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By Jenny Benbrook Home service contractors put serious money into field service management (FSM) software and other digital tools, expecting them to streamline operations, boost profits, and create a better experience for both technicians and customers. But too often, they fall into the “perceived efficiency” trap, assuming that just having the software in place will Read more

By Jenny Benbrook

Home service contractors put serious money into field service management (FSM) software and other digital tools, expecting them to streamline operations, boost profits, and create a better experience for both technicians and customers. But too often, they fall into the “perceived efficiency” trap, assuming that just having the software in place will deliver results.

The reality? Without a strategic approach to budgeting, implementation, training, and ongoing management, that investment can become an expensive headache instead of a game-changer. Technology should serve the business, not the other way around. The right tools, aligned with business goals and managed effectively, can maximize efficiency, improve workflows, and drive real revenue growth.

Why Implementation is Just the Beginning

FSM platforms like ServiceTitan and FieldEdge are powerful tools that can transform a business—when properly set up, used, and maintained. These platforms provide insights into operations, from tracking inventory and equipment maintenance to optimizing technician scheduling and following up on unsold estimates.

Take unsold estimates as an example. Contractors spend a fortune on marketing, lead generation, and technician dispatch just to get an estimate in front of a potential customer. But if that estimate isn’t followed up on, it’s money wasted. Leveraging FSM software to track, automate follow-ups, and increase close rates can unlock millions in revenue, turning lost opportunities into booked jobs.

But software success doesn’t stop at implementation. Without a proper training plan, standardized workflows, and dedicated oversight, even a well-implemented system can fall apart. Poor training leads to inconsistent usage, undocumented workflows create confusion, and a lack of tech stack management causes inefficiencies that negate the software’s benefits. A tool is only as good as the process it supports. If you don’t have a plan, technology just becomes another expense.

Common Roadblocks to Long-Term Software Success

Many contractors struggle with software adoption and optimization due to several key challenges:

Time Commitment: Learning a new platform takes time, and so does training a team to use it correctly. Without dedicated effort, even the best software won’t deliver its full potential.

Change Resistance: Asking a seasoned team to adopt new workflows can be tough. People get comfortable with how they work, and changing that, even for the better, can be met with pushback.

Lack of a Clear Plan: Many businesses invest in software without defining what success looks like. Without clear goals, implementation lacks direction, and the software’s value isn’t fully realized.

No Dedicated Tech Stack Management: Software is not a one-and-done purchase, it requires an ongoing financial commitment for optimization, training, and troubleshooting. Without a dedicated resource to manage the tech stack, inefficiencies and outdated workflows can creep in, reducing ROI.

Overwhelm from Too Many Tools: Contractors are drowning in technology options, with too many tools and no strategy. The greatest risk isn’t adopting technology too quickly, it’s adopting it without intention.

Getting the Most Out of Your Investment

To avoid these pitfalls, contractors should approach software implementation and long-term success with a structured plan. Here’s how to start:

Set Specific Goals – Identify what you want to achieve with your software. Are you trying to increase technician efficiency? Reduce inventory waste? Close more estimates? Improve customer communication? Define success in measurable terms.

Dedicate Financial Resources – Contractors should allocate 2-5% of projected annual revenue toward technology. This budget should not only cover software licensing but also implementation, training, ongoing support, and a dedicated internal or external resource to manage the tech stack. A clear roadmap prevents wasted time and money. Technology adoption should be intentional, seamless, and impactful.

Develop a Standardized Training Plan – A good implementation won’t matter if your team doesn’t know how to use the software correctly. Learning technology is not a one-and-done activity. Establish a structured training process, provide documentation, and offer continuous learning opportunities to keep employees up to speed.

Document and Maintain Workflows – Standardized processes ensure that every team member is using the software consistently. Powerhouse Consulting Group provides a structured, step-by-step approach to technology adoption with a technology playbook to ensure proper implementation, set expectations, process documentation, training, and more.

Invest in Ongoing Optimization – Success requires ongoing optimization, not just a one-time setup. Technology changes daily, and businesses need structured validation, tracking performance, optimizing workflows, and driving measurable results over time.

