If a client encounters an issue, they should feel confident that they can reach out to you for a reliable solution.
The Power of Resourcefulness in the Asphalt Business
In the asphalt industry, we’re not just laying pavement—we’re in the service business. Our job is to solve problems for our clients, whether they’re homeowners, business owners, or municipalities. Maybe they need fresh striping on their parking lot, a sinkhole repaired, or an entirely new lot installed. Whatever the issue, they turn to us to get it done.
Most of our clients reach out because they have a problem that needs fixing. It might be a structural issue with their lot or even a simple design change. But what happens when the problem is outside our expertise? Maybe we don’t have the right equipment, or our crew lacks a specific skill set.
What It Means to Be Resourceful
That’s where resourcefulness comes in—it’s the key to both serving your clients and growing your business.
If you can be the contractor who finds a solution for nearly any issue your client faces, you’ll quickly become their go-to expert. And that trust leads to repeat business, referrals, and a stronger reputation in your market.
One of the best ways to expand your capabilities is by building a network of subcontractors and partners. Over the years, I’ve realized that by leveraging these connections, I can offer far more services than I ever could on my own. Now, when a client comes to me with a job that’s outside my direct skill set, I tap into my network to find the right solution—and in doing so, I become their problem-solving hero.
A Real-World Example
One of our best clients manages an apartment community. One day, a resident accidentally crashed into a garage, causing significant damage. Our client, knowing he could rely on us, gave us a call to see if we knew anyone who could handle the repairs.
Because we had already built trust through years of quality work, he didn’t bother calling anyone else—just us. And thanks to my network, I did know someone. I contacted a contractor friend who specializes in this kind of repair, got a quote, added a reasonable markup, and submitted it to my client.
We landed the job with minimal effort, and all I had to do was coordinate the schedule and make sure things stayed on track. The project went smoothly, my friend got more business, we made some extra profit, and most importantly, our client was happy. Since then, we’ve received dozens of similar work orders from that same client.
Being Resourceful to Help Your Own Business
Resourcefulness doesn’t just help your clients—it can also help you navigate tough times.
If your market slows down, or you’re facing aggressive low-bid competition, it’s easy to feel stuck. But thinking outside the box can open up new revenue streams. Here are some simple but effective ideas:
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Offer sign upgrades—replace old stop signs, parking signs, or handicap signs.
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Provide ADA compliance inspections for a fee.
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Sell plastic bollard covers or parking curbs.
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Add site cleanup or handyman services.
I even knew a guy who repurposed his sealcoat tank (after cleaning it out, of course) to spray hydro turf. The tank mixed the ingredients, the pump handled the solution, and the spray wand covered broad areas. That’s resourcefulness in action!
Whether you’re working to become a one-stop shop for your clients or finding creative ways to sustain your business in a slower market, resourcefulness pays off. Keep looking for new opportunities, build strong relationships, and always be the contractor your clients can count on.
