Charging for Estimates

by Nick Gromicko If you’re getting too many requests for estimates that aren’t converting into sales, it might be that your estimates (in and of themselves) have value to the prospects, or that your prospects aren’t really serious about having the work performed.  These issues can be resolved by charging for estimates. Other contractors’ clients…

Meeting a Prospect for the First Time

by Nick Gromicko Should a contractor be judged by what s/he wears to give an estimate? We all like to think that people judge us carefully and objectively on our merits.  But the reality is that strangers try to stereotype us quickly.  So, proper attire is an important part of a contractor’s success.  A contractor’s…

Converting Calls into Sales Appointments

by Nick Gromicko What happens when your phone rings?  How is your phone answered?  It needs to be answered quickly and properly, every time.  “Catch” the call.  You should have instant access to your calendar every time your phone rings so that you can book an appointment. Your prospect will judge your business based on…

Press Releases for Contractors

by Nick Gromicko Contractors should use the format of the standard press release to make announcements on their websites and contractor blogs.  This lends an official quality to any announcements that deserve particular attention or that are time-sensitive.  This will help the website visitor distinguish between sales-type information and general news announcements about the contractor’s business.…

eNewsletters That Promote Contractors

by Nick Gromicko Contractors who want to connect with prospective clients, as well as stay in the forefront of the minds of former clients and other home professionals, should consider creating an e-newsletter to email to subscribers every month. The advantages of doing this are many.  Newsletters are a great way to improve client retention.  …

Modern Marketing for Contractors

Online Promotional Videos for Contractors by Nick Gromicko Contractors who are marketing-savvy should maintain their websites by occasionally adding consumer-targeted videos.  As technology becomes cheaper and more dummy-proof, it’s easy for a contractor to shoot a short video at a jobsite and upload it to his website.  Such a video should give consumers some basic…

Profitable Home & Garden Shows and Trade Expos

by Nick Gromicko Contractors who find themselves between projects should consider investing some time in manning a table at a trade show.  The opportunities to do so are frequent—they include luxury home tours, garden shows, building and home supply events, and real estate functions.  Prospective homeowners who are considering a new build generally take the…

Common Print Ad Mistakes Every Contractor Makes

by Nick Gromicko An effective ad is actually not designed to tell the world about your greatness.  An ad isn’t about you; it’s about your prospective customers.  Your ad should deliver a compelling message that causes the reader to call you.  Don’t un-sell your services with the wrong kind of ad. The winner is the…

Purchasing or Leasing the Right Truck

by Nick Gromicko Reliable, respectable transportation is essential for the contractor.  Purchasing the right work vehicle to carry equipment, as well as doubling as a mobile office, is becoming somewhat easier, ironically, as the American car industry is suffering through tough economic times.  Securing the most favorable commercial truck loan will get the contractor on…