Navigating A Challenging Market- Success Stories from MBA Members

Welcome to a new feature brought to you by the MBA of Pierce County. Navigating a Challenging Market will feature tips, tricks and success stories from you-the members. In time we hope that you will find this monthly feature to be a valuable resource for ideas, positive local coverage and more. Thank you for reading.

There are Always Risks

Laureen Skrivan,
Wren & Willow, Inc.

In the midst of the downturn, Wren & Willow, Inc. owner Laureen Skrivan found herself moving away from interior design and subcontracting for projects. Instead, she took a risk and got her general contractor license.

“I realized I was just giving away money anytime I handed out another contractor’s card. I decided I can do this. I love remodeling,” Skrivan said. “Just coordinating a project did not seem very financially wise.”

While recognizing it was possibly the worst time to make a big change to business, Skrivan says she didn’t let it get in the way of her goal. 

“I just couldn’t think about that,” she said. “There are always risks. When you are the general contractor you take all the responsibility.  You have to take care of all your sub-contractors and it’s your reputation that is on the line. You are the captain of the ship.”

As a female contractor Skrivan also feels that she has an advantage of having a different perspective. The biggest change she has noticed in the current economy is she spends a lot more time getting to know her prospective client to get the job.

“Slow down, and ask questions. Really get to know what their needs are and how they plan to live in the home. Maybe bring another staff member to see if they hear anything you don’t,” she said.

 Although she has had her share of fallbacks, the transition benefited her company.  She also recommends making sure you invest in your marketing.

“Letting people know you are out there and even declaring to yourself you are still out there is so, so important. I think that it is the best thing you can spend money on. You have to decide what that amount is yourself, but you need to keep up with the market.” Skrivan said.

Bottom Line:  Take time to evaluate if a change to business could benefit your company. Whether it’s adding a new product line, or making a change to what your business does, keep your company visible through marketing.