There are many cases where individuals may look to run some portion or even all of their primary business out of their home, and there are some situations where this approach may be ideal for contractors and their businesses. Whether you're just starting out and building a customer base, looking to decrease overhead or any other reason, running your business from home may be an option - but there are also some important areas to check on first.

At Contractors School, we're proud to offer a huge range of services for contractors around Utah, including contracting business set-up, existing business management and more. Here are some of the main factors to be checking on if you're considering running your business out of your home, either temporarily or permanently, plus some important tips on how to approach this in robust, professional ways.

Zoning and Licensing Ordinances

The first major step here: Simply ensuring that you are legally allowed to run your business from home in the first place. Depending on where you live and what type of contractor work you do, there may be specific zoning ordinances that prohibit businesses from operating out of residential areas - or there may be licenses or permits required to do so.

Check with your local government offices for information on these details before making any moves. If you're unsure whether your business fits into a specific category or need more information on the zoning laws in your area, there are also tons of resources online that can help you navigate this process.

Insurance Considerations

Assuming you're cleared for operation and have taken care of any necessary legal steps, the next major question to consider is insurance coverage. If you're currently renting or leasing your home, you'll need to make sure that your business activities are covered under this policy. Even if you own your home, it's still important to review your insurance coverage and determine if any additional policies or riders may be necessary to protect both your personal and business assets.

For instance, if you'll have clients coming to your home for meetings or consultations, it may be beneficial to add liability coverage to your policy. This will protect you in case of any accidents or damages that occur on your property while conducting business.

Equipment and Supply Storage

One potential challenge when running a contracting business from home is the need for equipment and supply storage. Depending on the type of work you do, these items may take up a significant amount of space, which could be disruptive to your home life.

Before making any decisions to operate out of your home, consider if you have adequate space for storage and whether it will be manageable for both work and personal use. If not, you may need to look into alternative options such as renting storage units or finding a separate workspace.

Meeting and Consultation Space

As you're establishing your contracting business, you'll likely need to meet with clients and potential customers from time to time. This is another area where working from home may present challenges, as you may not have a dedicated meeting space or room for consultations.

If this is the case, you may want to consider setting up a designated area in your home for meetings or investing in virtual meeting software to conduct consultations remotely. Additionally, if you're able to find a nearby co-working space or conference room rental option, this may be a more professional setting for important business meetings.

Separating Work and Personal Life

Finally, one of the biggest considerations when running your contracting business from home is being able to separate your work life from your personal life. Working from home can blur the lines between work and home, making it difficult to switch off at the end of the day.

To combat this, make sure you have a designated workspace and set clear boundaries for your work hours. It's also helpful to create a daily routine that includes breaks and time for self-care outside of work. This will help maintain a healthy balance between your personal and professional life.

As you can see, running a contracting business from home can have many benefits, but it's important to carefully consider and plan for potential challenges. With the right approach and resources, you can successfully operate your business from home while maintaining a professional and efficient operation.

At Contractors School, we're here to support you with all of your contractor needs around Utah - contact us today to learn more about how we can help!

It's a simple reality that unexpected things can happen in the world of contracting and construction, and one term that it's vital for contractors to be aware of here is liability. Both contractors and clients alike need to know how to protect themselves in this area, and in the case of contractors, this means being fully familiar with your state and local guidelines so you know when liability may or may not be yours for a given issue.

At Contractors School, we're here to help contractors around Utah with all their needs, from starting a business to managing an existing contracting company and more. Let's look at all the general factors contractors need to be aware of when it comes to liability while on the job, including how to protect yourself and your company.

Contracts Are Vital

There are several reasons why contracts are a must for contractors, with liability being one of the most important. A well-written contract should be detailed and specific, outlining all aspects of the project including materials used, timelines, expectations, payment terms, and more. Having a signed contract in place can help protect both parties in case any issues arise during or after the project.

There are several specific clauses that should be included in a contract to address liability, such as indemnification clauses, hold harmless clauses, and insurance requirements. These will outline who is responsible for any damages or issues that may occur during the project and ensure that all parties have the necessary insurance coverage in case of accidents or injuries.

State and Local Guidelines

As mentioned before, it's crucial for contractors to be familiar with their state and local guidelines when it comes to liability. These regulations will vary from location to location, so it's important to do thorough research and stay up-to-date on any changes or updates. In Utah, for example, contractors are required to have general liability insurance of at least $100,000 for each incident, and $300,000 total.

