We've discussed the importance of technology in glazing before, but today we're going to look at three specific areas that are important to customers: how they find you, how you quote them, and how they pay you.
If you're relying on the phone book or other printed directories to get your name out there, you're missing out on valuable business.
Here are a couple of interesting statistics about Google searches from 2016:
That means the likelihood of someone searching for 'glazier near me' or a search term along those lines has doubled in the past year. If you are relying on printed directories, you could be the closest supplier to the customer and they'd have no idea how to find you.
Tips for glaziers:
If you're still using carbon paper or NCR notepads for your quotes and invoices, you should start thinking about a more efficient solution. Customers, particularly younger ones who are used to carrying out transactions electronically, value the clarity and transparency that a computer-generated invoice provides.
Not only does a clearly laid out invoice benefit the customer, it's also in your interests. Your priority should be making it easy for customers to pay you, don't put up obstacles to receive your money! Clearly state payment terms and accepted methods, when the invoice is due, and break down the numbers to show labor, supplies, and tax separately.
If you're already using accounting software (such as QuickBooks or Xero), which you definitely should be to make your life easier, you'll be able to create invoices directly in the software. Or you could use our Smart-Toolbox software to manage each job from beginning to end, and sync it automatically with your existing accounting program.
Whilst checks are still reasonably common in North America, their usage decreases each year and they are virtually obsolete in Europe, Asia and Oceania. With the proliferation of online payment systems, customers are more accustomed than ever to paying via their card (or phone), or entering their credit card information online.
If you're using Xero or QuickBooks, you can add a payment link to the bottom of your invoices and customers can pay straight away by credit card. It doesn't get much easier than that!
Our Sales and Implementation Manager, Sam Frankland, will be giving a presentation on technology in the glazing industry at Glass Australia in August. He'll be discussing new technology and integration, be sure to check out his presentation if you're interested in the topic!