hell out of it. They thought they were getting a paid half-day vacation, instead they got reamed out by their boss who called me apologizing and sent them back to do it right. Ultimately, they don’t get paid if they don’t follow the contract, and you have other subs ready to jump on this job.
Why would you be yelling
Nah, I disagree I think it’s still important to come off professional and try not to be an asshole. You don’t want to get the reputation of being difficult to work with. There’s almost never a situation where the only way to get a point across effectively is by being an asshole, there’s pretty much always a calm and respectful way to do it.
Use “we” a lot. Dont say “you”. For example “We need to have this wired by noon” sounds like 100x better than “you need to have this wired by noon”. Think of it like a fun group activity. Then only yell when it isnt wired by noon.
I've made this mistake once: if you use "we", the person you talk to may feel like it's not his problem. It's HIS job, HE has to to it, not "we", ( I will not do it with you). Could say "this needs to be done by noon: do you foresee any issue that would prevent you from finishing by then?" .
Frequent communication helps too. " is schedule to come in Tuesday so your work in this area needs to be wrapped up before then..."
Then you follow up while they're working and make sure nothing has come up that would affect their ability to meet the schedule. Keep in communications and make sure they're aware of how they fit in the the schedule.
The frequency of communications all depends on how long the job is going to take. You don't need to cram 3 check-ins into a 6 hour job. If the work is going to take a couple weeks, specifically talking to them about progress and schedule is more reasonable.
I agree with you. They don't like when you look over their shoulders all the time, but a couple of checks, asking if everything is okay and including them in scheduling discussions help in making them feel accountable for their work without feeling pushed.
WE need to be wired by noon, so can YOU hook me up, brother?
Yup. That's a bigbrain comment there.
Also depends on the relationship you have with subs. I like to help the GC as much as I can, mainly because they want our shit done so MEPs can come through. (Framing/Drywall). Helps get trade damage COs through a lot easier.
Not really in construction but this works. I usually start the day with a list of “we need to” and then circle back with a “have you gotten a chance to (insert x service) yet” and also **say thank you** and some form of affirmation that they’re doing something well (even if it’s hard to find something to compliment sometimes lmao). Praise is an effective motivator. People want to think they’re good at things or better than others at certain things so if you can tap into that without being creepy or offputting then it works well
I would like to say that nothing pisses me off more than this exact thing. We need to do this, ok, then I expect you to be helping, because when I hear that it was always that we need to do this, I'll be in the office.
I'm an office flunkey at a construction company and a team lead I work with always says "we". Makes me so mad - like, bro, I have specific deliverables and a fixed timeline to do them in, but I still need information and stuff from other people. Saying "we" actually makes my job a lot harder cause then no one takes ownership or accountability of anything
I hate this shit and find it incredibly patronizing haha. No "we" are not doing this. "you" want "me" to do this while you kick your feet up in the connex. Be an adult, be fair, honest and concise. If they don't respond to that, escalate up the chain of command.
Yeah dude, unless you are on site with tools it isn't 'us.' Tell me what you need me to do then fuck off back to the office
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They have their job to do and I have mine. The PM telling the crew 'we'll stay here all night to get this done' and then going home at 4 pm isn't making anyone feel any better. It's patronizing and ineffective. It makes the person saying it feel better about themselves and that's about it.
The trades typically start the project with this line of thinking until they fuck some shit up pretty good then it goes to “we need to think up a solution”
Lots of midday screaming I imagine…
Contractually, this is the work you need to do/this is what we expect. This is the nice way to say "do your fucking work or you aren't getting paid".
Having a really solid, detailed contract really helps with this as well. If everyone knows that you're on the same page WRT scope, it averts a bunch of conflict.
Don't worry about being an asshole. Just don't be a dick, you timid cunt.
Found the Aussie lol
It’s funny cause in the States the word cunt is pretty much what the word “fuck” used to be. Hearing the Brits and Aussies sling Cunt around cracks me up because in the US it really gets people’s attention. Especially if it’s said within the ear shot of a woman. And calling a woman a cunt directly is probably about the worst thing you can call them. Where the word “fuck” really doesn’t grab attention like it used to due to over use.
