[Psycho_Runner]

I think a better comparison is when a commercial building owner is looking at 3 contractors to do tenant improvement. The first 2 are commercial contractors that take kickbacks, uses illegals as subcontractors, performs shoddy work, but both talk a good talk. The third contractor is new to commercial construction as he was previous residential contractor. All his previous customers love the guy because he delivers on time and uses quality product and qualified sub contractors. His business acumen is sharp and people trust him.

So tell me who do you prefer, commerciial contractors, who are known to perform shoddy work, or a residential contractor who everyone loves and trusts, and everyone knows, he is qualified to compete in the commercial contracting world?

[markomalley]

So tell me who do you prefer, commerciial contractors, who are known to perform shoddy work, or a residential contractor who everyone loves and trusts, and everyone knows, he is qualified to compete in the commercial contracting world?

1. The kickbacks are part of the past performance, aren't they? For me, that would virtually disqualify them unless I HAD to have the work done and had NO other choice.
2. As for the rookie, just as before: I'd examine his SOW, project plan, drawings, BOM, and resource breakdown structure with a fine toothed comb. Because I'd want to be convinced he could do the work. Commercial work isn't residential work.

I'm not saying anything against Trump, here. But he needs to close the deal...and broad marketing by itself won't do it.