Why Professional Guidance Pays Off

Contractors don’t expect customers to install HVAC systems or electrical panels without professional expertise, so why should software be any different? FSM consultants spend thousands of hours mastering these platforms, learning the best configurations, workflows, and integrations to maximize their value.

Trying to implement a major system without expert help is like wiring your house without an electrician. You might get some lights to work, but it won’t be safe, efficient, or built to last. Powerhouse Consulting Group is the trusted guide for technology adoption, ensuring that tools are used efficiently and effectively. We don’t just vet and implement tools; we teach contractors how to maximize their value.

Final Thoughts

The future of the trades isn’t just about fixing what’s broken, it’s about anticipating what’s next. The industry is shifting toward data-driven decision-making, and contractors who strategically implement technology now will lead in the next 5-10 years. Investing in technology isn’t just about tools, it’s about building a scalable business.

Powerhouse isn’t just a consultant; we are a strategic partner helping contractors scale and thrive. Our hands-on, business-first approach ensures that contractors get real value from their technology investments. There is no easy button, but contractors who put in the work and follow the right process will build sustainable, profitable businesses.

Jenny Benbrook is the founder and CEO of Powerhouse Consulting Group. Drawing from more than 20 years of experience in the skilled trades, Jenny provides strategic coaching and consultation for home service businesses seeking to make the most of their software investments. Powerhouse Consulting Group is the first and only ServiceTitan Titanium Partner, and also provides in-depth expertise regarding FieldEdge. More information is available at mypowerhouse.group.

Agency receives high rankings in national survey of industry leaders for their expertise and results in fields of specialization Ripley PR, an award-winning global public relations agency specializing in skilled trades, manufacturing, franchising and B2B technology, has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Top PR Agencies for 2024. To highlight the public relations agencies Read more

Agency receives high rankings in national survey of industry leaders for their expertise and results in fields of specialization

Ripley PR, an award-winning global public relations agency specializing in skilled trades, manufacturing, franchising and B2B technology, has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Top PR Agencies for 2024.

To highlight the public relations agencies that are the most recommended in their sector or specialization in the United States, Newsweek partnered with Statista to release the list of America’s Best PR agencies this month.

The final list of 150 agencies is based on a survey of PR agency employees and owners, as well as people who work in the PR, communications or marketing departments of an American company. The agencies with the most recommendations represent 11 client sectors and 13 specializations. Sectors include areas of practice like consumer goods, health care and industrial and manufacturing services. The specializations focus on services such as event planning, media strategy and influencer relations.

“Receiving this award is a particularly humbling experience since we were nominated by professionals who work in the industries we serve, and they supported us throughout the process,” said Ripley PR founder and CEO Heather Ripley. “It’s evidence that our clients trust the expertise of our dedicated team of practitioners who are committed to delivering outstanding results. They work hard every day to make sure our clients receive exceptional service on an individualized level.”

According to the Newsweek and Statista ranking system, Ripley PR received a five-star ranking for its work in the Industrial and Manufacturing sector. The company also received four-star ratings in the following specializations:

  • Brand reputation and marketing
  • Event planning
  • Internal corporate communication and employee engagement
  • Media relations and advertising
  • Media strategy planning

“The team at Ripley PR is goal-oriented and strives to provide the best possible results for our clients,” Ripley said. “We want to be partners with our clients, and we go out of our way to develop a relationship with them so we can build on our successes together. Our clients recognize that we advocate for them on a daily basis and this honor reinforces that our agency is among the best PR providers for the skilled trades, B2B tech, manufacturing and franchising industries.”

Founded in 2013, Ripley PR offers its clients strategic communications services, including crisis and reputation management, communications strategies, media relations and strategic planning. The agency’s unique combination of expertise and creativity in public relations helps clients build brand awareness, establish a positive reputation, and capture the attention of the news and trade media covering their industries.

For more information visit www.ripleypr.com or call (865) 977-1973.

Based on survey responses, the report covers how text messaging is being used in business communications today, predicts where the market is heading in the next 12 months, and explores what challenges and opportunities this creates for businesses. 70% of people say texting is the fastest way to reach them. That’s just one of the Read more

Based on survey responses, the report covers how text messaging is being used in business communications today, predicts where the market is heading in the next 12 months, and explores what challenges and opportunities this creates for businesses.

