resources. Realize that some people are
just not a good ft for certain jobs, re-assign
or terminate employees that show they can't
meet communicated standards. This sends
the message to the entire team that everyone
needs to "pull their weight" for the company
to succeed.
QR : Do you have a theory on "leading
by example"?
DAVE: When managers talk about a posi-
tive attitude, are they displaying one? Pretty
obvious, but often not done. When they talk
to a prospect in the ofce, do they follow
the company script? And do they get in the
trenches with their people? Leading by ex-
ample is crucial to developing a team of high
performers.
QR : How does a manager focus on
actions that drive growth and proft?
DAVE: Too many mangers stay in their ofce
to do paperwork, return emails, and just "keep
busy." Stay focused on actions that drive
Your company is doing well? It's the manag-
er. Your company is losing money? It's the
manager. Lead cost is too high? Again, it's
the manager. You have customer complaints?
It's the manager. Your company is growing
or shrinking? It's the manager.
QR : How about some insights on creating
and maintaining standards?
DAVE: Set clear standards and provide
your staf the necessary training and
QR : Dave, give us a quick snapshot
of what makes the diference between
success and failure in the average home
improvement company.
DAVE: Here is the simplest answer I
can provide. There are three reasons for
success or failure in business. You've heard the
"location, location, location" rule for real
estate. In your business, the reason for
success or failure has a similar ring to it –
"the manager, the manager, the manager."
Managing a Remodeling/
Home Improvement Business
A management expert shares his observations
throughout his 25 years in management. Qualifed
Remodeler interviewed Dave Azer, account executive
with Dave Yoho Associates, about the subject of what
remodelers/home improvement companies could do to
raise the quality of their management techniques. Azer
is a management specialist who has spent most of his
adult life working for mid- to large-size companies on
improving business plans and bottom lines.
32 SPECIAL SECTION: HOME IMPROVEMENT PRO | June 2015 QR QualifiedRemodeler.com | ForResidentialPros.com