Sparky Coach

Sparky Coach

🥇Make money. Build wealth. Be kind. 💰A market wage with a business net profit of 20-35% 📈Increase your net worth 🙏🏻Become the best version of yourself

  1. 2D AGO

    #287 // The Lounge “How To Make More Money Per Month” ft Cam + Crowe

    Cam + Crowe are back on the lounge talking about how to make sure you are making money every month.  The short answer is that there are not many moving parts in a month.  The major components are revenue, COGs, gross profit, other revenue, COO, net profit.  The long answer is that of those major components, there are many nuances + ways to increase your net profit.  Come with us as we break it down.  Enjoy the pod xx  Summary This episode explores how tradespeople and business owners can optimize their monthly profits by understanding and measuring key financial metrics. It emphasizes the importance of job costing, labor efficiency, and strategic cost management to increase net profit. Keywords business profitability, job costing, labor efficiency, trade business, financial metrics, net profit, revenue management, cost control Key Topics Job costing and profitability analysis Labor efficiency and hours management Cost of goods sold and materials management Titles Mastering Monthly Profits: A Trade Business Guide How to Increase Your Net Profit in 30 Days Sound Bites "Measure every job to increase your profit" "Your net profit is what you keep after expenses" "Focus on labor efficiency and job performance" Chapters 00:00 Understanding Revenue and Profit Metrics 07:10 Measuring Job Performance for Profitability 12:09 The Importance of Labor Efficiency 18:54 Analyzing Cost of Goods Sold 24:24 Identifying Patterns in Job Performance 29:10 Strategies for Improving Net Profit

    41 min
  2. 6D AGO

    #286 // Sunday Skool “The Staff Check In”

    Today we run through what would be traditionally known as a “staff performance review”. Personally I prefer to call it a staff check in, but hey let’s face it it’s pretty much the same thing.  This is a form you can send over to them prior to catching up with the goal to get them thinking about how they are performing and what they could be doing better.  We basically want to know how they are going both on and off site, and then set some KPI’s with them on what “doing a good job” looks like. See below a link to our one which I run through in the session so feel free to build your own one the same or similar!   Or if you are feeling lazy you can fill this one out, it will come to us, and then we can send it over to you. LOL.  https://form.jotform.com/230928681456061 Enjoy the podcast! xx  Summary This episode emphasizes the importance of regular staff check-ins over traditional performance reviews. It covers how to conduct effective check-ins, the significance of open communication, and strategies for fostering a positive company culture to retain top talent. Keywords staff check-ins, performance reviews, employee engagement, company culture, staff retention, leadership, communication, professional development Key Topics Staff check-in process and frequency Self-reflection and performance ratings Building strong relationships with staff Market-aware compensation strategies Creating a culture of open communication Takeaways Regular check-ins foster open communication and trust. Self-assessment encourages staff to reflect and improve. Frequent performance reviews (2-4 times a year) are ideal. Understanding market rates helps in fair compensation. Building relationships reduces staff turnover. Titles The 4-Check-In Strategy to Boost Staff Performance How Regular Staff Check-Ins Can Save Your Business Sound Bites "Focus is the most precious commodity." "Market rates should guide pay rises." "Self-reflection is key to improvement." Chapters 00:00 Resetting Focus for Success 00:58 The Importance of Staff Check-Ins 05:11 Navigating Pay Conversations 06:55 Effective Staff Check-In Strategies 12:04 Onsite vs Offsite Performance 17:14 Creating a Safe Space for Communication 20:31 Building Wealth Strategies for Employees   Resources Netflix’s Culture of Paying Well - https://www.amazon.com/No-Rules-Rules-Netflix-Culture/dp/038554477