70% of people say texting is the fastest way to reach them. That’s just one of the many findings in the 2024 State of Business Texting Report published today by Text Request, the industry-leading business messaging platform. The report, anchored in more than a thousand survey responses, details how organizations are texting with customers and employees, what trends to expect over the next calendar year, and what opportunities this creates for businesses.

“Rather than blasting out promotions to subscribers, which can be very effective, most organizations are using text messaging for everyday conversations and to replace phone calls,” says Text Request VP of Marketing Kenneth Burke, who led the survey and analysis. “Businesses are seeing that text is the most effective way to connect with customers and employees quickly and get a response, so they’re taking advantage of that opportunity for everyone’s benefit.”

Significant findings in the 2024 State of Business Texting Report include:

  • 74% of people read every text they get
  • 54% of organizations say text message is the most effective channel for getting a response
  • 75% of organizations are texting for customer service
  • 87% of consumers want to receive texts about appointment scheduling and reminders
  • 66% of people get 20 or fewer texts per day—far less than the average email count of 156—making text a great way to stand out in communications

“If you’re going to reach someone quickly, you’ve got to text them,” says Text Request CEO Brian Elrod. “That’s something we’ve all felt, and this data supports that experience. Think about how helpful it is to be able to reach everyone immediately, and get a response. You can get twice as much done in half the time, cut costs, and increase revenue. That’s the trifecta.”

The report goes on to show how this data can be applied throughout organizations for customer service, sales, marketing, hiring, and more. To view the complete report, go to: https://www.textrequest.com/ebooks/state-of-business-texting-2024

One of the biggest things a home service professional needs when it comes to growing their business is great customer service. And that is where more and better sales will happen. Happy customers, when it comes to home services, are repeat customers. But what else can you do to sell more?  First Impression No matter Read more

One of the biggest things a home service professional needs when it comes to growing their business is great customer service. And that is where more and better sales will happen. Happy customers, when it comes to home services, are repeat customers. But what else can you do to sell more? 

First Impression

No matter what the circumstances, a first impression matters. But when you are a home service provider, you need to be extra vigilant. Why? Because as a plumber, you are entering someone’s private space – as a stranger. 

It is your job to put them instantly at ease; being friendly and positive is essential. Since you never know what state the house or the person is in, being nonjudgmental and focusing on the job is necessary. Use your name to introduce yourself, and quickly find some common ground – the weather is often the easiest to use. 

Value 

When you are focused only on the upsell and increasing profits, you’re not likely to see a huge improvement. If, however, you approach it from a ‘what is value to this customer?’, things change; instead of trying to sell them the most expensive one, as them what they need and opt for the best value, often, customers will want regular maintenance, repairs, and more when they understand how it benefits them and the value it offers. 

Additional services are where your skills as a plumber shine; most customers can’t do what you do – and in some cases, they don’t even understand it. Show them the issue and explain the solution. These issues could be anything from corrosion, leaks, old heaters, bad pipes, and more. 

Training 

Confidence is key when it comes to selling more services and products, and often, that takes some dedicated sales training. A sales training LMS can be used by the entire company, no matter how big or small, to ensure that everyone gets the same training and understands what matters most to the customer. 

Clarity 

Customers need the information they receive to be clear and effective. That means that saying it might cost X and it could take Y will feel uncertain to them. Using language that makes sense to your customer is important. 

Transparency is essential; if you can go through a pricing structure and give them a strong suggestion of how long it will take, they will feel more secure in your services. You can tell them what the scope of the work is so that they are prepared for any mess, the time, and the cost in advance of agreeing to any work. 

Other Services 

Depending on the company you work for, or if you own your own company, you can talk about other services that they will need. Weave the different services into the conversation, or be bolder and suggest them and why they are beneficial. Many customers would prefer to have a single company or person do other jobs in the home once a rapport is made. 

Getting calls in the first place usually comes from using these online techniques: Top 9 Most Effective SEO Strategies for Business – Mechanical Hub | News, Product Reviews, Videos, and Resources for today’s contractors. So, a combination of in-person sales and excellent online management is a must to truly see an increase in profits. 

