Advice for Small Operations
What advice would you give to a one-poler or small operation?
Money in Hand
You’ve done the job; the customer is delighted — they say, “Send me the bill.” You do. You wait for payment… you send a second reminder — and still await payment. Then a third notice is mailed…and a fourth.Phone calls to the customer are not returned. Collection letters are sent certified, return receipt. Each comes…
Thinking Differently, Part 4
Not following the payment structure I described in part three of this series can cause you big problems. Customers who deviate from this will cost you a lot of money, not only in not getting paid but also in attorneys’ fees. In your sales contract, add a binding arbitration clause. People argue this with me,…
Three Deadly Stages of Growth
Two major factors cause companies to go out of business: The first is improper labor pricing. Let’s assume you know your costs of doing business and what to do as costs change. Proper labor pricing is critical, and you must change your labor rate as costs change. Understanding what to charge per hour is only…
When the Ice Thaws
Pool builders and service professionals on the western and southern coasts of the country have it good: because of moderate year-round temperatures, every season is busy season. Come November in the Midwest or Northeast, however, business starts to wane and, by the following march, pool pros are anxious for grass to start poking through the…