In thinking about that lesson and the long list of things I wanted to accomplish this year, I came up with the top three things I need to focus on at my business. I have also developed them into themes, so I can get the team to rally around my priorities. y technicians can be a huge headache for contractors. Fortunately, when it comes to side jobs for family and friends, the savvy contractor has the ability to turn the issue on its head.
Even though the trades seem to be plagued with multiple issues, companies can take steps to elevate employees through leadership training. With so many entry-level employees, companies have to rely on incorporating technology to help reach the masses, creating consistency in delivering training material.
Some are calling for the Uber dynamic pricing model to be used in the HVACR contracting world, especially during peak times like summer, when demand for technicians often outstrips supply.
If President Donald Trump and Congress deliver on the promise of faster growth for the economy, it may well be reflected in a tightening labor market. That means that finding and hiring those star employees every company seeks will become even more difficult.
A world-class team translates into superior customer service and high-quality work, which enables you to create satisfied customers. Satisfied customers will not only stay with you for the long term, but will also send you referrals.
I can only assume that the growing labor shortage is forcing contractors to increase wait times for new customers. Unfortunately, many prospective customers hear they can’t get an appointment immediately and will hang up the phone.
So what do you do, if after all of your best avoidance techniques fail, you find yourself in the middle of a difficult conversation where folks are just not seeing eye- to-eye?
While the traditional avenue will continue to be the main path into HVAC, the realities of the technician shortage and the lack of qualified talent yearning to enter the industry have put a spotlight on other training paths, including fast-track training.
Admittedly, I do not pay near as much attention to local politics as I do to the national scene. Sure, I know some of the issues that are being discussed at the state level, but I could not tell you my representative in city government. I find out about decisions made locally after the fact, never before. This is not a luxury an HVAC business owner has when deciding how to follow politics.
You may have noticed that the contractors featured in The NEWS as “The Best Contractors to Work For” seldom mention the availability of qualified people as a problem. The reason is, they treat their people right. That means they are paid fair wages, given appropriate benefits, and treated with gratitude.