CSLB Quick Facts

License required for jobs over
$1,000
Minimum contractor bond
$25,000
Journey-level experience
4 years
Current exam passing scores
School-observed: 65% for Law & Business and 63% to 71% for trade exams; CSLB does not publish fixed passing scores

The CSLB oversees 46 contractor classifications in California.

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The 7 Habits of Highly Successful Contractors

By 2 min read

The 7 Habits of Highly Successful Contractors

 

At CSLS, we are proud of the fact that we have been able to help tens of thousands construction professionals to become licensed California state contractors and move their careers in the right direction. As virtually any one of them could tell you, however, becoming licensed is just the first step – there’s a lot more that goes into being successful, both financially and professionally.

Because we want to see you enjoy all the great things that can happen to you as a result of your hard work, here are the seven habits of highly successful construction contractors in California:

1. They do business legally. It goes without saying that successful contractors don’t just become licensed, but then follow the letter of the law when it comes to permits and regulations. The last thing you want holding your business back is a legal or liability issue.

2. They are always marketing. Although earning your California state contractor’s license makes marketing your construction company easier, it still takes a bit of steady work to find and keep clients. Smart contractors know that marketing is an ongoing process.

3. They invest in their own company. Whether it’s getting the right amount insurance coverage, or just continuing education, successful contractors invest a consistent portion of their earnings back into the business. That ensures that they always have what they need, and that the company’s always growing.

4. The best construction professionals manage their time well. Wasted time means wasted money and missed opportunities. Learning to balance your personal and professional schedules is a key to success in any field, and especially contracting.

5. They always put client satisfaction first. If your customers are always happy with your work and prices, then you’re going to have an easy time finding more projects. Client satisfaction is usually just a matter of doing the little things, and can pay huge dividends.

6. They know how to bid on projects. The more accurately you can predict the time and money needed to complete the project, the healthier your company’s finances will be – and the happier your customers will be.

7. They are always learning more. The California construction industry is always changing, which means you need to be growing, too. Great contractors keep learning with continuing education programs like the ones we offer at CSLS.

Is it time to add more to your construction contracting business? Visit our website today to see our upcoming courses and seminars.

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