Disaster plans are one of those things we all know we need, but never get around to creating. That tends to bite our business right in the rear when trouble comes. The weather events of the last few months have brought this topic to the top of everyone’s minds, and I want you to think about acting while the memories are still fresh.
The high failure rate or inability to grow beyond a few trucks is due primarily to an entrepreneur’s lack of business training. The technical skills acquired, which are, of course, an asset, soon become a liability in terms of not having mastered business skills necessary for success and profitability.
My first marketing guru was Leo Baron. He taught me the ins and outs of marketing while I was still in my 20s. I was lucky to have access to such a proven marketing genius at such a young age. He had “street cred” from working with some of the top companies in the greater New York area. It was only because he and my dad had been boyhood friends that he decided to do my father a favor and mentor me.
Without people, distributors basically become an empty warehouse, a collection of well-used computers and an assortment of worn out office furniture. Speaking with an assortment of folks looking to purchase distribution businesses — from inside and outside the industry — the conversation typically revolves around three major points — profitability, solid customer relationships, and stability of people.
When a local nonprofit organization focused on training service dogs noticed one of its facilities was not staying cool enough, the phone rang and the problem was solved when an HVAC company was looking to help.
With the continued and growing industry discussions on the pros and cons of HVAC equipment available online and through retail sales, Navien has taken a strong position in support of wholesale distribution only to professionals and against consumer-purchased equipment.
With the continued and growing industry discussions on the pros and cons of HVAC equipment available online and through retail sales, Navien has taken a strong position in support of wholesale distribution only to professionals and against consumer-purchased equipment.
ECR Intl. recently held its ECR Expo at the Twin River Casino in Lincoln, Rhode Island. The 2017 ECR Expo welcomed wholesalers, contractors, and industry partners to its indoor trade show and outdoor live-fire demonstrations. This was the first event of its kind for ECR Intl.
You may have read my colleague Gresham Ard’s blog post, “Training: Where to Start?” If you haven’t, start there, like the title says! Once you’re familiar with the foundations of great training, here are three more things to do that will help boost the effectiveness of your training sessions.
Listening skills may not be the first thing that comes to mind at a plumbing and heating supply house. During one of my treks, I made the time to acquaint myself with the front counter people. I usually find an abundance of insight, smiles, and good service lessons to learn from those who work the counter. Similar to any organization, when you really want to know what is happening, ask the folks on the front line. Doing this will almost always reveal the unvarnished truth.