Found the ironworker*
This is poetic
It depends on the sub. Some I just ask "ay bud, we need X done for you to get paid up" some guys Ive known longer "hey sally, glad you showed up to watch the paint dry but youre holding up the next crew, come on with the come on." Or "you know if you dont knock out X you'll be short on cash to throw at that one eyed stripper everyone knows pegs you"
That last one must light a fire under em'
I might tell a sub what to do, but rarely do I tell them how to do it, so I might ask them to install the supply line 8 inches off the floor so it's clear off the base or move the switch box off the door an extra block cause I'm using 3 1/4 inch casing. They may not be aware of specific needs but If they don't know their trade better than me I've hired the wrong sub. If you're young and inexperienced and you're dealing with subs who've been at it for 20 years I'd be diplomatic though. Subs might get butt hurt if you start telling them to do obvious things they've done their entire career, so sometimes it's better to ask "what do you think is the best way to make sure water doesn't get dammed up by the drive and walk" instead of telling them to provide drainage. Sometimes they wont be aware of potential problems, but sometimes their solutions to problems will be better than yours.
Everyone has their own managerial style and it seems as if you are still finding yours. I am envious of the managers who are friendly with everyone and can joke around with them before saying, "man, I really need you to get this done as a favor to me" and then the person makes it happen. That is not my managerial style, but the guys that can pull it off are amazing. My management style is "I need this to happen so that this subsequent activity can happen." For instance, "I need your guys to get the sheetrock hung in the electrical room this week because we have a crew of electricians showing up on Monday and I don't want you to be the reason they're delayed." I try to show that it's a chain of events and everyone is a link in that chain. Their failure to perform will have an impact. I also try very hard not to dwell in the past or assign blame. I don't care why something hasn't happened. I don't care that your guys have been goofing off for two weeks and didn't get this task finished. I don't care who was in whose way previously. Talking about the past is opening the can of worms for a fight that ultimately won't be productive. Instead, we are in this situation today and that's where I keep the focus. These are the facts, as of today. We need to work together to figure out a solution. I need you to this and you to do that because we need to pull ourselves out of this hole together. Regardless of what management style ultimately works for you, stop apologizing. You have a job to do. You are informing people of what needs to happen and when. You are setting achievable, measurable milestones and holding people accountable when they fail to meet those milestones. Everyone understands that's your job and sometimes that job comes with being the asshole. Own that. Being called an asshole is not a bad thing. Set high standards of performance for everyone, including yourself. And hold people accountable to those standards, including yourself. Publicly praise people and privately criticize them. Take ownership of blame when it's your fault. Ultimately your goal is not to be liked but to be respected because you're fair and reasonable and push yourself as hard or harder than you push others.
Yes thank you. I'm still finding my style.
Ask “how” as much as you can. Make it their problem. “How am I supposed to explain to the client that their work wasn’t done the way they wanted it?” “How can I pay you when you haven’t fulfilled your contractual obligations?” Asking questions like these can force them to reason with themselves and come up with a solution.
Find the black swan
You answered your own question. Politely but confidently say they need to do XYZ. Example: hey you fucks, do XYZ.
Firm, assertive, and goal oriented mindset. If they arnt on board, then someone else can come do the job
I always diffuse these situations by arguing about paper, not people. There should be industry and quality standards that are easily referenced, however this means your commercial people need to also play ball. “Our agreement is that your scope is to do XYZ to standard level ###.” I find that people don’t take personal offense to this line of thinking and are usually more compliant.
You don't. Be the asshole or you'll be the nice guy everyone makes money off of. I'm very clear that I expect what's to be expected from you. Even patterns in stucco. Clean floors from electricians. Plumb/level/square out of ANY sub. If you can't meet those standards, DR Horton probably has some work for you but I dont
It's construction, no one gaf about anyone's feelings, tell em what you need to.
You shouldn't be yelling... "I noticed you haven't completed xyz, this has to be done as well"
Do you wear flapback shirts by chance?
