If you’ve been blaming “lazy workers” or “bad timing” for your hiring woes, this episode will flip the script. Michael Katz and David Katz of Trio Heating and Air join Titans of the Trades again to unpack the real reason most contractors can’t find (or keep) top performers.
And here’s the kicker: it’s not about the labor market. It’s about your company.
Are You Even Ready for Top Performers?
That’s the bold question Michael opens with. Most contractors are chasing A-players without realizing their business isn’t built to support one. Want a sales pro who can close $10M a year? You better have the fulfillment capacity to back it up or they’ll burn out your team.
First Impressions Count: Inside & Out
Walk into Trio’s office and you’re hit with energy: neon signage, real-time data dashboards, upbeat music, and happy people. It’s intentional and it works. Top-tier talent wants to work in places that feel professional, clean, and energized. Michael and David say your office, vans, and online reputation either repel or attract.
Recruiting Is Hunting
Forget job boards. If you’re serious about landing top salespeople, you have to identify them, follow them, and nurture the relationship. David spent three years building trust with a single technician by sending updates, wins, and culture-building moments every month. When that guy was ready to move, Trio was his first call.
Need Someone Now? Activate Your Team.
Can’t wait three years? Implement a killer referral program. Trio pays up to $3,000 for employee referrals and they start with a $250 bonus on Day One. Why? Because it keeps your people engaged in growing the team and removes the gamble of hiring unknowns.
Don’t forget your support staff.
Your call center isn’t a cost center. It’s your front line. Trio’s call center feels like Disneyland. And it pays like a sales team. If you want long-term loyalty from dispatchers and CSRs, invest in their culture and compensation too.
Retention tip: Overpay or Overlove
Keeping top performers is simple. Either pay them more than anyone else will or build a relationship so strong they won’t want to leave. Better yet, do both.
But here’s the truth: None of this works if your culture is trash. If your trucks look sloppy, your systems are chaotic, or your onboarding is a disaster, no A-player will stay.
The real takeaway? Stop hoping for great people. Start becoming the kind of company they want to work for.
Listen to the full episode to learn how to transform your construction business into a magnet for top talent.
Connect With Michael & David:
Website: https://trioheatingandair.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-katz-20b751109/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-katz-999319b5/
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