| Tricks of the Trade© |
First edition Friday April 28, 2000 |
It's All About Communication
The communication process in a successful company is very similar to the motor oil in a gasoline-powered engine. If there is no communication the machine stops cold. If communication is haphazard at best the engine will chug along and be in constant disrepair. Nothing is more important for a smooth running operation than good solid communication. Each and every aspect of your business is like its own little engine. The healthy flow of information is critical both to the smaller engine and to the main machine, namely your business!
Insist on a reciprocal communications policy with clients. You should never leave them in the dark and visa versa. Phone calls should be returned as promptly as possible. Periods of silence and miscommunication can get expensive. Both sides are at risk!
When it comes to communicating with the general public the key communication objective is professionalism. Employees & vehicles should look clean and sharp. Job-sites should look safe and organized. The client's property should always be well protected. All of these factors will influence how often you are noticed. Make your professional appearance stand out. All signage should be as large as possible, clean and simple. Your companies name & phone number, period. If you are lucky enough to have an unforgettable phone number that should be the biggest message on all signs. Plant the valuable seeds of professionalism and easy contact with each and every glance you get. These communications will fuel the growth of your company.
Employee and Vendor communications are critical pieces of the puzzle. These people must communicate well with the powers that be. If communication problems arise with any regularity you must cut the offenders loose. The longer you keep them around the more money they will cost you. Good employee and vendor communications will be reflected in higher profits. Share the wealth to keep these lines of communication strong!
Let's face it, when it comes to creating a successful and prosperous paint contracting business the mastering of the trade is the first step. After that it's all about communication.
Warren Bachman
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