Furthermore, you should also be aware of any specific regulations or laws that pertain to your particular type of contracting work. For example, electrical contractors may have different liability requirements than general contractors.

Proper Insurance Coverage

Having the right insurance coverage is essential for protecting yourself and your business from liability issues. In addition to general liability insurance, contractors should also consider professional liability insurance, which covers any errors or omissions made during the course of a project. Workers' compensation insurance is also necessary to cover any on-site injuries to workers.

It's important to regularly review and update your insurance coverage as needed, especially when taking on new projects or expanding your business. Make sure you have adequate coverage for the type of work you do and that all policies are renewed and in good standing.

Warranties and Implied Warranties

Another major aspect of liability for contractors is warranties, both express and implied. Express warranties are explicitly stated in the contract and cover specific aspects of the project, such as materials or workmanship. Implied warranties, on the other hand, are not explicitly stated but are assumed to be part of the contract under state laws.

It's important for contractors to fully understand any warranties included in their contracts and to fulfill them as promised. Failure to do so could result in potential liability issues.

Statutes of Limitation

As you're likely aware, there are time limits for filing lawsuits known as statutes of limitation. These can vary depending on the type of lawsuit and the state in which it is filed.

By understanding these limitations and keeping accurate records and documentation, contractors can protect themselves from liability issues that may arise after a project is completed. It's important to keep all records for at least the duration of the statute of limitations, which can range from 3-10 years depending on the state and type of project.

Strict Definitions

Finally, one overarching theme we wanted to really drive home is the importance of strict definitions in contracts and documents related to liability. Vague or ambiguous language can leave contractors vulnerable to interpretation and potential liability issues. Be sure to clearly define all terms, expectations, and responsibilities to protect yourself from any misunderstandings or misinterpretations.

Understanding liability as a contractor is crucial for protecting yourself, your business, and your clients. By following state and local guidelines, having proper insurance coverage, using detailed contracts, and staying informed about the latest regulations and laws, you can minimize your liability risk and focus on successfully completing projects for satisfied clients.

At Contractors School, we provide support and resources for contractors in Utah and beyond, so you can confidently navigate the world of contracting. Contact us today to learn more about our courses and services!

There are a number of important sustainability concepts that contractors will regularly be considering during their work, and water conservation is high on any such list. From sustainability and compliance with local codes to keeping costs low and assisting clients in conservation efforts, proper water conservation on jobsites is vital.

At Contractors School, we're here to assist contractors around Utah with varying needs, from contractor licensure to management of existing contracting businesses and more. Here are some basic tips on why water conservation is an important concept for contractors to be thinking about, plus some of the general approaches used in the contracting world to limit water usage and keep jobsites sustainable.

Why Water Conservation Matters to Contractors

There are several reasons why water conservation is an important priority for contractors. Aside from the obvious benefits to the environment, being mindful of water usage can also bring a number of practical advantages for contractors, including:

Our next several sections will look at basic approaches contractors might consider when it comes to water conservation.

Lowering Water Needs

The simplest and most robust way to reduce water usage on a construction site is by reducing the amount of water needed in the first place. This can be accomplished in several ways:

IDing Alternative Water Sources

Another important concept for contractors to consider is the use of alternative water sources. These can include:

Water-Saving Action Plan

For many contractors, implementing a water-saving action plan can be the best approach to ensure that conservation efforts are taken seriously and followed consistently. This may involve setting goals, tracking water usage, and identifying areas for improvement. With an effective plan in place, contractors can feel confident that they are doing their part to conserve water and promote sustainability on their jobsites.

When creating these plans, it's important to involve all members of the project team and to regularly monitor progress. By working together, contractors can make a significant impact on reducing water usage and promoting sustainability in their industry.

Consider Water-Saving Devices

In some cases, simple changes in tools or equipment can make a big difference in water usage on construction sites. For example, low-flow toilets and faucets can significantly reduce water consumption without sacrificing functionality. Additionally, using drip irrigation instead of sprinklers can be more efficient and targeted for watering specific areas. By investing in these devices, contractors can save money in the long run while also promoting sustainability.

With the right knowledge and approach, contractors can play a crucial role in water conservation efforts. By being mindful of water usage and implementing sustainable practices, they can not only benefit the environment, but also save money and meet client expectations.