    24 min
  3. APR 1

    #285 // The Lounge ft Sam Hooper from SBH Electrical

    We are super lucky + blessed to have Hoops be a part of the coaching team here at Sparky Coach.  He is an absolute wealth of knowledge. He has the innate ability + vision to execute items well before they are essential, which for me is why he (personally + professionally) is consistently progressing.  What a time to be alive!  Enjoy the pod x  Summary In this engaging interview, Sam Hooper shares insights on business growth, effective hiring, the importance of holidays, and organic client acquisition strategies. Discover practical tips for managing admin, scheduling large projects, and leveraging SEO to boost your electrical business. Keywords business growth, hiring tips, SEO for electricians, business management, client acquisition, admin support, project scheduling, holiday importance Key Topics Business growth strategies Effective hiring and apprenticeships SEO and online marketing for electricians Titles Mastering Business Growth: Insights from Sam Hooper The Art of Hiring: Building a Strong Electrical Team Sound Bites "Outsource admin early to free up your time." "Invest in SEO for consistent lead flow." "Hire the right people, not just anyone." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Reflections 03:05 The Importance of Taking Breaks 06:08 Delegating Administrative Tasks 09:03 Balancing Service and Project Work 11:59 Building Client Relationships 14:50 Networking and Business Growth 23:25 The Evolution of Catering at Yorwan 24:23 Navigating Staffing Challenges in Trade Businesses 25:35 The Role of Apprentices in Workforce Development 27:00 Leveraging Social Media for Recruitment 28:16 The Impact of SEO on Business Consistency 30:34 Understanding the Value of Paid Advertising 32:07 Building Trust in Business Relationships 33:56 Finding and Training Quality Apprentices 39:48 Strategizing for Business Growth 42:46 The Importance of Hiring Right

    46 min
  4. MAR 30

    #284 // The Crowe Show “How To Make $100,000 An Hour”

    Ok ok so the title here may be a little misleading but in all seriousness is it?  So many times in business we “walk past” the 1%ers, the 5%ers, the $100’s, the $500’s, the conversations, the phone calls, the sentences etc etc that can generate revenue and drive profits.  It’s time that we stop, collaborate + listen (Vanilla Ice style!) and pick up the easy $$ + low hanging fruit.  Hope you enjoy the pod xx  Summary In this episode, Crowey shares candid insights on how business owners can maximize profit, minimize losses, and effectively scale revenue. He emphasizes the importance of detailed processes, clear communication, and disciplined financial management to unlock higher earnings and business sustainability. Key topics: The real battle in business: making money and not losing moneyIdeal profit margins across different revenue levels (20-35%)The significance of measuring net profit on every job and monthHow small expenses and overlooked conversations can erode profitabilityThe power of timely quotes, follow-ups, and in-person communicationsThe impact of mindset: speaking confidently and handling variations assertivelyStrategies for effective job planning, handling, and post-job analysisThe importance of early and honest conversations to prevent lossesHow to avoid keeping average staff that erodes profitThe value of disciplined quoting, invoicing, and tracking all variationsWorkflow tips: walking through projects, taking notes, and close scope managementBuilding confidence by not belittling small amounts or conversationsThe necessity of early intervention and avoiding emotional decisionsBusiness mindset: profit first, detailed focus, and proactive communication Timestamps 00:00 - The challenge of making $100,000 an hour: business as a battle to maximize profits  00:55 - Optimal profit margins based on revenue scale (20-35%) and how to aim for more  01:23 - Why 'more' is always better when charging rates and margins  02:50 - The critical role of driving revenue and keeping what you earn  03:48 - How higher revenue correlates with higher profits—think big  04:17 - Measuring and improving your company's ability to drive revenue and profit  05:16 - The importance of not belittling small expenses or small conversations  06:15 - How small oversights in invoicing and crediting can cost thousands  07:44 - The impact of handling variations and scope changes assertively  08:44 - Building a detail-oriented, profit-focused company environment  09:39 - Real-world story: losing a $23,000 opportunity due to poor follow-up  10:35 - How effective communication and follow-up win jobs and foster trust  11:32 - Learning from mistakes: the cost of insecurity and delays  12:58 - The power of a strong first impression and winning repeat business 13:27 - The importance of site walkthroughs, notes, and scope clarity 15:48 - The mindset of continuous improvement and handling insecurities 17:44 - The cost of over-optimism and undercommunicating during projects 22:27 - The three stages of a job: front costing, handling, and back costing 23:50 - Understanding unpredictable variables in electrical work and project handling 26:14 - The importance of timely quotes, follow-up, and in-person communication 28:48 - The art of conversations: avoiding over-talking and closing variations 29:17 - The formulaic approach to quoting, invoicing, and profitability 32:00 - Emotional versus disciplined quoting: formulas for success 33:38 - Starting or finishing jobs with proper planning and team management 34:34 - Why keeping average staff costs you revenue and future profit 36:02 - The power of early conversations, early intervention, and hard truths 36:59 - Business as a balance of making money and avoiding losses 37:28 - The need for parameters, scripts, and discipline in sales and communication 38:27 - Final encouragement: drive revenue, maximize profits, and protect your business Resources & Links:

