Many remodelers merely talk the talk about being dedicated to their employees.

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You can also create a work environment that places a high value on training. Often, the easiest place to start is with production training. You probably already have people on your field crew who are highly skilled in a particular area. Encouraging them to share that expertise might be as simple as pairing them with less skilled workers whenever possible. Of course, you'll have to budget a little more time into the schedule to get the job done so they can take the time to answer questions and still finish on time.

You can also enlist suppliers and manufacturers to help provide training. This might take the form of direct product installation training or sponsorship of educational sessions at a local association meeting or national trade show. At a higher level of investment, you might hire outside trainers and consultants to come into your organization for the purpose of providing specialized training in sales, estimating, design, marketing, or any other area you want to build.

Whether you are proficient in training internally or not is not critical. You can find good trainers, but only if you are committed to making the necessary investment in your team. Once you make that commitment, however, you will see not only better results in individual performance, but also more team spirit and a stronger commitment to you and your company.

If you are going around saying how important your team is, it's time to start walking your talk and invest in them. —Mark Richardson is president of Case Design/Remodeling and Case Handyman Services, Bethesda, Md., and author of “30-Day Remodeling Fitness Program.” (301) 229-4600; mrichardson@casedesign.com.