At Contractors School, we encourage contractors to incorporate these concepts into their work and contribute towards a more sustainable future. Contact us today to learn about any of our services for contractors around Utah!

There are a few key parties who may often be involved in a given construction project or related need, and each has some specific roles and purposes that it's important to be aware of. Three of the most well-known such entities in the construction world are contractors, project managers and construction managers.

At Contractors School, we're proud to assist contractors around Utah with all their needs, from licensure and starting a business to existing business management and more. Here are some basics on the roles and responsibilities carried out by each of these three entities, plus some key similarities and differences between them.

Contractors

Also often referred to as general contractors, this type of construction professional is responsible for the main coordination, management and oversight elements of a given project. Contractors are hired by clients to handle specific projects or tasks within them - such as building a new home or office building - and will then oversee the work of various subcontractors who specialize in different areas of construction.

It's often simpler to think of the general contractor as the "captain" of the ship, so to speak - they handle the big-picture elements while specific tasks are delegated out. Contractors may also be responsible for some specific tasks:

Construction Manager

When it comes to strategy and overseeing of the entire construction process, construction managers are the ones in charge. They'll work closely with contractors and other parties to develop a detailed plan for building, renovating or otherwise completing a given project.

Construction managers may also be responsible for:

Project Manager

The most flexible and variable of these three roles is the project manager. In some cases, project managers will supersede even the general contractor on a project, managing its broad details; in others, they will be below the GC or even the construction manager, with their role confined to a specific detail or component of the project.

There will often be multiple project managers involved in a given construction project, each overseeing different areas or elements.

Basic Similarities

As you may have already realized just from reading to this point, these three roles have some significant crossover in terms of responsibilities:

Key Differences

At the same time, there are some major differences to note in addition to what we went over above. In terms of timeline, for instance, project managers are usually on board from the start; construction managers might not be, and contractors will often come on once the project design is set.

In terms of ownership, contractors are business owners, while project and construction managers are typically employees or contracted individuals. And in terms of direct responsibilities, contractors oversee everything; construction managers oversee strategies and timelines but not every detail; and project managers may have a very specific focus within the scope of a project.

If you're entering the construction world, understanding the differences and similarities between these three entities will be crucial as you navigate your career path. And if you need any assistance with contractors licensing or other needs, we have you covered at Contractors School. Contact us today to learn about any of our contractor services around Utah!

There are several ways that any business owner should be looking to protect their business, and the potential for recession or similar economic downturn is a great example. Contracting businesses are no exception, and there are a number of things contractors can do to keep their businesses in ideal shape to protect against any recession or similar financial risks.

At Contractors School, we assist contractors around Utah with everything from starting their business to managing an existing entity, and financial wellness to protect against any potential recession risk is naturally an important concept for many of our clients. Here are some simple tips we regularly offer in this area.

Continually Protecting Your Credit

One financial area that's vital no matter what, but could become especially important if a recession hits, is credit. You should be constantly monitoring your business' credit rating, including keeping an eye on any potential red flags or negative marks that may show up unexpectedly. These can include late payments from clients or other issues related to payment processing.

You should also be focused on responsible use of credit for your business, and should avoid overextending yourself. Even if the economy is booming, it's important to maintain good spending habits that don't put too much strain on your business' finances. If an economic downturn does come, having a high credit score and manageable credit will be even more important.

Clear Communication

In many cases, financial issues during a recession don't come from unexpected events, but rather from poor communication or understanding between different parties. This could mean failing to communicate with clients about payment schedules or deadlines, for instance, leading to confusion or late payments that can strain your business.

In some cases, this can even lead to legal disputes or other issues that significantly impact your business' bottom line. To avoid this, make sure all communication is clear and concise, and keep records of these interactions for your own protection in case anything goes wrong.

Maintaining Cash Flow

Especially for contracting businesses that rely on regular payments from clients to maintain cash flow, it's vital to continually monitor and manage this area. You should have a detailed understanding of your accounts receivable and payable at all times, and should be ready to take action if there are any major issues here.

If needed, consider speaking to a financial advisor or consultant who can help you create a plan for maintaining cash flow even in difficult economic times. This may include setting up payment plans with clients or finding alternate sources of income during a recession.

Reliable, Repeat Customers

When it comes to how you position your contracting business in times of recession risk, there may be no more valuable asset than reliable and repeat customers. Not only do these provide a steady stream of income even during tough financial times, but they also offer verifiable references and reviews that can help bolster your reputation and attract new business.

