The root of conscientiousness is "conscious", which means awareness. A conscientious contractor is aware of what he says and does. He is aware that his words and actions have consequences, in regard to both the customer’s image of his company and in the quality of the service he provides.

If one’s goal is business success, then conscientiousness demands an awareness of those factors which will determine success. Such an awareness includes the projection of a professional image, but goes much further.

For example, the contractor should continually monitor the quality of the work being performed. He should identify and correct problems before they come to the customer’s attention, or if necessary, discuss the problem with the customer. Doing so develops trust, but also reduces or eliminates time consuming and costly call-backs.

Conscientiousness involves thinking ahead and planning appropriately. It means protecting the customer’s property, arranging for access when required, anticipating problems, and reducing hassles. Conscientiousness means an awareness of what one is doing and why.

In the context of a painting company, the contractor’s purpose is to improve and/ or protect the value of the property. Destroying plants, spilling paint, or breaking windows are counter-productive to this purpose, and with few exceptions, can be prevented. When accidents do occur, the customer should be immediately made aware, and the appropriate corrective actions taken.