    39 min
  5. MAR 28

    #283 // Sunday Skool “Building Out A CRM”

    Today on Sunday Skool Joey walks us through how to create a basic CRM (Client Relationship Management).  This kind of tool is essential when reaching out to new businesses (whether it’s a warm reach out, hot chip in or cold as ice).  What’s colder than ice? Oxana. Lol.  We have a sheets template that I would be happy to send over if you need one, but yeh enjoy the session as Joey runs you through the concept and how to components.  Of course you can also use excellent ones through ready made apps such as GHL, Monday, Click Up, Asana etc.  Enjoy the pod xx  Title:  Building a Basic CRM in Google Sheets for Client Hustling Hook: In this episode, Joey walks us through creating an effective yet simple CRM using tools like Google Sheets and ClickUp. Perfect for small businesses or solo operators, this method helps you organize and track your client outreach, especially when prospecting for new work. Key Topics: Definition and purpose of a CRM for small-scale hustlingTools comparison: ClickUp, Google Sheets, Excel optionsStep-by-step process for building a custom CRM sheet in Google SheetsImportant columns: Client Name, Contact Info, Stage, Next Contact Date, Notes, Client TypeUsing dropdown menus for stages, contact methods, and client categoriesSetting up conditional formatting for follow-up reminders (dates highlighted in colors)Strategies for sourcing prospective clients: VA data mining, social media, in-person spottingPractical example: contacting kitchen installers in the Sunshine Coast areaTips for maintaining and updating the CRM: drag-and-drop, date tracking, notes collection Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to CRMs and their role in client prospecting 00:30 - Explaining what a CRM is and how it helps in finding new clients 01:00 - Overview of popular CRM tools like Monday, Podium, GHL, Salesforce 01:30 - Demonstration of building a basic CRM in Google Sheets 02:29 - Structuring the CRM: Boards, stages, contact info, client types 03:04 - Using Google Sheets to track builders, accommodation, aged care, etc. 04:01 - Example of a client pipeline sheet setup in a workbook 05:18 - Setting up dropdowns for stages, contact methods, client categories 12:02 - Color coding stages for visual clarity 16:13 - Conditional formatting based on contact date to indicate urgency 19:06 - Automating date formats and follow-up scheduling 21:21 - Practical sourcing ideas: VA data, Instagram, in-person spotting 22:37 - Building outreach in real-time: a scenario with kitchen installers 26:40 - Tracking successful contacts and planning follow-ups 28:21 - Final tips for maintaining and updating the CRM effectivelyResources & Links: ClickUp — Project management tool used for more advanced CRM workflowsGoogle Sheets — Free spreadsheet software for custom CRMsExcel — Alternative to Google Sheets for building client tracking sheets Enjoy building your own simple CRM! Stay consistent, customize based on your client types, and use visuals like color codes to stay on top of your outreach efforts.