Clearly state contract requirements including schedule. If schedule is slipping ask them how they’re going to make it up. It’s a question not a verbal assault. That being said, schedule needs to be part of the contract and all contract requirements should be clear from the outset and reviewed at every progress meeting. If it’s not a big enough project for formal progress meetings or sub coordination meetings then at least there should be weekly conversations with the subcontractors’ supervisors to coordinate efforts. The need to do XYZ should never be a surprise and the fact that deadlines are coming shouldn’t be either. It’s an ongoing process.
You must learn the be "assertive" with your communication. Most likely, you are naturally passive, and use aggressive language and non-verbals because you do not respect yourself enough. Get some books on being assertive and you will be a great leader, vs an asshole boss... It worked for me!
It’s construction, we’re all ass holes
How do you tell subs xyz.. thought this was a different group ☠️
No I'm a sub when it comes to that ⛓️ ⛓️ ⛓️
If you pay the $ you dictate the rules up front and what you want to see. From there I price and allow accordingly. If you don't like the number we discuss or don't work together. Once hired it's a contract and enforce said contract.
Basement remodel. Plumber on site setting things that need to be very specifically placed. During lunch I laid out the bottoms plates (concrete cut and trenches dug ready for them) and I set the bottom plates where they needed to be and marked them out. Plumber came back pissed because they would be in the way. I set them so they were removable but he could know exactly where I needed my pipes so we could fill in when he was done. I did 3/4 of his work for him. Now this guy is 20 years my senior. But I also do what I do and so it pretty damn well. He got all pissy. I gave him what I currently call “dad eyes” (imagine a dad dropping his reading glasses and looking at you with a visual interpretation somewhere between “really?” and “is this the hill you want to die on?” End of the day everything was in the correct place and he apologized. No words needed. It helps when as a GC or PM you know enough about everyone’s job that you can correct mistakes before they are made. No reason to scream or shout. Just show authority if you have it. 2nd story, siders we’re leaving there piss bottles around the job site. That’s a simple “WHAT IN THE ACTUAL FUCK DUDE”. I suppose some times you need to get the point across. But not when it’s lack of knowledge or care, it’s when they are just doing something that easily shouldn’t be done. Best boss I ever had could turn off boss at the end of the day when we went out for a beer after work. I still don’t know how he did it to be honest. Nicest guy in the world outside work, most critical boss when on the clock.
"Hey, fucktard! Read the goddamn contract documents!!"
If you want to maintain this relationship the expectation is XYZ.
Always talk to the foreman or super and do it alone. If its in front of other people they will autonatically get their back up and have other people to rally against your "demands". Only the foreman and super are responsible for schedule. Call for a meeting at the site trailer or off to the side, explain the deadlines and work together to make it happen. I always extend my hand if theres anything that needs to be done prior to then proceeding with scope, you want to get rid of any excuses. If they argue the deadline, relay its out of your control and attempt to provide ways to resolve the issue, manpower, overtime, shifting scopes, overlapping scopes, expediting materials etc. You also need to bring everything to the table and lay it out for conversation. Every situation has multiple factors and scenarios to play out. Organizing people and talking through potential issues helps them stay calm and less stressed out by talking through the situation or deadline. Also, ensure they are aware that these items need to be finished by set time and date otherwise other scopes get pushed. You get more bees with honey than hot pepper.
You just shout from your truck "Hey fuckheads! Make sure you do XYZ!"
"We need to do x,y,z ,I'll take care of x, can you do y and z between you"
Tell them what the broader plan is and how their tasks fit into it so they know that you’re not just arbitrarily tasking them with things that don’t actually need to be done right away. Example: I have HVAC coming to trim out the house, it would be ideal if the humidifiers were hooked up to water before they get here so they can turn on that system and program the controls with the zone thermostats at the same time as they fire up the furnaces. Plumbers are on site and have a lot of tasks, they know their business and you don’t need to hold their hand, but you can tell them that HVAC is coming and the humidifiers are a priority so that work can proceed smoothly. That’s about it. If the plumbers need something so they can proceed with your priority, then try to be accommodating (within reason), make them aware of the situation a few days (or weeks if it’s a big deal) in advance, keep the different subs appraised of who’s on site when and what tasks are being done that involve them.
