In this Own the Build Question Time episode, Paul is joined by Chris Barber, COO and Co-Founder of C-Link, to answer listener questions on the realities of working commercially in construction — including the mistakes, difficult meetings and relationships that shape you as a QS.

This episode gets particularly candid, with Paul and Chris looking back on their own careers and sharing some of the lessons they learned the hard way.

The conversation explores:

• the toughest meetings they experienced as young QSs and why preparation matters;
• their biggest commercial mistakes and what they changed as a result;
• when new technology and ERP systems can actually make commercial teams less efficient rather than more efficient;
• why understanding the workflow before implementing technology is critical;
• the importance of keeping your emotions — and your poker face — under control during negotiations; and
• what separates the best commercial counterparts from the people you never want to work with again.

Paul and Chris also discuss why fairness and pragmatism in variation management can completely change the dynamic between main contractors, subcontractors and consultants.

The underlying message is simple:

some of the most valuable lessons in commercial management come from getting things wrong, learning quickly and making sure you don't make the same mistake twice.

A candid and practical Question Time episode for QSs and commercial professionals at every stage of their careers.

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📥 Plus: Grab Paul’s free new eBook Mastering Construction Procurement — link below:

Mastering Construction Procurement Strategies for Supply Chain Integration, Tendering, and Commercial Success

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Paul is on Linkedin here and would love to talk. You can also connect with Paul at paul@c-link.com or through, C-Link.

C-Link is software built by Quantity Surveyors for Quantity Surveyors. We save 600 hours of Quantity Surveying time per project in automation. We can make your QS’ so much more efficient.

Watch the Video to learn more; you can book a demo by clicking here.