Starting your own business as an independent contractor is no small feat. If you’re out there working construction and considering going solo, there’s a lot to think about. It’s risky, but if you’re up for it, the rewards can be incredible. Here’s some advice based on a conversation I had and my own experience. Picture us just chatting over a coffee, talking about the real stuff.
The Big Leap: Deciding to Go Out on Your Own
Taking the plunge into being your own boss is probably one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. For one guy I talked to, it was a mix of timing and gut instinct. He worked for a big company in Nashville for a decade as a property maintenance supervisor. When 2020 hit and things got complicated with mandates and new rules, he decided it was time to take control of his work and life.
It wasn’t a snap decision; he had talked it over with his wife and looked at his side hustle—a property maintenance business he’d been building for a few years. He already had a customer base and figured, “Why not?” So, he made the move back to his hometown, where he knew people and had built relationships over the years. And that’s where things started to click.
Lesson here? If you’re thinking of going independent, start laying the groundwork while you’re still working your regular job. Build up your side hustle, make connections, and save up if you can. When the time comes, you’ll be better prepared to make the jump.
Relationships Matter More Than You Think
Another big takeaway? Networking is your secret weapon. Before going independent, this contractor made solid relationships in the industry. When he finally opened his own business, those connections came through. Contractors who knew him or had seen his work started giving him small jobs. They were willing to take a chance on him, and it made all the difference in those first shaky months.
So, don’t underestimate the power of your network. If you’ve got a reputation for being reliable and doing good work, people will remember you. And when you’re starting out, those small jobs that don’t seem glamorous are gold. You take them, you knock them out of the park, and people start trusting you with more.
Humble Beginnings and Hard Work
Don’t be too proud to take any job that comes your way in the beginning. This guy wasn’t too good to mow lawns or wash cars if that’s what it took to keep things moving. That kind of hustle can set you apart when you’re just starting. It’s not always about landing the big gigs right out of the gate; it’s about staying busy, getting your name out there, and building momentum.
Reality check: Running your own show means long hours. It’s seven days a week sometimes, especially at the start. But when you’re passionate about what you do, it won’t feel like a grind. If there’s a day you can’t work on the job site, you might find yourself mowing your own lawn or doing something productive because, well, that’s who you are.
Embrace the Ups and Downs
Striking out on your own comes with ups and downs. There’s a lot of freedom, but it’s also full of uncertainty. One of the guys in our chat said, “Fifty percent of business success is luck.” And he’s not wrong. But there’s also something to be said for putting yourself in a position to take advantage of that luck when it comes.
You have to be adaptable. Sometimes you’ll think you’re on a steady path, and then life will throw you a curveball—a slow month, a tricky client, or unexpected costs. The trick is to stay steady, learn from the hiccups, and keep pushing forward.
Know Why You’re Doing It
Before you dive into being an independent contractor, know your “why.” For some, it’s about being their own boss and taking control of their work-life balance. For others, it’s the joy of working with their hands and seeing a project come to life. Whatever your reason, keep it front and center. It’ll help when the days get long and the challenges come up.
So, if you’re sitting there wondering if you’ve got what it takes, remember this: Preparation, connections, and hard work are your foundation. And don’t forget to bring a good dose of patience and humility. You never know, you might just find yourself doing better than you ever expected.
Good luck out there! You’ve got this.