    30 min
  6. MAR 25

    #282 // The Lounge “Working For The Right Clients” ft Cam + Joey

    We say this all the time, but let’s beat the drums again… The wrong clients are worse than no clients.  Now let’s say it one more time… The wrong clients are worse than no clients.  Ok ok one more time for good measure… The wrong clients are worse than no clients.  It’s all well and good to chase work, but are you chasing the right kind of work?  What happens if you win the work? Do you even want it?  Such an interesting convo tbh.  Today Cam + Joey dive into what to look for in an ideal client, what are the ingredients that make up an ideal client, and the importance of client retention.  In a world that gets swept away with shiny object syndrome, it’s very important to look after the ideal clients and not take them for granted.  Also be careful on who you chase, we all know the wrong clients are worse than no clients!  Enjoy the pod xx  Summary In this episode, Sparky Coach Group and Joey discuss how to identify and attract the right clients for your business, focusing on defining your ideal client, maintaining profitable relationships, and effective communication strategies. Keywords client acquisition, business growth, client relationships, profitability, communication, business strategy Key Topics Defining your ideal client Identifying your most enjoyable work The concept of gold star and gold standard clients Importance of communication and process Profitability and client relationship management Titles How to Find and Keep Your Ideal Clients: 10 Proven Strategies The Gold Standard Client: Building Profitable Relationships Sound Bites "Enjoyment and challenge are key to client satisfaction." "Good clients are generally easy and good to deal with." "Understanding your numbers is key to profitability." Chapters 00:00 Finding the Right Clients 03:00 Defining Your Ideal Client 05:50 Gold Star and Gold Standard Clients 11:41 Building Strong Client Relationships 17:18 Profitability and Client Value 23:22 Navigating Difficult Conversations 27:09 Adapting to Changing Client Needs

    31 min
  7. MAR 23

    #281 // The Crowe Show “There’s No ‘I’ In Invoicing”

    On the weekend I was going through my notes folder and I noticed some dot points from an “invoicing” session I delivered maybe almost 5 years ago to this date.  It definitely jumped out to me so I thought I would listen the trade gods and share all my thoughts in and around all things invoicing.  So here’s a fresh take on one of my fave subjects!  Enjoy the pod xx  Mastering Invoicing: How to Make It the Best Part of Your Week Join us as Crowey shares his raw, honest insights on how efficient invoicing is crucial for cash flow, business growth, and personal well-being. Learn practical tips and mindset shifts to transform invoicing from a burdensome task into a productive and even enjoyable process. Key Topics: The core principle: If there's a problem with your invoice, there's a problem with your processWhy invoicing is the most critical part of your business - cash flow equals survivalCommon pitfalls like getting behind and how to avoid themThe importance of regular, consistent invoicing (preferably weekly)How to ensure your invoice matches the scope of work and the project notesThe significance of early communication and addressing issues proactivelyStrategies for delegating invoicing tasks to save time and increase accuracyThe emotional barriers around making money and how to overcome themThe role of systems, checklists, and proper documentation in business healthThe 80-20 principle: focusing on invoicing and quoting to drive 80% of your business results Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Why invoicing doesn't take a holiday, even on your birthday 00:29 - The importance of sitting on what you do and the lesson from recurring notes 01:22 - Main takeaway: Problems with invoices reflect issues in your process 01:51 - The relationship between invoice accuracy and process integrity 02:44 - The reality of getting busy and the first things to go: invoicing and quoting 03:14 - The importance of timely invoicing to ensure cash flow 04:13 - Weekly invoicing: the cornerstone of financial discipline 05:03 - Diversifying work to safeguard against market fluctuations 06:27 - How market shifts (e.g., COVID, economic tightening) affect different sectors 07:25 - The significance of project diversity and resilience in business 08:51 - The story of a small job turning into a key client 09:49 - The importance of consistent invoicing and not letting small jobs slip through the cracks 10:37 - Stop making excuses: invoicing is the business’s bloodline 11:44 - The benefits of networking and building relationships (BNI experience) 12:09 - The consequences of not having enough work and how to stay proactive 13:07 - Playing the long game: the power of referrals and diversifying clients 14:22 - Be cautious of the “cult” of networking groups and focus on genuine relationships 15:52 - The role of a holistic business mindset and varying industry backgrounds 16:46 - Pricing systems: the benefits of cost-plus and wholesale rates 18:14 - The importance of confronting your emotional barriers around money and success 19:38 - Invoicing should be the most fun part of your week – shift your mindset 20:37 - Regular communication with clients about invoices can prevent issues 22:02 - Making invoicing straightforward and positive, not stressful 23:23 - The power of clarity and transparency: check invoices before sending 25:46 - Fault-finding in invoices like resolving electrical faults—apply similar logic 27:10 - Early intervention and communication to prevent invoice disputes 29:34 - Invoicing for progress: the importance of invoicing for work completed 32:54 - The process of closing the week to maintain business health 34:15 - The seed time and harvest