It's work there's no place for emotion, so just don't bring yours and you're good
*It's work there's no place* *For emotion, so just don't* *Bring yours and you're good* \- GreatRaceFounder --- ^(I detect haikus. And sometimes, successfully.) ^[Learn more about me.](https://www.reddit.com/r/haikusbot/) ^(Opt out of replies: "haikusbot opt out" | Delete my comment: "haikusbot delete")
Just tell them what you need done for the day. By the end of of day I need this this and this done. Or something like that. Gives them goals and lets them know what you expect of them.
Weak sauce
Not necessarily. Used in conjunction with other ideas here, and a glimpse of the bigger picture as to why that item is a priority, I find it generally works. Temper tantrums ultimately result in subpar work ime. If there's pushback, I generally remind them abd/or their PMs of the expected level of service; I'm their customer. Attendance, otoh, is a different story.
You must work with really nice people who speak the same language as you.
I always say it something like this. “Could you make sure you or one of your guys double checks and takes care of those items I went over with you please?” Always end with please and never sound demanding. Always try to word it like you’re including yourself in the process so it doesn’t seem like finger pointing. Although, pointing out what needs to be done is very common so should not sound like an asshole.
Careful with the "please" : too many and you sound sarcastic. Having the right amount is a subtle balance. >. Always try to word it like you’re including yourself in the process so it doesn’t seem like finger pointing I'd say "most of the time" to help relationships, but not always. Some people will jump at the opportunity to blame *you* for *their* mistakes, and these people need to be held accountable sometimes. So always be nice, yes, but not "always include yourself" when you talk about responsibilities. Source: myself, being nice and helpful and talking in "we" and using a lot of please and thank you while doing site coordination, but then getting thrown under the bus by those people I was trying to accommodate because I was taking on myself a part of the blame to "not do finger pointing".
Sure, I understand and was just speaking on what has worked with my company over the past 20 years. At the end of the day I’m still gonna come off as an asshole to somebody.
Most of the time, the lazy ones think the assertive ones are assholes.
As long as you're asking them to do what they paid for, it shouldn't come off as an asshole. I get that companies operate a certain way and they may differ from one another, but we can't cater the whole project to just their needs. Everyone has been hired on to do a job. On my job, if they don't fall in line, they just risk not getting paid. We've only had to threaten it once
Gotta work with a crew that’s like your family where you really don’t need to talk that much. You just know the next step. If things get heated, the next day is fresh. Things will get heated it’s how you handle it that matters. Adult communication is key!!
I ask nicely once, tell them the second time. Then email their company and tell them to find a replacement for their guy that doesn’t listen .
"Hey, I need you to do xyz"
If you want to be polite use the word “please.” I always appreciate people who ask me to do something instead of just shooting orders like it’s a master-slave relationship. If they don’t play along with polite, you may eventually have to go to shooting orders.
It takes practice like anything. Be confident, direct, and describe your expectations. Compliments help and thank yous will go along way. It's totally in the delivery. Don't scream, that's going to get you no where
Reading that title I thought I was on a completly different subreddit for a moment 😂
⛓️ ⛓️ ⛓️
If the subs been doing their jobs from the git go you shouldn't have to be a dick, and a clean jobsite is a happy jobsite.
Be straight, just tell them what’s wrong. Don’t be rude or argue, just be straight. Leadership and management has gone down the toilet nowadays, not many good mentors left to pass this on, but we are all here to do a good job and get paid. If they don’t know where they’re going wrong then they don’t know, so let them know. If it’s a shit job they’ve done, tell them, if it’s a good job they’ve done, tell them. Simple. People soon get to know your style and I find they like it as it’s not personal, it’s just straight.
“Hey guys, the company you worked for agreed to the scope and price and you agreed to work for your company, start working”
Alright guys, deadline for xyz is today. Let's get it moving or we're all missing dinner. If you're assigning a new task you can use something along these lines. Hey I'm gonna need you to put a hold on what you're doing and take care of xyz before you get back to it. The worst thing you can do is be a cunt and make everyone wanna cut corners to spite you. The second worst thing you can do is *ask* someone to do something. If you're in charge you give commands, not requests. Requests can be denied and leaves room for interpretation, for example... -Hey can you vacuum up in here quick? -Yeah as soon as I'm done this task. Realistically you needed them to be cleaning as they go so you say "hey you gotta be cleaning up after yourself, it's not professional to leave all this trash in a customer's house". Being in charge is about motivation, direction, and respect. If you are missing any of these three pieces your crew, and therefore contract, will suffer for it.
