With 2016 on the horizon, you might be thinking about starting a new career as a contractor. If you are planning to start contractor school in 2016, you can start preparing now. Follow these tips to ensure that you are ready to receive a top-notch education in residential or commercial contracting.
Get a Job In Construction
Ready for a new start in 2016? Start building your resume now.
Just because you don’t have your credentials as a licensed contractor doesn’t mean you can’t work in the industry. In fact, many states, such as Florida, require you to have a certain number of years of experience under your belt before you can obtain a license. You’ll learn the ropes in a hands-on way until you’re ready to go to contractor school and obtain your credentials.
Look for jobs that meet your specific needs. For instance, if you plan to take contractor classes online, you’ll have more flexibility in your work schedule. If you have a specific interest, such as remodeling and renovation, look for jobs that align with those interests.
Learn as Much as You Can About Business
Contractors aren’t just trades professionals. They are also business owners. Before you can run your own business, you need to know about accounting, management, leadership, employment law, and dozens of other general and business-specific subjects, so start your informal education in this area today.
Read as much as you can about running a business and making a company profitable. Dedicate a certain amount of time, such as as hour a day, to this pursuit. You might fit it in over your morning coffee or at night after the kids go to bed. Use online as well as print resources to bolster your business acumen.
Save Some Cash
You’ll have to pay for contractor school, but it shouldn’t drain your bank account. In preparation for the expense, start socking away some cash. Look for ways to cut down on your expenses and to save a few bucks. You might also sell personal property you don’t want anymore or research financing for educational expenses.
Now is a great time to research contractor schools. Find out how much your classes will cost so you’ll have a concrete goal in mind.
Find a Mentor
A personal mentor helps guide you down the path to becoming a contractor.
Becoming a contractor is much easier when you have a person in your corner to give you pointers. Whether it’s someone at your new-found job or a member of your community, get in touch with someone who knows the ropes and who can advise you as you work toward your contractor license.
Manage Your Schedule
Maybe you’re already a contractor, but you need to fulfill your continuing education requirements. If this is the case, make room in your schedule for contractor school. You can take your CE classes online so the scheduling can be more flexible. This is also often the cheaper route.
Contractor school is an essential part of your career in this industry. To tackle your CE classes, Browse courses by state.