To best foster this kind of customer relationship, always prioritize excellent service and communication with clients. Make sure they know you're there for them and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure their satisfaction – this can pay huge dividends in the long run.

Be Flexible in Processes

One great way to "recession-proof" your business is to give yourself some flexibility in processes and strategies. For instance, consider having multiple suppliers or subcontractors you can turn to in a pinch if your usual options become too expensive during tough times.

You should also be prepared to potentially scale back on certain projects or services in order to save money during a recession. This may mean shifting focus to more profitable areas of your business or finding ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality.

Maintain Strong Marketing

Even if your business is currently doing well and you don't think a recession is imminent, it's still important to maintain strong marketing efforts. This includes both traditional and digital methods, such as creating engaging content or utilizing social media platforms.

Having a solid marketing strategy in place will not only keep your business top-of-mind for potential clients in any economic climate, but it also shows that you are proactive and prepared for any potential downturns.

Protecting your contracting business during a recession or any financial risks requires consistent effort and attention to detail. By following these tips and being proactive in managing your finances, communication, customer relationships and processes, you can help ensure the long-term success of your business.

At Contractors School, we are always here to help Utah contractors with any questions they may have about protecting their business and preparing for potential financial challenges. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in achieving your contracting goals.

There's a misconception out there that dressing for success is only a concept within boardrooms and other settings where a full suit-and-tie getup is required, but this is far from reality. There are actually many fields where dressing properly makes a big impact on both the quality of work and the impression made on clients, and the contracting world is no exception.

At Contractors School, we're here to assist contractors around Utah with everything from their contractor licensure and starting their contracting business to existing contracting business management and more. While many of our services focus on important technical areas like business entity updates, license upgrades and more, we're also here to help with important nuances like these. Why is how you dress important for any contractor and contracting business, and what are some factors to keep in mind as you dress and equip yourself for any job? Here are some basics.

Why Attire Matters for Contractors

There are several major reasons why what you wear as a contractor is important:

So what should contractors consider when dressing for a job? Here are some important factors to keep in mind across our next few sections.

Comfort

One of the first major elements to consider as you choose attire is comfort. This doesn't just mean your personal physical comfort, but also that of the job site and the safety measures in place.

Are there requirements for proper footwear or other clothing? What about extreme temperatures - do you need layers for winter, or does the job call for lighter fabric options during hotter months? Always keep these kinds of questions in mind as you prepare for a job and choose attire accordingly.

Safety

Important elements of safety to consider include slip resistance, visibility, protection from hazardous materials or chemicals, and more. Never cut corners on safety - while you may be able to save money by not investing in proper gear now, the potential consequences far outweigh any benefits.

For instance, if you're working with heavy materials or power tools, sturdy shoes and gloves are crucial for protecting your hands and feet. In contrast, if the job site is located in a high-risk area or involves working near busy traffic, high-visibility clothing can help prevent accidents.

Condition of Clothing

Both for safety reasons and for making a strong impression on clients or customers, it's important to keep your attire in good condition. This means replacing any worn-out or damaged gear as needed and keeping clothes clean and free of stains.

Color

There will be many settings in which color is not particularly important for contractors, but in some situations it can matter. In particular, if you're wearing high-visibility clothing or need to be easily identifiable on a job site, choosing bright colors can help with this.

For example, if you're involved in road construction, bright orange or yellow gear can help drivers spot you more easily. Similarly, if you're working in a hazardous area where other contractors may also be present, distinct colors can help prevent confusion.

Have a Suit Handy

While your daily project responsibilities may not always warrant dressing up, it's important to have at least one professional outfit ready for meetings or any situations where you'll be requesting permits or licenses. A suit is also ideal if you're bidding for an important contract or meeting with a potential client for the first time.

Dressing appropriately is important for any contractor, whether you're just beginning your contracting journey or have been in business for years. It's not just about making a good impression on clients and customers, but also about staying safe and maintaining professionalism. Consider all of these factors as you select attire for each job, and remember that dressing for success can encompass much more than just a suit-and-tie.

At Contractors School, we're committed to providing comprehensive support for contractors across Utah. Contact us today to learn about our services and how we can help you succeed in your contracting business. Let's work together towards success!

There are a few modern concepts that can have a big impact on contractors and contracting businesses in a given area, and one that's especially relevant for contractors around Utah currently is known as urban renewal. What exactly does this term refer to, and how should contractors around the state be thinking about it?

