We have a Contractor Dilemma winner!

In our January/February contest, we described how Andy Roy’s year-end bonus program in 2018 came off the rails — likely too complicated and with too much emphasis on areas outside each individual’s control. That resulted in finger-pointing and unhappiness. Andy wants a system that will “pump up” his team for 2019. What should he do?

Virtually every respondent felt that Andy should live up to his bonus payouts for the past year, but rethink his plan going forward. Our panel felt a more simplified approach was required, one that involved employee input and feedback in some form. Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all program. Each company involved in residential housing has different management processes that often vary based on size.

There were several dozen excellent proposals submitted. In the end, however, only one could be the winner. Our panel selected the ideas put forward by Bob Zimmerman of Glacier Drywall Systems Inc., of Calgary AB.

Bob suggested a bonus reward system based on corporate goals set out at the start of the year. As he explained, the system must “be measurable to remove bias, and to the greatest degree possible, the worker or supervisor must have control” over the areas measured. Progress towards those key corporate milestones and the associated financial rewards should be discussed quarterly, not annually. Employee feedback, expressed with confidentiality if necessary, should also be part of the program.

Congratulations, Bob. You will receive a DEWALT DCN662D1 20V Cordless XR Brushless Straight Nailer (Retail value $499) This cordless straight finish nailer with its brushless motor drives 16 Gauge straight finish nails from 1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″, ideal for fastening baseboards, door/window casing, and crown molding.

Stay Tuned!
Next week, we will outline several excellent ideas brought forward by other respondents. Many of these might be helpful to your company as a way to motivate and reward your employees.