Construction Accounting Article -
Reconsidering Associations and Trade Shows

Target Audience: Construction Industry Professionals, Construction Accounting Interest, Trade Shows and Associations Interest

Construction Success Story

For years, a homebuilder in a moderately growing market has been receiving invitations to join various construction trade associations or to exhibit at regional trade shows. He’s typically hurled these letters and pamphlets into his circular file. But, with the housing market tightening, he found himself reconsidering these opportunities. He mentioned it to his CPA during one of their monthly meetings, asking whether either or both were worth his time. His accountant, who had worked with many other construction business owners in the past, had some pointed advice, including:

When it comes to trade associations, you get what you give. The contractor won’t get much out of an organization (besides more junk mail) unless he joins a committee or two. There he can get first looks at new business in his area and promote his own construction company while promoting the organization. If the contractor decides to join a national group, he can benefit from the organization’s education and training programs and increase the visibility of his business. There are, however, many construction trade organizations to choose from. He’ll need to find the one that’s most likely to give him the best return on his investment.

Trade shows are anything but a vacation. Here the advisor issued a warning: Heading off to a glitzy hotel or convention center may sound glamorous, but it can be a colossal waste of time if you go in blind. The contractor should have a plan. If he wants to sell spec homes, for instance, he should exhibit photos of his work and be prepared to succinctly discuss why it’s better than that of his competitors. And while he’s there, he can be an attendee as well as an exhibitor. Armed with plenty of business cards, he should visit other booths to start making connections that can lead to contracts or joint ventures. The contractor in this story started small, joining his local chamber of commerce and exhibiting at a local trade show. The effort paid off. He’s now gotten to know several key figures involved with the zoning and permit process in his area. And his appearance at the trade show led to at least two new projects.

Find out how our expertise in construction accounting can add value to your business. Email us or call us at 1 (888) 875-9770.

related links

Construction Newsletters & Articles

Specialized Construction Services

Construction Contract Audits

Construction Resources

Auditing & Accounting

Seminars & Events