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BY ASHLEY GLASS EDUCATION SPECIALIST MBAKS Educational Highlights from the 2023 International Builders' Show T he International Builders' Show (IBS) is an annual event that brings together professionals from the construction and building industry. This year's conference was held in Las Vegas and offered valuable insights into workforce development, effective marketing, social media strategies, and adjusting budgets for building houses in the face of a fluctuating housing economy. Here are my top three key takeaways from the conference: 1. Workforce Development Contingency Plans One of the main challenges facing the construction industry is the shortage of skilled labor. Speakers highlighted the need for workforce development Speakers emphasized the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive workforce to attract and retain top talent. contingency plans to ensure that the industry has a steady supply of skilled workers. Some of the strategies discussed at the conference included providing training and apprenticeships and developing partnerships with educational institutions. Specifically, speakers emphasized the importance of creating a diverse and inclusive workforce to attract and retain top talent. 2. Effective Marketing and Social Media Strategies Marketing and social media play an essential role in the success of any construction business. IBS provided insights into the latest marketing and social media trends, including the importance of creating a strong brand identity, leveraging video and virtual reality to showcase projects, and using social media to engage with customers and build brand loyalty. Additionally, speakers emphasized the importance of creating a website that is easy to navigate and showcases the business's services and previous projects. 3. Adjusting Budgets for Building in the Face of a Fluctuating Economy The housing economy is constantly changing, and construction businesses need to be prepared to work with clients to adjust their budgets accordingly. Speakers emphasized the importance of developing a flexible budget that can accommodate unexpected expenses and reflect changes in material costs and labor availability. By implementing these strategies, businesses can stay competitive, attract top talent, and navigate the challenges of an ever-changing industry. If you attended IBS and purchased the Expo+Education Pass at registration, you can use your information to access the on-demand library on NAHB's website. For more information on NAHB's IBS Education sessions and courses, contact Kirby Simmering at ksimmering@nahb.org 46 master BUILDER | SPRING 2023 MEMBERSHIP VALUE