At Contractors School, we're here to offer numerous services to contractors around Utah, from licensure exam courses and DOPL applications to many elements of running a contracting business. Let's look at what we mean when we talk about urban renewal, how it impacts contracting needs in both residential and commercial spaces, and what contractors should be thinking about when their location is experiencing a period of urban renewal (like Utah is currently).

Defining Urban Renewal

The concept of urban renewal dates back to the industrialization of the country in the early 1800s, and speaks to what happens when common and or major buildings in a given city get old or outlive their usefulness. In an effort to create a better living environment for citizens, or to fulfill certain commercial needs in the area, urban renewal projects are often created with the aim of revitalizing old structures and updating them into much newer versions of themselves.

Urban renewal can impact structures up and down the spectrum, from single-family homes and business structures, to entire neighborhoods that are in need of a facelift. This process is often initiated by the government or an overseeing party, with the aim of improving existing infrastructure while also creating jobs for contractors in the area.

In Utah, for instance, the last few years have seen a dramatic uptick in urban renewal projects being initiated. This means that for contractors, there have been more opportunities than ever to get involved in these types of projects and help improve living conditions and/or commercial infrastructure throughout the area. Our next few sections will go over some general concepts to be thinking about here.

Determining Which Fields Are in Highest Demand

Contracting is a broad umbrella that's made up of numerous different sub-fields, each of which can have very unique needs when it comes to urban renewal projects. To ensure you're getting involved with the sorts of jobs that are in highest demand, and will be most easily attainable for your particular skillset, it's important to do a bit of research into what kinds of infrastructure are most in need during an urban renewal period.

For instance, perhaps the neighborhood you'll be working in most is mostly made up of residential structures that are in need of a facelift. In this case, you may want to focus your search for jobs on things like construction, roofing, plumbing and other areas related to home renovations.

On the flipside, if it's commercial infrastructure that's being targeted for updates during the urban renewal period, you'll want to look for jobs in areas like building construction, electrical work, HVAC systems and so on. Apart from the general research, it's also wise to solicit advice from experienced contractors and business owners who have experience in this field. This will provide a more targeted look at what kind of urban renewal projects are most in demand in your key services.

Positioning Yourself Ideally

Here are a few broad tips for making sure your contracting business is in position to reap rewards from urban renewal in your area:

Your Own Office Costs May Rise

Urban renewal is a process that often leads to rising costs in terms of housing and office space. This means that for a contractor, the cost of renting, buying or leasing an office could go up significantly over time.

It's important to factor this into your budget when you're planning your business plans around urban renewal projects - and also consider whether or not it makes sense to move away from locations where rent prices may be rising faster than you can afford.

Ultimately, urban renewal is an important concept to understand as a contractor in Utah and other areas that are undergoing revitalization efforts. By keeping these concepts in mind and staying up-to-date on the latest developments, contractors will be well prepared for success during this period of transition. Whether it's for residential or commercial projects, understanding how to position yourself for the best opportunities can make a huge difference in your contracting business.

Of course, if you need help getting up-to-date on licensure or other requirements during this time, Contractors School is standing by with a wide variety of services and resources to help keep your business running strong during periods of urban renewal in Utah and beyond. Reach out to us today to learn more!

Many people experience nerves or some anxiousness ahead of different forms of tests or exams, and those preparing for a contractor license exam are often no exception. There's nothing wrong with being a bit nervous before an important date like a contractor license exam, and there are also some basic strategies you can take to calm your nerves and perform optimally.

At Contractors School, we're proud to assist contractors around Utah with obtaining their contractor license, from pre-license courses and continuing education programs to DOPL applications and more. Here are some of the most effective ways to manage and control your nerves ahead of an important contractor license exam day.

The Value of Classes

While some of the primary value of pre-license courses like those we offer at Contractors School is to provide basic knowledge and expertise, these classes also give applicants the opportunity to become familiar with and practice the format of the contractor license exam. Knowing what the test will look like ahead of time gives a contractor's license applicant an advantage, since they can more easily determine where their weaknesses are in terms of knowledge or confidence, and then take steps to address them prior to taking the actual exam.

Furthermore, this kind of practice and repetition is often helpful with soothing nerves, as the applicant develops a greater familiarity with the format and structure of the contractor license exam.

