January  2013  |  4th Edition

Hello 2013!

Its official, the Consumer Service Program has successfully wrapped up 2012 and is charging ahead into 2013.  This is especially true for those of you who took advantage of this opportunity to diversify your business using most of your existing resources.  The program produced notable accomplishments as well as impressive individual results - many of which are highlighted below. 

As we look ahead to 2013, we have our goals set high for new program clients within both insurance and affinity groups. Good luck to all for a healthy, happy and prosperous new year.


As always, we value your feedback and any ideas or topics you would like to see featured in BLUEPRINT. 

Enjoy!

Chip Bifano

 
Tips for Success
by David Lupberger


 
Defining your USP:
Your Unique Selling Proposition

Why did past customers choose to work with you?  Why did they decide to hire you, and what did you do during your selling process that made them a customer?  They worked with you because there was something you did or said during the sale that was unique and therefore separated you from other competitors.  Whether you knew it or not, you may have communicated your “unique selling proposition” (USP).  

Wikipedia defines “the unique selling proposition” as a marketing concept that was first proposed as a theory to explain a pattern of successful advertising campaigns in the early 1940s. It states that such campaigns made unique propositions to the customer, propositions that convinced those customers to switch brands. Today, a number of businesses and corporations currently use USPs as a basis for their marketing campaigns.

What is YOUR USP? 
2012
Milestones

 
2012 Brought Key Milestones and Accomplishments

  • After a successful 6 month pilot, USAA launches the Home Improvement Network (HIN) nationally 
  • At the 2012 National Contractor Connection Conference, the Friday Consumer Service Workshop was extremely well received and attended
  • Specialized Consumer Services 4-part training program was facilitated by David Lupberger of the Remodel Force
  • Launched the Blueprint, your consumer services program monthly update with added value tips and tools
  • Program results continue to improve in all key areas particularly average job size and most importantly job closing ratios which are rising to nearly 30%!
Call for 
Field Photos

 
Showcase
Your Work


Periodically we will showcase a photo series from the consumer services field. Did you face a unique set of challenges, a huge project, a remarkable remodel?

Send us your remodel before and after pictures with your company name and a small explanation of the job.

Then check next month's issue of "BLUEPRINT,"  the Consumer Services Monthly Update, to see if your photos were featured. 


Thanks to those companies who have submitted photos and had their work featured. 

Why not showcase your latest accomplishments! 

Send us your photo series or Before and After Photos today!


Send Pictures to 
photos@contractorconnection.com


 
 
Myth
The consumer estimate should be written like a typical insurance estimate.


Fact
The estimate should be to remodel to the client’s specifications and not for  like, kind and quality as a typical insurance estimate.

A properly written proposal or estimate should accomplish the following:

  • Tell the story of the project and/or clearly describe the scope of work
  • Include photos when appropriate
  • State a projected start and completion date
  • Clearly identify all building material specifications (quality of the materials) 
  • For larger projects, clearly outline progress payment schedule based on completion of       specific phases of construction-including the payment of any special order items 
  • A properly signed or executed work authorization 
 
Consumer Services Leaders
Each month we highlight the companies that are realizing their potential
in the Consumer Services program.

This month includes a new section, titled "Big Money." Make sure to see the top 5 leaders in this important category that reflect the 2012 Total Job DOLLARS Sold. 
 
Big Money
(2012)
Top 5 Most DOLLARS Sold 

Jenkins Restoration - Sterling (VA)
$562,451

Jim Black Construction (CO) 
$425,111

Above All Consultants (CO)
$361,116

Shamrock Restoration (VA)
$358,318

Atlantic Restoration (NJ)
$331,325

Heavy Hitters
(2012)
Most JOBS Sold

Shamrock Restoration (VA) 
50

T & T Contracting (VA) 
42

Quality Roofing (TX) 
35

Jim Black Construction (CO) 
CRM Construction (MD) 
Campanello Construction Services (TX) 
Above All Consultants (CO)
Apex Waterproofing (VA)    
27

Big Wins
(December 2012)
Top 5 Largest Single Job Sold 

Jenkins Restorations (VA)
$86,302 

Orange Restoration (IN) 
$32,981

PDR of Greater Portland Suburbs (OR)
$32,128 

Orange Restoration (IN)
$31,998 

Jim Black Construction (CO)
$29,812


 


The Closers
(2012)
Top Job Close Ratio (Min. 5 Jobs Sold)

Firedex of Butler (PA)
A to Z Leak Detection (CA) 

100%

PDR North Georgia (GA) 
75%

PDR Tulsa (OK) 
D.Y. Calison, Inc. (CA) 
72%

Griffin Fire & Water Damage (TX) 
Repairs Unlimited Inc. (KS)
Wilson Roofing Company (TX)  
Rite Way Restoration (OH)    
67%