Less than half of construction firms are still in business after four years. Make sure your company thrives with essential - and very readable - guidance from a pro with 25 years' success. Find out what it takes to build all aspects of a business that's profitable, enjoyable, and enduring. Here are just a few of the things you'll learn from this book:* The duties of the owner of a successful construction business* Essential terms and conditions to include and exclude in contracts* Commandments to follow to ensure you're paid what you're owed, including step-by-step change-order procedures to avoid disputes and non-payment* Strict dos and don'ts of mechanics' liens - including when an owner goes bankrupt* What must be done administratively before breaking ground on every project* How to select, hire, and keep "golden" employees* Effective marketing even the smallest contractor can afford* How to identify the accountants, lawyers, and insurance agents that are right for you* The what, when, where, and why of licensing and registration* The advantages of specializing, including the opportunities in chain store construction Whether you're a contractor, a key employee, a subcontractor, a student, or a facility executive, you'll find many ideas you can immediately add to your management and leadership toolbox. Adopting even a single one of them will pay dividends now and throughout your career.