Subcontracting image
Subcontracting image
(OP)
I am subcontracting some of my work and I have some questions related to the image perceived by my clients. Is it expected that the logo and the company's name of my subcontractors come with the projects, so my clients can see it? Can I make an agreement with my subcontractors so they could not work directly with my clients for a specific time?





RE: Subcontracting image
As far as limiting the ability of your subcontractor to work directly for the client, I wouldn't think that would be acceptable. If the subcontractor agrees to it, it would probably be fine. I think that's a little much to ask from a subcontractor though.
Typically, I would just not give the subcontractor the name of the client. This may be easier in machine design (and even then not always possible), whereas in your field I imagine that the subcontractor may need to be in direct contact with the client or need to visit the job site.
-- MechEng2005
RE: Subcontracting image
I never hire a sub without the client's explicit approval. I always discuss the project and the client with the sub prior to committing. I've never had a problem. Several times, we've reached milestones in projects where I was the one that wasn't adding enough value and I would bow out in favor of the sub--I've never been hurt by that, my clients see it at caring about their costs and tend to increase my work with them.
If everyone in a project has the same integrity, then using subs can really leverage your time. If anyone on the project is lacking in integrity then they should be killed and buried under the pilings (or at least black balled). I figure if the client and/or the sub are slime I'm better off being out of it no matter what they're paying.
David
RE: Subcontracting image
If you have a strong relationship with your subs, and they are ethical, they will tell you if they are approached by the client.
I recently took the point on a project when my client got too busy and needed me to get it done. The client and I have talked about future projects but my client and I we will see how things work out on this one before we cross the bridge about whose client it is anyways.
Don Phillips
http://worthingtonengineering.com
RE: Subcontracting image
The exception is if the subcontractor is a specialist consultant such as PT then there is generally no risk of losing your client.
I would still get a non compete agreement off your sub though.
RE: Subcontracting image