We all need a helping hand now and then, whether it’s meeting tight deadlines for materials or bringing in extra support for a month-long construction project.

For trade businesses and design-build contractor, building strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers is essential — it’s the foundation for year-round success. Solid partnerships can lead to faster turnarounds, better service quality, and ultimately, happier customers. Here’s how to nurture these relationships for long-term growth and profitability.

Communication: The cornerstone of collaboration

1. Set clear expectations: From the start, ensure everyone involved understands the project scope, their responsibilities, and the standards they need to uphold for your clients.
2. Provide regular updates: Share relevant news or project changes in a timely manner, whether through text, email, phone, or a trade management app. Keeping everyone informed avoids confusion.
3. Maintain open lines of communication: Make it easy for your team to reach you. Whether it’s a concern, a question, or feedback, having accessible channels fosters trust and efficiency.
4. Respond promptly to issues: When challenges arise, address them quickly to prevent delays or bigger problems down the line.

Trust & responsibility: building a reliable team

1. Be transparent: Treat every team member with honesty and openness, regardless of their position. Share project details and timelines equally.
2. Honor commitments: Respect flows both ways. Always ensure schedules, materials, payments, and information are delivered on time to build mutual trust.
3. Show appreciation: Treat subcontractors with the same respect you’d give employees or major stakeholders. Acknowledge their contributions — recognition goes a long way.

Quality over quantity: the key to long-term success

1. Prioritize reliability over cost: When selecting subcontractors, focus on the quality of their work rather than just their pricing. Dependable partners who consistently deliver are worth the investment.
2. Offer support during challenges: Don’t cut ties at the first sign of trouble. Help your subcontractors navigate challenges, just as you’d want support in return.
3. Negotiate fairly: Negotiation is part of the process, but ensure fairness and never sacrifice quality. Strong, respectful terms lead to stronger partnerships.

Leverage technology: streamline your business

1. Use centralized tools: Trade business management software can simplify communication, scheduling, and administrative tasks. This reduces misunderstandings and keeps everyone aligned.
2. Track performance: Modern tools allow you to monitor your team’s work and offer constructive feedback, helping improve efficiency and outcomes.
3. Simplify processes: Apps like Powered Now enable seamless management of invoices, quotes, schedules, certifications, and more. These tools not only improve internal coordination but also enhance your professionalism in the eyes of clients.

Moving forward: maintaining relationships beyond projects

1. Stay connected: When a project ends, don’t sever ties. Keeping in touch ensures you can work together again in the future if needed.
2. Show gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate your subcontractors’ efforts throughout the partnership to foster goodwill and collaboration.
3. Offer referrals: If someone has been exceptional, recommend them to others in your network. Helping them grow their reputation solidifies your own as a trusted partner.

Building strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers isn’t just about securing the best deal or fastest deliveries; it’s about creating long-lasting partnerships that drive success for both your business and theirs.

By cultivating trust, maintaining clear communication, leveraging the right tools, and fostering transparency, you can create a network of reliable trade professionals ready to work with you for years to come.