Know What to Expect

Even beyond the individual tenets of the exam itself, there are some other elements you can take the time to prepare yourself for. Knowing the format of the exam room, what types of questions you're likely to receive and even where to park can be a major help in calming nerves ahead of taking the contractor license exam.

Once again, pre-license courses can be a helpful resource in this regard, as they can provide details on what to expect from the test and even guidance on how best to approach it.

Consider Optimal Test-Taking Strategies

When it comes to the actual completion of the contractor license exam, there are several strategies you can employ to maximize your performance and reduce nervousness. For instance, it often helps to read questions carefully before looking for answers, as this provides an important opportunity to make sure you understand exactly what the question is asking.

Furthermore, consider breaking down each question into two parts: firstly, identifying any key words in the question that can help you to focus your answer, and secondly, reading all of the pre-defined answers to determine which best matches with your understanding of the given problem.

You might be surprised at how much your nerves will be calmed if you simply enter the test with a firm plan for tackling the questions and a comprehensive understanding of what to expect.

Talk to Someone About Your Anxieties

Whether it's a friend, a family member or even a contractor license instructor, talking to someone about your anxieties can be an incredibly effective way of calming yourself ahead of taking the exam. It's also often helpful to share exam-related questions and thoughts with those who have already taken the test, as these experienced individuals can provide valuable advice on how best to prepare for any given section.

In many cases, you might realize that certain fears you have are unfounded - say, that the contractor license exam is too difficult - while other concerns may require more focused preparation, such as understanding particular areas of the law. In either case, talking openly with someone about your anxieties can help to ensure that you're as prepared and composed as possible ahead of taking your contractor license exam.

Be Positive

We know this may sound cliche to some, but confidence is essential when dealing with nerves ahead of taking any kind of exam, and the contractor license test is no exception. Confidence should not be mistaken for arrogance, however - rather, it's about believing in yourself and your ability to pass.

No matter how much preparation you've done or which pre-license courses you've taken, a positive attitude can be the difference between success and failure. Furthermore, optimism can have a tangible effect on calming your nerves before taking the contractor license exam.

At Contractors School, we understand that many of those preparing for their contractor license exams are likely to experience some level of nervousness or anxiousness ahead of test day. That's why we offer pre-license courses and continuing education programs to give Utah licensure applicants the confidence they need to succeed, and to help them manage their nerves ahead of taking the exam.

If you have any further questions about how best to prepare for your contractor license exam, please don't hesitate to get in touch with us today.

There are a few important parts of running a contracting business that are found outside the actual labor itself, and writing is a great example. Whether we're talking about writing proposals, emailing with clients or filling a supplier in on product needs, contractors need to be able to write clearly and concisely to properly convey facts while also not wasting anyone's time.

At Contractors School, we proudly assist contractors around Utah with all their needs, including numerous areas of managing their contracting business. Let's go over the many different circumstances where basic writing skills are valuable for contractors running a business, plus some general tips on how to optimize your business in this area.

Settings Where Writing Skills Benefit Contractors

There are several different circumstances in which contractors who have solid writing skills stand to benefit from them. These include:

Our next several sections will go over some basic tips to maintain quality writing across all these areas and more.

Keep Yourself Organized

One of the broadest yet most important tips we can give you is to stay organized. This means having a method for keeping track of deadlines, client conversations, and supplier needs.

Staying organized also includes knowing when and how to use different written formats such as emails, letters, proposals, and more. Having a system in place for staying organized can help you stay on top of your writing needs without spending too much time on them.

Stay Simple

While some good writing skills are important for contractors, no one is saying you need to be a novelist. Keeping your writing simple and to the point can be just as valuable, since it prevents confusion and ensures that both you and the other party know exactly what is being said.

Having an easy-to-understand writing style helps keep things clear, which is especially important when communicating with clients or suppliers.

Proofread Your Writing

While proofreading isn't a particularly fun task, it is one that can help you immensely with your business. Taking the time to go over emails, proposals or other written documents before sending them off helps make sure there are no mistakes or typos in your writing.

Proofreading also ensures that everything looks professional and put together, which will only benefit you and your contracting business.

Breaking Up Text

In cases where you're writing longer documents such as proposals or contracts, it's important to break up the text for readability. This can mean adding paragraphs, headings and bullet points so that readers don't feel overwhelmed when looking at the document.

Additionally, adding images and diagrams where relevant can help make the document easier to understand and more pleasant to look at. This is especially important when you're dealing with clients, since they may have a limited understanding of what it is exactly that you do.

