The Forbidden Words
Ever noticed how some builders seem to have an answer for everything?
After 10 years in construction, I've learned that some of the most powerful words you can say to a client are deemed forbidden by the old school guys...
“I don’t know, but I’ll find out.”
The Old School Mentality
We all know these guys. They feel a crushing responsibility to be the all-knowing oracle of construction.
Every question needs an answer, even if they're not sure.
It's exhausting for them and dangerous for their clients.
When you:
- Pretend you have an answer for everything
- Never admit uncertainty
- Make stuff up on the spot
You end up:
- Making promises you can't keep
- Risking expensive mistakes
- Feeling like a fraud
- Losing client trust when they discover the truth.
And worst of all? You stop learning.
The Building Industry Never Stops
Construction is a constantly evolving beast. New materials emerge. Methods improve. Standards change.
Even the most experienced builder can't know everything about:
- The latest Australian standards
- New construction methods
- Council requirements and regulations
- Every trade's specialty work.
So instead of pretending, try this:
“I don’t know, but I want to give you the right answer, so let me check with [my certifier / my team / HIA] and get back to you tomorrow."
Your Clients Will Respect You
Because it shows you’re honest, open to learning, and that you consult with experts to get the best possible results.
It’s how you build real trust with your clients. But that’s not all...
Every time you say "I don't know," you not only release the pressure of having to know everything, you open the door to learning something new.
It's how you stay current. It's how you grow. It's how you become better than the builders who are still stuck in the old school ways.
Thanks for reading!
Cheers,
Josh