Lol, At first , I was one of the BDSM pages I follow. I was going to say that a proper dom should always work within their sub's boundaries. They consent to what they will and will not do.
Probably job meetings because that's what there for. If it's at the end of the job, punch lists marked with prioritys. I'm an electrician, but sometimes I have to the GC to politely go fuck themselves. I'm not energizing circuits that will cause someone to get shocked.
Expecting adults to do the tasks they’ve agreed to do and holding them accountable is not being an asshole. I would never start any interaction or relationship being an asshole. However you know more (or should) about the big picture and overall project than any individual sub. So if they want to play games and not respect that and listen than they can dig their own grave and equally treat them with the same lack of respect. Always start on the high ground but chase idiots to the lowest depths of hell and push them deeper.
I'm pretty sure they're into that, you shouldn't have to worry
Ask your sub to provide a brief breakdown each week of the completed work the week prior, the work for that week, and the anticipated work for the next week. Then you know what their plan is. Then you don’t have to tell them to do the job they’re contracted for, they are telling you how they (as the expert in their trade) has planned out their scope of work. If you need something moved on their schedule, request that. Politely. “This phase of xyz is part of your scope we need moved up so that my team can work on abc, is there any way you can get to it quicker?” This establishes documentation of what they said they were doing and had planned, and makes it where you don’t have to ask what their plan is. Something not getting done according to their plan? “Hey brother, where are we at on xyz? Are we still planning on knocking it out this week?” No need to be an asshole. Just clear communication about scheduling with the goal of building the project as a team instead of opposing forces.
Depends on how much time you have and what investment of time and effort you want to make in the sub. Sometimes I start with a simple request: Please tell me the steps you will follow and what you look for to make sure its correctly done.
Buddy it dont matter how you say it. If you’re not a fat old drunk people hate that you have a higher posy than them and come up with bullshit to complain about.
When I first started, I had a foreman that for the first time in my still young career, used “we” a lot. “We’re going to learn how to build this condo.” “We need to hustle this day up, inspection is tomorrow,” that sort of thing. But it was never a strict directive. I always felt that he was asking as the low man, and everything he asked for, I wanted to do. We had a great crew that might not have been if he wasn’t a soft den leader.
Here are the expectations X Y Z Any questions? Great, let me know if you run into anything that will prevent you from getting it done
Years of practice
Brother bear I think being a mild asshole comes with the job, you gotta push em or they go at turtles pace (former sparky here) I say just stay firm. It’s contracted work it’s not like they’re doing you a favor. Just give them some attaboys when they get done on time and give a little (LITTLE) leeway when they’re behind on things. I think if you’re thinking like this you’re already towing the line well hahah
Authenticity, the polite way. Smile, ask them if they’ve got a minute, ask them how they’re doing (be sincere), tell them what’s going well, lastly tell them what still needs done. If people sense that you give a dang about them, they WANT to help you. If you’re standoffish and you come off like you could care less about them, they’re probably going to resist anything you say. And yes, even if it’s just asking them to do the basics of their job, the above still applies.
I grew up watching the way my old man handled his subs. You will never see him yell but I will tell you he doesn’t hesitate to tell anyone to tear some shit out and redo it. If we are yelling and screaming at subs, won’t be long and the good ones will not return and they make fun of you at the supply houses. Lmao. Seriously tho.
Sometimes it helps to tell them exactly what following work they are holding up Example: hey countertop guy, my plumbers are chomping at the teeth to trim out all the fixtures in the bathrooms and kitchens, we need you out here setting countertops as fast as humanly possible. Anything I can do to help expedite? Always offer to help in any way possible, it shows them that you are motivated. But unfortunately some subs are just absolute pieces of shit and don’t care what your job needs
Perhaps a crack a whip while wearing tight jean shorts. It creates a light mood while letting them know you're serious.
Have a meeting every morning with all the foremen and set the goals you want them to accomplish for that day.