Do you have big plans for your plumbing business? Are you ready to take your company to the next level? If so, you may have been considering expanding your company. Growing your plumbing business is the ideal way to take it to the next level of success, and now is a great time to do Read more

Do you have big plans for your plumbing business? Are you ready to take your company to the next level? If so, you may have been considering expanding your company. Growing your plumbing business is the ideal way to take it to the next level of success, and now is a great time to do it. Right now, the demand for plumbers is high. According to a recent HBI Construction Labor Market Report, there is a 55% shortage of plumbers that are available to work. 

The shortage of plumbers provides you with the ideal opportunity to capitalize on this increased demand for your services. But, even when demand is high for your services, choosing to expand your business is still a big decision to make. 

Taking steps to grow your business is always something that should be done carefully. Diving straight into scaling your business and investing significant amounts of money and resources to facilitate the expansion can be a costly error to make.

Putting too much of your time, money, and effort into growing your company can jeopardize your entire business and put everything you have worked so hard for at risk. To protect your business and to reduce the risks associated with expansion, it is crucial to take a measured approach. Read on to discover essential tips to help you successfully expand your plumbing business and help your company to reach its full potential.

Carry Out Extensive Research

Finding ways to reduce the risk of expanding your business is always crucial. Doing all that you can to protect your company as it is right now is essential. Otherwise, you risk sacrificing everything that you have worked for up to this point.

One of the best ways to reduce the risks involved in expanding your business is to carry out extensive research. Treating your expansion plans in the same way that you would a new business can be helpful. This means carrying out lots of research to familiarize yourself with competing businesses and the services that they offer. This will give you a far clearer idea of the types of services your business should offer if you want to compete directly.

Make a Plan

Taking a look through all the research that you have gathered together should mean that you now have a huge body of information that you can use to inform your expansion decisions. All of this research information may seem a little overwhelming to start with, but it is worth taking your time to work through it all, as it is the perfect way to understand who your competitors will be and how you can rival them successfully.

Working your way through all your research to build your knowledge is also the ideal way to identify any gaps in the market that your newly-expanded business will be able to fill. Based on all this information, you will be able to write a thorough business plan that details your expansion plans. Your business plan will provide to be vital in the weeks and months ahead, as you can keep referring back to it to ensure your progress stays on track.

Explore Opportunities

When you decide to expand your business, a whole host of opportunities will open up to you. You will be able to reach a whole new section of clients and even have the capability to offer specialist services based on your team’s expertise. Once you start to look for new opportunities, you will soon find that there are lots of options to explore in your quest to grow your business. 

When you are just starting out on your journey into expansion, it is essential to keep your cash flow in mind at all times. Keeping your cash flow healthy is vital when expanding your business. Many companies make the mistake of stretching their finances too far during their growth phase, which means that they put their businesses under unsustainable levels of pressure. To overcome this, you may want to seek out contracts that offer your company repeat business to help your business to expand successfully while also maintaining a healthy cash flow. Pitching your business in the commercial sector is the best way to do this. Securing a contract to take care of all of a business’s plumbing needs and ongoing maintenance is an excellent way to receive a steady income for your business. As your team and your reputation continue to grow, you should find you attract more ongoing clients.

Invest in Software

While your business may have been successfully operating for a while now, it is essential to remember that the way you run it will need to change as it grows. More employees and an increase in jobs mean that it will be much harder to keep track of what is happening in your business on a daily basis. However, as your business grows, it becomes more important than ever before for it to stay organized and for you to keep track of what is happening both on a day-to-day level and at an operational level.

When you have employees going off to jobs in many different locations throughout the day, it can be an ongoing challenge to try and keep track of where they are and what job they are currently working on. But knowing this information is vital if you are to offer your customers the very best service and to keep your business running efficiently.        

Investing in the best field service management software will make running your business so much easier. You will be able to organize your team’s workload more efficiently while also ensuring that your customers get a far better service. Choosing software that offers live field updates will help you to monitor where your team members are at any one time. This is vital when you run a plumbing business and will help you to provide an emergency plumbing service to your customers and to get your team to them in the fastest possible time.