Restarting

Well, things are finally starting to get back to normal, at least in my field of concrete.  Lucky for me and most contractors, our work is done either outside or usually in an empty home or business where the social distancing is a regular occurrence.  It is a big relief to know that while there are so many people out of work and just about out of business, my profession carries on.  People are still doing home projects, and are still wanting to update and work on their homes.  So with all of that being said...let's get back to the real stuff that matters.  How a concrete business works and the next appropriate steps to take to in this new world we're living in.  By new world I do not mean a world with a virus, I mean a new world that is more online than any thing else.  So I've been discussing this situation with my website and marketing people.  And so far have come up with the idea that we need to have a more user friendly approach to getting customers their quotes and just keeping in contact with them in general.  As of right now the website people are working on a new form that will pop-up when anyone is looking through the website, to get them to decide right then and there if they are serious about getting any kind of new concrete.  The form will not just be a typical contact form but an actual detailed questionnaire about the project that they are thinking about having done.  So that way, by the time I actually give them a call back, I have in front of me the whole project idea.  Sometimes if the job is cut and dry, I can give a quick quote right through text message or email, which also allows me to weed out the tire kickers of the world and be able to more focus on the customers that are serious about getting the work done.  There are also really cool options available with new-to-me technology that automates the transaction between me and the customer.  From them filling out the form, sending an automated quick response of thank you and just keeping the communication lines open.  And then even following up with them and finding out when/if they are ready to move forward and when we can put them in the books.  Not only that, but having the option for them to make their payments online and have their credit card and things on file.  Also automatic thank yous and general customer service pleasantries.  It seems crazy to me to be moving in this direction with my concrete business, but also pretty exciting to be maybe leading the way and setting myself apart, with a more user friendly service in this increasingly online world we live in.  I have high hopes and big faith in making this work so well, I'll be able to refer the service to other concrete people, that will surely benefit.  : )  Until next time.