The Texas Irrigation Association and HindSite Software co-hosted a virtual “Coffee with Contractors” event, and as always, the conversation was excellent. Getting top contractors in a room to have an open conversation about the industry - its issues, opportunities, and changes - always leaves us energized. Here’s what you need to know, as we discussed what top contractors are focusing on in 2024.
Growth is still the name of the game.
Contractors are expecting to grow again this year, and things are a bit hectic as they get ready for the spring season. The housing market did soften, but not too badly, and might already be coming back as interest rates stabilize and will slowly come down this year.
But for the first time in a while, installs are second fiddle. A lot of systems in the ground are aging, and the opportunity for renovations, upgrades, and other work with existing clients is massive. If you’re not already using a system scorecard, now’s the time to implement one.
Teaching FNGs is harder than finding them.
We all agree, there’s still a labor shortage. However, these top contractors are having a harder time teaching new talent, than finding it. Irrigation technicians are highly skilled in troubleshooting, calculations, plumbing, and electrical.
They also need the soft skills to work with homeowners or property managers, and often are your best source for those opportunities with existing clients… and it takes years to build all of those skill! Taking the time to train your people, and to have a formal training program, will do wonders. Many turn to their suppliers and local associations to provide the right tools.
And don’t forget, train on the business too, not just the technical side. When it comes to keeping new talent - people that you’re investing in, with all of this training - being able to see a career path within your company is key. If you’re offering competitive pay and decent benefits (PTO, insurance, etc., which more and more contractors are), then it comes down to education. And snacks. We all like snacks.
AI isn’t as important as people think.
Look, don’t get us wrong, it’s a great tool, and - as a technology company - it’s a lot of fun. But the practical application of technology is far more important than bells and whistles. The biggest area top contractors are focusing on?
Customer service. Automating communication, and getting the right information to the right people (especially field techs) is #1 when it comes to the most important technology this year. For customers, that looks like triggered emails and text messages to clients, the ability to digitally deliver bids, and to accept payment online.
And those wifi controllers everyone keeps talking about? Yep, that’s all about better customer service too. For technicians and crews in the field, it comes down to maintaining an effective route and making sure there’s access to property information and job notes.
This took a bigger role in the discussion than we’ve heard in the past. Putting labor aside for a moment, good communication between the office and the field was listed as the biggest obstacle to an effective operation.
So, your takeaways? It’s going to be a good year, so invest in training your new technicians, and invest in the technology tools to make your operations efficient, and your customers happy. We might know a thing or two about that.
