The simplest formula for success in roofing

By Jenny Yu 

Dave Harrison, industry veteran and consultant, shares insights on how to build a long, purposeful career in the industry. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with industry veteran Dave Harrison to reflect on a career defined by innovation, relationships and purpose-driven growth in the roofing and building products sector.  

Dave, who previously served as chief marketing officer for major manufacturers before launching his own consulting firm, Dave Harrison Consulting, shared how his approach has always centered on solving the industry’s core challenges. Earlier in his career, Dave strove to identify the fundamental issue roofing businesses were facing. 

“Customers were wondering: how do I know which roofing contractors I can trust?” Dave said. Based on decades of experience, he knew that education was the answer. “For the people who don't realize there's risk, educate them on risk. The people who do understand risk, help them understand how you can reduce it. It's that simple.”  

This insight led to a strategy focused on reducing risk and building trust, both for contractors and their customers. This strategy had five focus items: “One: generate leads at a lower cost. Two: educate the customer on what's valuable and why system selling is important. Three: develop an ‘I'm different than the rest’ mindset. Four: build capability. Five: save money,” Dave shared. 

Throughout the conversation, Dave emphasized that success in the industry goes beyond strategic and technical expertise. Instead, it involves a passion for the work itself and an appreciation for the day-to-day.  

“It's all about the journey,” Dave stated. “If you like what you do, that's the simplest formula of all. If you love what you do and your life has purpose, you'll always make enough. It's all the journey; it’s all the purpose; it's all the fun. I wouldn't trade it for the world.” 

For those looking to start their own businesses, Dave offered some advice: “Being purpose-driven is always a way to differentiate. Just try to make the world a little better each day because you were there, and life's going to be good.” 

Read the first article in this series or Listen to the whole podcast to hear more insights on how to build a successful career in the roofing industry.