    55 min
  8. MAR 21

    #280 // Sunday Skool “Deep Dive On Apprentice Rates + Allowances” 

    First and foremost, keep in mind we are not Fair Work or any governing body (although we are self appointed + self anointed from the trade gods lol). This session is meant for information + awareness purposes only.  Now that the formalities (or disclaimers) are out of the way, let’s get down to Sunday Skool business.  Today Cam runs us through the following: -apprentice wages overview base weekly rate, electrician licenence allowance, tool allowance and industry allowance which form the all purpose weekly rate - in turn = an all purpose hourly rate. -all purpose hourly rate applies to ordinary hours and overtime hours -run over apprentice travel and vehicle allowances and when they apply -overview of when travel and vehicle allowances apply - depending on how they travel and where they start. Enjoy the pod! xx Useful link https://library.fairwork.gov.au/viewer/?krn=K600061 Understanding Apprenticeship Wages and Allowances - Sunday School Session with Cam In this episode, Cam breaks down the essentials of apprenticeship wages, allowances, and travel entitlements as outlined by Fair Work Australia. Whether you're an employer, apprentice, or supervisor, get clarity on minimum rates and key guidelines to ensure compliance and operational efficiency. Main Topics Covered: How to calculate base weekly wages for apprentices at different levelsBreakdown of all-purpose allowances including license, tools, and industry allowancesHow allowances are included in hourly rates for overtime and penaltiesDetails on travel allowances for start, finish, and travel between sitesReal-world examples illustrating entitlement scenarios for apprenticesTips on standardizing policies to simplify operations and meet minimum standards Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome and overview of apprenticeship wage basics 00:31 - Clarifying what apprentices are entitled to under Fair Work rules 01:01 - Understanding the base weekly rate and allowance components 02:01 - Apprentice categories based on year and age 02:28 - Breakdown of allowances: electrician license, tools, and industry 03:43 - How allowances are added to form the all-purpose weekly rate 05:02 - Calculation of hourly rates from weekly allowances 06:08 - Travel time allowance rules and conditions 07:13 - Examples of allowances for site travel with employer-provided vehicles 08:05 - Clarification on allowances related to start, finish, and travel between sites 12:05 - Scenarios: when allowances are paid and when they are not 13:15 - Example of allowances based on distance and transport method 14:18 - Real-world case: employee using own vehicle for various distances 15:33 - How to interpret allowances for different work situations 16:44 - Mileage reimbursements and incidental expenses 17:13 - Key metrics for compliance and operational consistency 19:51 - Summing up: starting/finishing on site and distance considerations 20:38 - Tailoring policies for project-based vs service work 22:40 - Emphasizing the importance of meeting minimum Fair Work standards 24:20 - Final tips

    25 min

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🥇Make money. Build wealth. Be kind. 💰A market wage with a business net profit of 20-35% 📈Increase your net worth 🙏🏻Become the best version of yourself

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