Paul Sullivan, CGR
The Sullivan Co.
Newton Highlands, Mass.
Q: Why did you decide to pursue your CGR designation?
A: The CGR designation shows that I take my profession seriously. My clients recognize that I have put the effort into certification to improve the services that I can offer them.
Q: How long have you been a CGR?
A: I earned my CGR designation in 1996. Tony Thompson and Bill Asdal presented it to me during the Fall Boards in Orlando, Florida.
Q: What courses and information from the CGR program have you been able to apply immediately in your business?
A: One of the most beneficial courses I took was Estimating. Whenever there's one important thing you can take away from a course, I consider it a success. The instructor focused on three techniques: square footage, component and stick. I use these three methods as a check and balance on each preliminary estimate that I do. My firm does not competitively bid projects, so this is helpful information to my clients in determining the validity of my numbers.
Q: How has being a CGR helped you in marketing to potential clients?
A: I pursued the CGR designation generally as part of my marketing effort. Not only was it beneficial in that respect, but I gained some valuable knowledge at the same time. CGR courses are a great value when you consider that.