Tree Dude, Part 2

I had no idea that Part 1 would trigger such response. In fact, there wasn't going to be a Part 2 until my inbox filled with responses, questions, comments from curious readers.

Let me start with this, and if any reporters take this out of context, may sandspurs invade your undergarments. I do not hold any hostility nor consider the arborist trade much different than much of the service world.  (And the respondents in that trade were positively, the exception to any characterization, as evidenced by reading SMI!)

My experiences are the "other side of the trucks" to help all trades see through another's eyes. The difference here: I'm on your side too.

I had a pretty humorous (and startlingly similar) story from reader Tom Fore of Roanoke, VA who shared an exact quote from his Tree Dude after excessive tardiness. See 'Theater of the Absurd' in this issue. You can insert "carpet cleaner", "sheetrocker", "roofer" and virtually any trade you want... that phrase is being openly acted out for frustrated homeowners across America. Honesty points go to Johnny who actually said it.

Interestingly, one of the most thoughtful responses came from one Patrick George of Heartwood Tree Service in NC. After reading his email, I wish he'd make a 450 mile house call. Patrick is definitely NOT 'Tree Dude' but a certified arborist, yet admitted...

"Tree dude fits about 85% of the guys in my industry." That is important for any tradesperson to know because a reasonably-held standard rockets you past nearly 90% of the crowd. Good observation, yet Patrick had a question that was echoed by several others:

"Why did you pick this guy?"

Consultants are independent. We travel light and don't often share "insider" information. First, those lessons cost us to learn. Second, if you give it away, where's the value? Third, the info can produce huge rewards for clients, far beyond the fees. And that's the point. But...

On this month's coaching call, Adams shared with you Hot Holiday Marketing Techniques:

• The 10 second adjustment that boosts credibility and holiday image
• Win instant goodwill and popularity just by pulling into the driveway
• What promotions are hot - and which ones are not - during the holiday season

You ended up with TWENTY-TWO strategies delivered in about an hour, from our phone to yours, because you're a member of THE hottest Marketing Coaching club for contractors.

In the editorial of the last issue of SMI, I posed this question:

What could the tree dude have done to virtually guarantee this job and likely dozens more in the neighborhood? (Your answer wins prizes, long distance hugs, potential fame... and the ability to apply your logic to YOUR business.)

Well, we definitely have an answer - a very astute one at that. Todd Burton of Burton and Sons, Inc. said:

• Tree Dude could have contacted the AFB. Ahead of time and learned their regulations and come prepared with "free" information.
• He definitely should have showed up on time. Or widen the target  " I'll be by one day this week and call to make sure your available".
• If he can't show up in a nice work truck, a small nice-looking car (the estimating vehicle) with magnetic signs would send a better message.
• Shave, wash, pop in a breath mint.
• Offer to take on the AFB for you.
• Perform a tree inspection and bundle this service with the tree.
• Offer to give you the  top 8 feet for this year's Christmas tree (A savings to you of $100.00 over store bought trees).
• Ensure you that you will be eligible for a government sponsored treebate program ( I couldn't resist)

What is it that makes the holidays special?  Sure, there are the lights and festive decorations.  There's the chill in the air that bites your face as you hustle from store to store in a buying frenzy.  And of course there's the real - or at least favorite - highlight of the season: the food.  Mountains of it.  And let's face it, spending time with the family is a nice change, too.

The pages of the calendar are turning and, for some folks, that means the calculators are buzzing. Are you going to make your sales goals for the year? What end-of-year profit boosters can you put into place?... 

Sign of the times...

Holiday Cards from Hudson, Ink. What better way to thank your customers for....being your customers!