In next month’s CFJ, we’ve had some fun asking the AI chatbot, ChatGPT, to give us guidance for flooring contractors in the UK.

Here are some questions about flooring we asked AI to answer. Depending on where you stand on the issue, the answers will surprise you or make you yawn.

QUESTION: Why aren’t young people keen to become floorlayers?

ANSWER: There could be several reasons why young people may not be keen to become floorlayers:

Perception of the profession: Floorlaying may be viewed by some as a physically demanding job that requires a lot of hard work and long hours. This perception may discourage some young people from considering it as a career option.

Lack of awareness: Many young people may not be aware of the opportunities that exist in the field of floorlaying. They may not have exposure to the profession or understand the potential for career growth and advancement.

Educational pathways: There may be limited educational pathways available for young people to pursue a career in floorlaying. Without clear educational pathways, it may be difficult for young people to understand how to enter the profession and what skills they need to develop.

Pay and benefits: The pay and benefits for floorlayers may not be perceived as competitive compared to other professions. This may make it less attractive for young people who are looking for stable and well-paying jobs.

To encourage more young people to consider floorlaying as a profession, it’s important to raise awareness about the opportunities and benefits of the profession. This could include promoting apprenticeship programs, offering training and educational opportunities, and highlighting the potential for career growth and advancement. It’s also important to emphasize the value of skilled labour and the important role that floorlayers play in creating safe, comfortable, and functional spaces.

QUESTION: Once established, how can a flooring contractor remain successful?

ANSWER: Once established, it’s important for a flooring contractor to continue building on their success to remain competitive and profitable. Here are some strategies that can help a flooring contractor remain successful:

Build strong relationships with customers: Building strong relationships with customers is essential for maintaining a successful business. This includes providing excellent customer service, addressing customer concerns and feedback, and offering follow-up services.

Focus on quality workmanship: Quality workmanship is essential for a flooring contractor to maintain their reputation and attract new business. This includes using high-quality materials, adhering to industry standards and regulations, and ensuring that work is completed to the highest standards.

Stay up-to-date with industry trends and technology: The flooring industry is constantly evolving, with new materials and technologies emerging on a regular basis. Staying up-to-date with industry trends and technology can help a contractor remain competitive and provide the best service possible to customers.

Expand services and offerings: Expanding services and offerings can help a contractor remain competitive and attract a wider range of customers. This could include offering different types of flooring materials or expanding into related services such as furniture moving or cleaning.

Develop a strong team: Developing a strong team of employees who are skilled, reliable, and committed to the company’s success is essential for a flooring contractor to remain successful. This includes investing in training and development, creating a positive work environment, and offering competitive compensation and benefits.

Use marketing and advertising effectively: Effective marketing and advertising can help a contractor reach new customers and build brand recognition. This could include using social media platforms, creating a website, and participating in industry events and trade shows.

By implementing these strategies, a flooring contractor can remain successful in the industry and continue to grow their business over time.

FOR THE FULL ARTICLE, READ CFJ JULY