In this episode of Your Business Your Next Level, I sit down with Chris Zimmerman, founder of At Your Service Roofing and co-founder of Master Your Craft, a consulting firm specializing in training insurance restoration professionals. Chris shares his inspiring journey from growing up in the trades to becoming a nationally recognized speaker and trainer in the roofing industry. We discuss the importance of company culture, core values, and aligning your team with a shared mission to drive long-term success. Chris opens up about his approach to leadership, the role of mindset in overcoming challenges, and how he helps business owners shift from a "poor man’s mentality" to one that fosters growth and resilience. This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs in the trades and beyond, offering actionable advice on scaling with intention and clarity.

Key Takeaways:

Culture is King: Chris emphasizes that a company’s culture is its foundation, with core values and a clear mission serving as the guiding principles for decision-making and team alignment.

Shift from Self-Employment to Leadership: Transitioning from “wearing all the hats” to delegating effectively is critical for building a sustainable and scalable business.

The Power of Mindset: Success starts with a long-term mindset, embracing change, and focusing on mission-driven decisions rather than short-term gains.

Consultants and Coaches are Essential: Chris advocates for hiring external support to uncover blind spots and accelerate growth, turning potential roadblocks into opportunities.

Break Free of Fear: Fear of failure or judgment often holds business owners back. Chris discusses the importance of making decisions based on values and long-term goals, rather than fear or anxiety.

Timeline Summary:

[00:00] - Introduction to Chris Zimmerman and his journey into roofing and consulting.

[02:00] - The importance of culture and aligning teams with a shared mission.

[05:00] - Lessons learned from transitioning from self-employment to leadership.

[08:00] - Overcoming the “poor man’s mentality” and embracing a growth mindset.

[12:00] - Why hiring consultants and coaches accelerates success.

[15:00] - Breaking free from fear-based decision-making and focusing on values.

[20:00] - Final thoughts on scaling, leadership, and creating clarity in business.

Links & Resources:

https://aysroofing.com/