How to Get New Work Fast for Your Building Company

Feeling the pressure? Every builder hits a point where they need new work quickly.

Maybe a few contracts fell through or cashflow’s looking tight. Whatever the reason, finding new work fast is crucial. But there’s one thing you need to know…

Quick fixes alone won’t get you long-term success.

Yes, there are strategies that will help you get jobs in the short term, but if you rely only on these, you’ll end up in a cycle of feast and famine. What you need is a combination of short-term wins and a long-term marketing strategy to keep the pipeline full.

In this article, I’ll show you three proven tactics for getting new work fast, along with the essential caveat: don’t rely on these quick fixes forever.

1. The 10x10x10 Strategy

This is a tried-and-tested method for builders who specialise in knockdown rebuilds or renovations. It’s simple and highly effective, but it takes a bit of legwork.

Here’s how it works:

When you’re working on a project, knock on 10 doors to the left, 10 doors to the right, and 10 doors across the street. Introduce yourself as the builder working nearby and offer your card. But, and this is critical, you’re not there to make a hard sell. Instead, you’re managing expectations and starting a conversation.

Tell them something like:

"Hey, we’ll be working on Mr. Jones’ house at number 29. I want to make sure that if you have any issues with noise or blocked driveways, you can contact me directly."

Why does this work?

It breaks the ice. You’re being a considerate neighbor, not a pushy salesperson. And chances are, when they think about their next renovation or knockdown rebuild, you’ll be the first builder that comes to mind.

2. The Partner Strategy

Referrals are gold. Why? Because they cut down on the time it takes to build trust with new clients. When someone recommends you, half the battle is already won. They’ve heard good things, and they’re already inclined to trust you.

One way to get more referrals is by partnering with architects or building designers. But here’s the catch—you become a commodity. They’re not choosing you for your unique skill or service; they’re choosing based on price. You don’t want to be the cheapest option.

Instead, cultivate partnerships with professionals who align with your quality and pricing standards. And while this is a great short-term fix for getting new work fast, remember: relying on architect referrals alone can drive you into a race to the bottom.

3. Targeted Prospecting

Your most valuable asset? Your existing database. If you’re not regularly mining it for opportunities, you’re leaving money on the table.

Have a CRM? Great. Don’t have one? Get one—yesterday.

Go back through your list of previous clients, leads, and enquiries. Start re-engaging them. But here’s the trick—don’t just blast out an email saying, “Hey, need a builder?” Lead with value using effective home builder marketing techniques like content marketing. 

Send helpful advice, articles, or case studies that solve a problem for them. Keep it conversational. Then, once you’ve added value, make a small ask—something like, “If you’re thinking about building or renovating soon, we’d love to have a quick chat.”

Don’t forget to pick up the phone, too. People ignore emails, but they’re far less likely to ignore a direct call—especially if you’ve been adding value consistently.

The Reality of Quick Wins

These strategies work. But here’s the truth—you can’t rely on quick fixes forever.

If you want to secure high-margin contracts and book out projects months or even years in advance, you need to implement a long-term marketing and sales strategy. Builders who invest consistently—those who put 3% of their revenue back into marketing—are the ones who are still thriving, even when the market tightens.

So, what’s next?

You’ve got the quick fixes in your toolkit now. But don’t stop there. Use these methods to get some fast wins, then start focusing on building out a sustainable sales process that delivers consistent results.

If you’re serious about securing more high-margin contracts and scaling your building company, download our free Sales Blueprint for Builders.

Just click here to download it now.