Kelly Ohlmus / Thursday, June 15, 2023

Trade Profile: Introducing Michael O'Gorman of Mike's Outdoor Rooms

Discover Mike's Outdoor Rooms, a trusted bricklaying business with over 18 years of experience. Specialising in building houses and garden rooms, Mike ensures customer satisfaction and delivers quality projects.

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Michael O'Gorman, the owner of Mike's Outdoor Rooms, a renowned bricklaying business.

With 18 years of experience working for himself, Michael shared insights into his trade, favourite projects, and tips for success. Here's what he had to say:

OLT: What led you to start Mike's Outdoor Rooms, Michael?

Michael: Well, I've always had a passion for bricklaying and construction. After qualifying as a bricklayer in 2003, I decided to venture out on my own and start Mike's Outdoor Rooms. I wanted to have control over my work and deliver projects that I could be proud of.

OLT: What types of projects do you typically handle?

Michael: At Mike's Outdoor Rooms, we specialise in building houses, focusing mainly on blockwork and brickwork for large projects like spacious homes and extensive sites.

Additionally, I take on my own contract work for garden rooms, typically not exceeding 25 square meters. In these projects, I handle everything from start to finish, including tiling, slabbing, and second-fix carpentry.

Our expertise also extends to gazebos, BBQ areas, and outdoor kitchens. Moreover, I've completed a course on fiberglassing, which enables me to provide a five-year guarantee to my customers.

OLT: What are your favourite projects and why?

Michael: My favourite projects are definitely the garden rooms. I enjoy interacting with clients and delivering a final product that brings value to them.

It's incredibly satisfying to be in control of the entire process, from conception to completion. Being able to see a project through from start to finish and witness the customer's satisfaction is truly rewarding.

OLT: How do you ensure customer satisfaction in your work?

Michael: To ensure customer satisfaction, I approach each job by thoroughly discussing every detail with the client. I strive to incorporate any additional requests they may have at the best possible price.

Honesty and staying true to my word are crucial aspects of my approach. I make it a priority to deliver on time at each stage of the build, allowing for smooth progress and timely payment.

OLT: Can you share a memorable project you've worked on?

Michael: Last year, I worked on a garden room project where the client had some specific requirements that didn't initially fit within her budget. However, we managed to find creative solutions and alternatives that allowed us to deliver what she wanted without exceeding her budget. It was a rewarding experience to find ways to meet the client's needs while staying within the agreed-upon financial constraints.

OLT: What is the most important lesson you've learned in your career so far?

Michael: The most important lesson I've learned is to always be honest and upfront with customers. Transparency and efficiency go a long way in building trust and ensuring a successful project. Additionally, delivering each stage of the build on time is crucial for maintaining cash flow and overall project progress.

OLT: How did you navigate through the recession and keep your business afloat?

Michael: During the recession, I made some adjustments to ensure my business's survival. I reduced the number of workers and focused on managing the workload myself.

By taking on smaller projects and tightening my pricing, I was able to maintain a steady flow of work and stay afloat during challenging economic times.

OLT: What advice would you give to someone starting out in the trade?

Michael: For someone starting out in the trade, I would advise them to start small and take on projects that they feel comfortable handling.

Avoid getting into excessive financial debt and focus on enjoying what you do. It's important to find a balance between earning a living and finding fulfilment in your work.

OLT: How has Onlinetradesmen helped your business?

Michael: Onlinetradesmen has been instrumental in providing security and support for my business. As a sole trader, it can often feel like you're on your own in the building trade.

Having a platform like Onlinetradesmen has been a valuable resource, connecting me with potential clients and helping me sustain my business. I truly appreciate anyone who contributes to my ability to continue doing what I love.

OLT: Is there anything else you would like us to know about you?

Michael: I pride myself on being honest, hardworking, and always ready to take on new challenges. I enjoy keeping busy and delivering high-quality work to my clients. Building strong relationships with customers is essential to me, and I'm grateful for the opportunities to create beautiful outdoor spaces that bring joy to people's lives.

We hope you've enjoyed this interview with Michael O'Gorman from Mike's Outdoor Rooms. If you need a skilled bricklayer or contractor for your construction project, be sure to check out Mike's Outdoor Rooms on Onlinetradesmen or post a job to find a professional who will deliver exceptional results.

And if you're a tradesperson looking to grow your business, don't hesitate to reach out to the Onlinetradesmen team. They can provide guidance and support to help you achieve success in the industry, just like Michael.