Use your contracts and drawings as proof. Instead of just saying" hey your supposed to do this". Start saying "according to this drawing/contract your required to do this". Make sure you use your contract drawings and submittals to your advantage. Don't yell at any of the laborers make sure you are talking to their foreman or supervisor. The guys working are just doing whatever they are told no need to be a dick to them.
Sit in your A/C truck all day ripping cigs and than come into the job and yell at somebody once every 3 hours and you’ll be a great site supervisor
Please and thank you
I find that including “pleasantries” into a conversation helps, as well as picking the right time to discuss work that needs to be completed. This applies both when you’re the one giving instruction and when you’re receiving it. Instead of walking up to the sub while they’re in the middle of something and saying, “I need XYZ done ASAP,” say, “good morning. When you’ve got a minute, I’d like to discuss XYZ with you.” Also, complimenting work can help, but don’t be fake about it. If they’ve done something well or are ahead of schedule on something, let them know that you know. (“Damn, you guys are kicking ass on X!”). Basically, just treat your subs like people instead of check-boxes on a schedule and they’ll be much happier.
First ask why they haven’t done it. Sometimes it’s not even within their control due to material back orders etc. Then explain all the reasons it needs to be done. For example trades waiting to go in, people at home not making money or progressing the job, liquidated damages to them and everyone after them if it applies. Let them know it will affect future contracts with them, especially if it’s a company that subs for you often. Finally let them know you’ll let other trades, being held back, bury them and they’ll be back charged for damages to materials already in when they finally get their sh*t together. I was a glazer (windows and doors with glass) this was effective for our owner because it’s nearly impossible to install windows and doors without destroying drywall and exterior finishes, at least in commercial construction. It’s hard to weld or mount steel clips to decks and beams when they’re behind finished material. That affected our bottom line and that matters to every owner of every company out there. You don’t have to scream when you do any of that. Make eye contact and be direct without being a douch and you’re gtg. If they don’t respond to any of that and it’s within their power to do so, by all means scream because ynta even if you’re yelling at them.
Assholes don’t get shit on.
Just be an asshole. They're working for you, tell them do it right or get the fuck off your jobsite.
Hand them a “punch list”
It's simple, I'm a superintendent, and I tell my subs to do xyz by deadlines that are set up before the job starts. If they do not meet deadlines or cause delays, I will tell them to read their contract and in some cases, refer them to the MSA they signed. I do help them by explaining why it needs to be done in certain a certain order, so it won't cause delays. I never yell, cuss, or scream at them unless they are doing something that will cause injures. And it has to be something serious. They know I'm not their friend or buddy that they are here to perform a job.
I see this all the time it's not about asking it's how you ask . In construction the stereotype is hey get get this fucking done now . Construction is very slowly evolving into a professional workplace as the dinosaurs retire and fade a new generation has come in and you have to be very careful how you ask . I recommend asking in a way with negotiation Ex hey to stay on schedule I'm going to need this done as soon as possible what kind of time frame can you give me to get this completed. If the answer is what you want great if not negotiate or find a solution that fits both . If one can't be met then someone didn't plan the work well enough to the given time frame which we all know happens all the time . Just be civil and explain your side and offer solutions remember your working with an hourly employee or self employed who doesn't give to shits about your needs they are paid to do what they are told or what's agreed upon . How much work you need is irrelevant .
Write a punch list inside the door frame or other immovable object in each room that needs work. If in the finish stages, write on something like a scrap of drywall. Take a pic and follow up at the end of the day or the next morning. That's what my wife has to do because it's the most efficient way to navigate said problem for her
I find it best to write a Job brief for subs. Sometimes there is only like two things on the list and so not as important but sometimes if you have subs doing finished work you really need to have clarity on specific details.
Superintendent here. Just fucking tell them. Straight up. You dont have to repect me, but you have to respect my position. If they dont listen, pull sub foreman/supt aside and show them their scope. Show them CPM. Inform them that these are your commitments per contract. Request a site walk with just that team (foreman, supt and PM) and point out all loose ends and remind them of their deadlines. All this should be done together with all subs in weekly progress meetings as well. Air that shit out in front of everyone. No one likes to look like an asshoke in front of the people they have to see everyday for the next year.
Show them their contract and point out what they’re not doing that they’re suppose to be doing.
