Finding Reliable Crew Members.
The hardest part of growing your business isn’t finding work—it’s finding reliable people to do it. Experienced roofers are in high demand, and good workers have plenty of options. That means hiring the right crew members takes more intention than ever. Fortunately, you don’t need a massive budget or flashy perks to attract solid people. You need clarity, consistency, and a reputation worth joining. Here are some top tips to help you find, and keep, the talent you need:
- Stop Hiring “Anyone With a Pulse.” When work is busy, it’s tempting to hire whoever is available. Unfortunately, that often leads to poor workmanship, safety issues, and constant turnover. Instead, slow the process down just enough to be selective. Reliability matters more than years of experience. You can teach skills, but you can’t teach work ethic, honesty, or accountability. A dependable worker who shows up every day will outperform a talented but unreliable one every time.
- Be Clear About What the Job Really Is. Many roofing hires fail because expectations were never clearly set. Be upfront about work hours and seasonal demands, physical requirements, safety standards, pay structure and growth opportunities. When candidates know exactly what they’re signing up for, the ones who stay are far more likely to be a good fit.
- Pay Fairly and Consistently. You don’t have to be the highest-paying roofer in town, but you do need to be fair and reliable. Late or inconsistent pay is one of the fastest ways to lose good workers. If possible, structure pay in a way that rewards reliability and quality, such as bonuses for attendance, safety, or productivity. Even small incentives can make your company stand out in a crowded market.
- Hire Through Your Network First. The strongest hires often come through your network. Current or former employees, suppliers and material yards, and other trades you trust are your best bet. Let people know you’re looking. A referral from someone who understands the work often leads to better long-term hires than a cold application.
- Make Your Job Site a Place People Want to Work. Word travels fast in roofing. If your job sites are disorganized, unsafe, or chaotic, good workers will avoid them. Reliable crew members want clear leadership, organized materials, respectful communication and consistent expectations Creating a professional environment doesn’t cost much, but it pays off in retention and performance.
- Invest in Training and Advancement. In a tight labor market, developing talent is often more effective than trying to steal it from competitors. Show new hires there’s a future beyond “just another job.” Provide training, promote from within, and recognize effort. When workers see a path to becoming a crew leader or foreman, they’re more likely to stick around and take pride in their work.
- Treat Your Crew Like Partners, Not Just Labor. People stay where they feel valued. Simple things like listening to feedback, acknowledging hard work, and respecting their time will go a long way. You don’t need to be everyone’s friend, but you do need to be fair, honest, and consistent. Strong culture beats higher pay more often than you might expect.
Remember, in roofing, your reputation isn’t just what customers say, it’s what your crew says when you’re not around. Take it from someone who understands just how important a great reputation is.
To learn more about Marco, visit marcoindustries.com or contact us directly by emailing us here or calling 1-800-800-8590.