You’re great at your trade. People like your work. Maybe you’ve even started getting calls on the side or thought, “I could do this myself.”

If that’s where your head’s at, welcome — you’re in the exact right spot.

Starting a construction business can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff with a toolbox and no parachute. You know how to build walls, run wire, lay tile — but when it comes to running the actual business? That’s a whole different set of tools nobody really teaches you.

Let’s fix that.

Start Small (Even Smaller Than You Think)

There’s this myth that you need to have a name, logo, website, branded hoodie, and two employees before you’re a “real business.”

False. You’re a real business the moment you:

  • Deliver a service
  • Get paid
  • Intend to do it again

Don’t overcomplicate this part. Pick a name (even if it’s temporary), register your business (as simply as possible), and start tracking what comes in and what goes out. Done.

You Don’t Need a Plan. You Need a Direction.

You don’t need a 14-page business plan. What you do need is to know:

  • Who you’re helping
  • What you’re doing for them
  • How much you’re charging

That’s it. That’s your direction.

Three Things To Do This Week

  1. Set up a basic invoice template. Google Docs works fine. Just make it look clean and professional. We’ll systemize later. Be sure to include the following:
    * Your business name and contact info (phone number, email, etc.)
    * The client’s name and contact info
    * An invoice number (just start with #001 and count up)
    * The date the invoice is issued
    * A clear description of the work done or service provided
    * The total amount due
    * Your preferred payment methods
    * Payment terms (e.g., “Due upon receipt” meaning when the work is done, or “Net 15” meaning you’re giving the client 15 days from the day you finish to pay you.)

  2. Start writing everything down. Job notes, quotes, hours worked — doesn’t matter how messy. You need records.

  3. Tell three people you’re taking on work. That’s marketing. Congratulations.

What No One Tells You

Most of the anxiety about starting comes from feeling like you’re not “ready.” Here’s the truth: you’ll never feel ready. But the guys who look like they have it all figured out? They just started earlier and fumbled through it. You’ll get there too.

Also — don’t spend your first month tweaking your logo. No one cares. (Sorry.)

You Got This

Starting your own thing is scary. It’s also one of the most satisfying things you’ll ever do. Keep it simple, stay consistent, and give yourself permission to screw up a few times. That’s part of the deal.

And hey — if you need help, that’s literally why Constromata exists.