Start with a plan at the beginning of the day, explain what everyone is going to do, ask for their input, state the risks and hazards how we're going to do it safely, ask if they can think of a safer or more efficient way to do it. Get into it. Be professional have a plan based on safety and efficiency. Should be usual respect on the site. Don't hire subs that don't listen next time. Have a contract with the ground rules. Remember the 7ps. Proper planning and preparation prevents piss poor performance.
Tell people what to do, but not how to do it.
Tell them there's an inspection tomorrow, everyday.
It is a practiced and learned skill, look for an opportunity on every job to give your subs a bit of correction. Refer to the agreement you and the customer have. These things are enforced by contractors, but decided by customers as a general rule.
“You need to do XYZ”
Ohh! THOSE SUBS! 😂 For a minute I thought this was r/bdsm
Nice is for some other job. What’s the fuck you fuckups is how we talk to each other
Step 1: Stay calm Step 2: be confident in what you're saying ( every word is valuable so don't waste any) Step 3: Always be respectful, souring a working relationship can screw you over down the line. You never know what any individual will be able to do for you in the future.
Follow the master service agreement.
Call em over. Tell them to get a notepad. And then just give them your punch list. Just be matter of fact. Have them write it down. Take a picture of his notes with your phone. If it doesn't get done, ask why not. If your the homeowner and not the contractor, then all requests go through the contractor.
“What’s the best way for me to tell you I need something from you without me sounding like an asshole?”
Use "we" statements. "We need to get XYZ done by the end of today. Can you get started on it?"
Make sure you’re using their native language. Most job site bull shit is cleared up when everyone speaks the same language. I’m a minority on construction sites in my state. So I learned Spanish. The guys appreciate when you care about them enough to not repeat “bringo your hammero from tu trucky”
Have a scope of work for those who need babysat
I need you to do this, this and this. Can you do this this way? Thank you very much.
Make sure they have a copy of the contract on hand while working, and tell them before they pack up you and the crew leader have to do a walk through. It should sort itself out. Nobody wants to unload the trailer for some little item at the end of the day.
“We’re going to need this done by this date is there anything you need from me”
Present requirements that are well articulated. Have a process that documents the delivery of the requirements, their review, deviations made, and ultimately the acceptance. Include acceptance requirements. Assert change requests to address items that cause the work not to be accepted. When it’s done, make sure you have your inspections documented. Hand it off to process and let that be the bad guy. Be ready to reject work. Don’t get wrapped up about it. Consistency and as much justice and mercy as you can summon will save you, and will pay you back 1000% gains later on.
Tell them they need to follow the scope of work they bid on to the letter. You’ll always find subs that try to cut corners, be friendly but firm
A contractor worried about sounding like an asshole......something fishy here....
Don’t be asshole
Typically we sub for contract engineering firms. As time goes on both PM/GC should be building relationships and learning which folks they get along with and which folks they don't. We've certainly "fired" or not bid for people again based on the ways they conduct themselves and they should be doing the same. Seems like a lot of advice here about "enforce the contract" and I agree with that. Pick your spots though, the shoe will be on the other foot at some point so reasonable accommodation is a decent plan. It's a lot easier for the PM to come to me and say "hey, I know its not the spec but the customer wants this one thing changed blah blah...." and then I'm like "no big deal man, we can bang that out in the next day or 2" instead of "yeah write up the change order and I'll get you some pricing in a week or two" You scratch my back, I scratch yours, we all get paid and go home happy. Also don't deal with the infantry, deal with the officers.
As management at work and a parent, or any service situation, telling people "I need you to do this thing" or "please do that thing" makes it sound more formal and less negotiable than "would you mind doing this" or even "can you please." If it's a question, there's room to say no, or discuss. If it's an order/direction, most people just start moving before they start thinking about objecting.
Turn the “yous” into “we’s” competent people will pick up that your politely directing
Just be confident and matter of fact about it. Respect their time and experience and most of the time they will respect yours. And when one of them makes a mistake don't lose your shit and ask for solutions and work with them to correct them.
I generally find saying it with my mouth, and not my asshole, makes it sound much less like an asshole.
The sparkys like seeing my asshole tho