In the green industry business it's important to be efficient and in this day and age what better tool is available to help with efficiency than technology? It can be tempting to stick with old ways and try to do everything yourself. Don't get me wrong, I am weary about all of the changes technology has given us too. However, you never know until you try, right? I can almost guarantee if you let the incredible advancements of technology help your green industry business even just a little bit, you will be glad you gave it a chance. Along with getting with the times and investing in software for your green industry business, we want to give you a few more tips to help with the operational efficiency of your company.
1. Link QuickBooks. Linking QuickBooks will make the accounting process for your small business a whole lot easier. You'll be able to track your sales and expenses and be able to track payroll a whole lot easier. I know that it can be tempting to prove your elementary math skills, but get with the times! Just kidding, but seriously, why make your brain hurt when it doesn't have to?
2. Keep a history of jobs. Keep a log of your clientele. This will help your business to remain organized and will also help with routing in the future. Even if you do an odd job for a client on a single occasion it doesn't hurt to have their contact information on file for when business is slow and you need some extra manual marketing. Also, another plus is if you are loyal to your customers you will see that it really means a lot more to your customers. Try to make your customer feel valued and appreciated. If you call every now and again to see what their needs are they will know that they are valued as more than just a customer. They'll feel valued as a friend as well.
3. Route more effectively. Keep track of the areas where you have found that your green industry business most succeeds. You will waste less time and earn more money if you take the time to assess your company's routes. Try to schedule appointments that are in the same area consecutively. This way, your company is not paying for the extra gas that is required to travel from one end of the metro to the other. If you route more effectively, your business will thank you for it (literally and figuratively). Your company will be more organized it and- you guessed it- efficient.
4. Remind customers of appointments. Take the time to call customers if they have an upcoming appointment. This becomes especially important if they need to be there while you are there. This also circles back to taking the time to make your customers feel valued. If you are taking the time to personally remind your customers of their appointments it will pay off in the grander scheme of things. If it so happens that you come to their home and you aren't there you are not only losing a profit but you are also wasting time. Software can help you keep track of appointments and you can set reminders for both your staff and your customers.
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