Why builders should prioritise giving positive feedback to their subcontractor network

When you’re working day-in and day-out on a construction site, the relationship between builders and subbies can make or break the outcome of projects. Many factors impact this relationship, but an easy way for builders to strengthen their relationship with subbies is to provide consistent, positive feedback. We’re here to talk you through 6 reasons for prioritising giving feedback to keep relationships at an all time positive.

  1. Reward those who reward you at tender time

No one gets paid to quote. If a subbie keeps submitting thoughtful and well priced quotes, only to be price checked amongst one of your regulars, they’re going to stop quoting pretty soon. Rewarding those who help you not only expands your network, but can help ensure you’ve always got trade coverage at tender time.

  1. Improve performance and quality of work

Everyone loves having their horn tooted. Recognising subbies for high-quality work motivates them to keep it up. Recognising their efforts will boost morale, and when they feel appreciated, subbies are more likely to go above and beyond. It’s a win-win scenario. The subbie is praised for their good work and you get better performing subbies. 

  1. Build long-term relationships and create loyalty

It’s no secret that there’s currently a skilled-labor shortage making it hard to retain good subbies. By regularly acknowledging the hard work of your subbies, you can build stronger and more loyal relationships with them. This loyalty means subbies are more likely to prioritise your projects, often leading to better pricing and terms.

  1. Encourage open communication

Remember back to school days when you’d tell your teacher everything was fine but at lunch time you’d be ranting to your friends about everything going wrong? It can be the same on the construction site. When subbies feel supported, they are more likely to open-up about challenges and get help before the small issues become major problems. Having open communication between you and your subbies can save both time and resources.

  1. Develop an environment of continuous improvement

Feedback isn’t only about praise. Constructive feedback can still be positive, if delivered in a positive manner and with good intent. Constructive feedback can help subbies improve, and having the ability to deliver it effectively will help you to grow a positive reputation, leading to more work and better outcomes.

  1. Influence a positive reputation

This was touched on above, but builders that are known for enabling positive and supportive cultures attract the best subcontractors. Having a good reputation will make it easier to build a reliable network of subbies, contributing to better project outcomes overall. 

The construction industry is facing a lot of challenges so minimising your risk of disruption is critical. Subbies want to work for the guy who will treat them best! Building positive relationships with subbies will improve project outcomes, grow a positive reputation, and lead to greater success.