My hat is off to the brave men and women on front lines battling the dreaded coronavirus during this global crisis.

Change and evolution rarely come easily or naturally for an entire company. As the founder and CEO of Next Gear Solutions, I have spent years helping thousands of restoration contractors do one primary thing: drive major change in their business. 

As the economy booms, franchise systems are seeing exponential growth. In early 2018, the International Franchise Association projected franchise sector growth would outpace the rest of the U.S. economy.

Just the other day, my kitchen faucet started leaking. It was a familiar leak. I had seen it happen before, shortly after we built our home. The first time it occurred, the plumber who did the original installation came and fixed it under warranty. 

Chemical use is commonplace in restoration and remediation projects involving water damage and microbial growth. Disinfectants, antimicrobials and deodorizers are often sold in both ready-to-use and concentrate formulations. They can be extremely effective when used according to their product label.

Mechanic’s liens are unquestionably the most powerful, and most poorly-understood collections weapons available to contractors. But like any weapon, they are dangerous, and can backfire on the unwary and the inexperienced.

Years ago, while preparing a project management seminar for the Restoration Industry Association (RIA), I was asked to include a section on upselling strategies. At first I was reluctant, feeling the topic was inappropriate for the subject matter of the course. However, upon presenting the material and seeing the reaction of the audience, I recognized the need.