--- title: Estimate Rocket Blog | Kathy D --- ## Stories by Kathy --- ### [Contractor Spring Hurdles: Attract, Motivate, Retain Top Team Members](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/contractor-spring-hurdles-attract-motivate-retain-top-team-members) Spring means more work for contractors—learn how to hire, motivate, and retain a strong team to stay ahead during the busy season. Kathy D ### [The Magic Touch: Mastering the Art of Closing Deals with Precision](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/the-magic-touch-mastering-the-art-of-closing-deals-with-precision) Boost sales with the Rule of Seven! Learn how soft touches like CRM, social media & reviews build trust, nurture leads & close more deals effectively. Kathy D ### [Maximize Your Profits](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/maximize-your-profits) Maximize profits with strategies to track metrics, optimize pricing, streamline operations, and boost revenue through upsells and client retention. Kathy D ### [Using Production Rate Based Estimating Is Mission Critical…](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/using-production-rate-based-estimating-is-mission-critical) See how production rate-based estimating boosts accuracy, profitability, and efficiency for contractors, improving job costing and client... Kathy D ### [Let’s Talk …  Customer Retention](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/lets-talk-customer-retention) Learn key strategies to boost customer retention, enhance loyalty, and drive growth through exceptional service and personalized experiences. Kathy D ### [5 Keys To Your Success During The Off Season](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/5-keys-to-your-success-during-the-off-season) Discover 5 key strategies to boost your business in the off-season, from diversifying services to building loyalty and preparing for peak season... Kathy D ### [Hiring a Dream Sales Team for Service Contractors](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/hiring-a-dream-sales-team-for-service-contractors) Build a top sales team for your service contracting business with expert hiring tips, assessments, and strategies for growth and lasting success. Kathy D ### [Boosting Sales With Timely Follow-Ups To Close More Deals](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/boosting-sales-with-timely-follow-ups-to-close-more-deals) Learn how fast follow-ups boost conversions for contractors. Discover ways to improve response time, enhance customer experience, and close more... Kathy D ### [Preparation and Punctuality Wins Customers](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/preparation-and-punctuality-wins-customers) Punctuality and preparation are key to winning clients in contracting. Learn how these habits set you apart and build lasting business relationships. Kathy D ### [Great Opportunities Can often be Found in Unusual Economic Times](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/great-opportunities-can-often-be-found-in-unusual-economic-times) Adapt and innovate in tough times. Focus on essential services, network, leverage grants, offer flexible payments, and invest in training for success. Kathy D ### [Knowing Your Numbers - A Game Changer for Service Contractors](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/knowing-your-numbers-a-game-changer-for-service-contractors) Track key metrics weekly to maintain financial health, drive growth, and stay competitive. Learn expert tips and routines from 20+ years of... Kathy D ### [Attracting & Hiring the Best Team for your Contracting Company](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/attracting-hiring-the-best-team-for-your-contracting-company) Attract top service contractors: define ideal candidates, optimize listings, leverage tech, build brand, develop interviews, and offer great benefits. Kathy D [ 1 ](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/author/kathy-d/page/1) [ 2 ](https://www.estimaterocket.com/whats_new/author/kathy-d/page/2) ### Get notified on whats new at Estimate Rocket. Be the first to know about new Articles, PodCasts, Events and Product news. ---