Highlighting Key Elements

If certain elements of your document are particularly important, you can highlight them to make sure they stand out to the reader. This could mean bolding text or using a different font color for certain words or phrases, depending on the situation and context.

This is especially useful when dealing with contracts, as it helps both parties be aware of any specific elements that should be paid attention to in order to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings when it comes time to sign on the dotted line.

With the right basic writing skills and a little bit of practice, contractors can make sure that all their written communication goes off without a hitch. Taking the time to become proficient with basic writing is one of the most important aspects of running an efficient contracting business.

If you're a Utah contractor looking for help with running any part of your business, including areas like these, don't hesitate to contact us at Contractors School. We're here to help!

People stress about different things ahead of an important date like a contractor license exam, and in some cases memory is a primary concern. Just like with other forms of tests, some people worry that they will struggle to remember important details that may impact their performance on the exam - but there are some simple tactics to take to ensure this isn't a concern for you.

At Contractors School, we're happy to offer numerous resources for contractors around Utah, including contractor license classes, continuing education programs and more. Here are some memory and retention tips or exercises that many people look to when they're trying to retain information and do as well as possible on their contractor license exam.

Taking Detailed Notes

Some people may scoff at the idea of needing notes to remember key concepts, but for those of us who feel our memory isn't where we want it to be, taking detailed notes can be a great way to lay a foundation of knowledge you can look back on and even refer to during the exam. Notes also give you a reference point to study from later on, which can help when it comes time to review.

If you're going this route, think about which note-taking medium makes the most sense for you. You may opt for a digital note-taking system like Evernote, or you might prefer the analog route with a pen and paper.

You should also be thinking about the kinds of things you should include in your notes. Make sure you writing down facts, definitions, formulas other key pieces of information that could be important for the exam.

Underline or Highlight Key Points

As you move through a given text, notebook or other source of information, consider underlining or highlighting key points. For text-based sources like books and articles, you may want to take special care only to highlight those elements that are the most important.

Highlighting can work just as well with digital content sources as it does with physical paper sources. You can also use a different color for each type of concept, making it easier to differentiate between them.

Regular Breaks to Help Retention

If you try to ingest too much information at once, you're likely to forget it just as quickly. To ensure that you remember the material, make sure to take regular breaks between your study sessions.

These breaks don't have to be long - they could be as simple as standing up and taking a quick walk around the block or making yourself a cup of tea. The point is to give your brain a break so it can better absorb the information you're giving it.

Explain Concepts Out Loud

If there are particular concepts you're struggling to retain, try speaking out loud and explaining them in your own words. This will help solidify the concept in your mind, as it's more difficult for you to forget something once you've said it out loud or written it down.

Explaining a concept also helps you assess how well-versed you are on the subject matter. If you find yourself struggling to explain one element, it may be a sign that you need to spend some extra time studying that particular concept.

Flashcard Drills

Creating flashcards and running through them with friends or family can also be a great way to retain information. It's also an effective tool for drilling yourself on concepts and definitions you think are important for the exam.

When you create the flashcards, make sure to include an answer key with correct answers - it won't do any good to quiz yourself if you don't have the right answer! Also, try to stick with one subject or topic at a time. You may be tempted to throw multiple concepts into one set of cards, but this can only confuse things and lead to more stress.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep and memory are inextricably linked. Not only does sleep help you focus better and stay alert during the day when studying, but it also helps your brain to retain information more effectively.

If you don't get enough sleep, not only will your concentration levels suffer, but so too will your memory and ability to learn new skills. Try to stick with a consistent sleep schedule so your body can get into a rhythm. This will help ensure you're getting the restful sleep you need to perform at an optimal level on exam day.

Create Mnemonic Devices or Acronyms

If there are specific concepts, words, formulas or other elements that you know need to be memorized for the test, it may be helpful to create mnemonic devices or acronyms for them. This could be something as simple as "ROY G BIV" - a phrase that helps you remember the colors of the rainbow - or something more complex like an acronym to remember elements of a complicated process.

As you can see, there are many different tactics you can use to help with your memory before taking the contractor license exam. Give these tips a try and remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to retaining knowledge. Good luck and happy studying!

Additionally, if you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to begin, consider signing up for classes at Contractors School! We're here to help contractors around Utah with obtaining their license and managing a fantastic business.