tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-335467562024-02-08T08:19:08.078-05:00Painting Business How To TipsPainting Business Tips, Tricks and strategies for running a successful painting business. Use and Profit from nearly two decades painting skills, business and consulting experience.Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-84805137229281252512012-12-05T21:39:00.000-05:002012-12-05T21:39:36.871-05:00NEW Special Report: State of the Painting Industry We are gearing up for a great 2013. LOTS of painting business marketing tips and business growth advice to share.<br />
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For now head over to <a href="http://www.startapaintingbusiness.com/">www.StartAPaintingBusiness.com</a> and take advantage of the December discount price on the #1 Rater Painting for Profits program. (It will become your step-by-step internal operations manual.) <br />
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I'm in the process of finishing up a brand new special report called: "2013 The State of the Painting Industry... " Insider Strategies for Positioning Your Painting Business at the TOP of Your Market.<br />
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I'll post a link on this blog when it's ready. <br />
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For now, relax and enjoy the Holiday Season!<br />
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Andy Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-69092449582040353952011-09-26T21:15:00.004-04:002011-09-26T21:36:04.926-04:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><b>Tip #3 of 3 -</b> </span><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">“How to create instant loyalty using a simple ‘storyselling’ technique”</span></strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Look, the fact is, you are more than just a painter or painting business owner… You are a:</span></p><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Father or Mother</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Brother or Sister</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Volunteer</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Parishioner</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Sports fan</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Fisherman</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Musician</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Among SO many other things…</span></li></ul><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My point is, YOU ARE so much more than your profession… and to be honest, it is better to be ANY of these things when you walk into a prospects house to bid a paint job. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Let me explain.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">When painting contractors walk into a new prospects house and instantly go into professional painting business owner mode, it creates resistance between themselves and the home owner.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">…But on the other hand, when you walk into a home and you are a father or mother, uncle or aunt, etc. you are a person that the home owner can relate to.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Let me explain further.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It’s a fact that people like to do business with ‘people’ they like. Notice I said people, NOT businesses they like. If a home owner only ever sees you as a business owner, there will always be uneasiness because there is an issue of money. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">On the other hand, when they see you as a human (because you tell a story that they can relate to) you become more like a friend that can be trusted.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Does that make sense? </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Let me share my personal story about how I used storyselling to explode my business when I was just getting started. (You can use the storyselling technique at any stage of your business.)</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Just before I moved to Michigan to start my own business, I found out that one of my Aunts had Leukemia… and I happened to be growing my hair out at the time. (I played the drums my whole life, and I still had the dream of becoming a rock star and back in the day, long hair was the look.)</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">When I got to Michigan, all of my extended family and friends advised me to cut my hair, as they thought it would turn people off. They said I looked like a hippy burn-out and no one would trust me or take me seriously. They said it made a bad first impression, and on and on. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I have never been one to conform to other people’s expectations, but it sounded like they may have a point. I knew the trade and how to provide a quality finished product, and I knew I was honest and trustworthy, so I was confident that I could land clients, despite the length of my hair, but the objections from my family and friends kept playing in my mind.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I always felt most comfortable with long hair (or a mohawk) but I wanted to build a successful business, so I decided to get my hair cut. Gulp! Then I got a GREAT idea!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I had learned about a charity organization called “Locks-of-Love” that takes donated hair and turns it into wigs for people with cancer who lost their hair due to radiation therapy. PERFECT!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">…But, there needed to be a minimum of 10 inches of hair for them to use and at the time I only had about 8 inches. I decided that my new reason for growing my hair was so I could donate it to Locks-of-Love and have it made into a wig for my aunt! </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">All of a sudden I was no longer a hippy burn-out, but rather a deeply caring person contributing an unselfish act for the betterment of someone else! I was now a hero and not a hippy!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And that story became the foundation of my success early on! As soon as I walked in the door and met people face to face for the first time, I would say:</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">“Please excuse the length of my hair… my aunt has Leukemia and I am growing it out to donate to Locks-of-Love to be made into a wig for her.”</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Do you think anyone ever saw me as a hippy? NO WAY! In fact, it gave me INSTANT credibility as the type of a kind; caring person people LOVE to do business with!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My story has changed many times over the years, but MANY of the customers I worked for so many years ago are still clients today. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Spend some time coming up with story ideas that you can use to endear yourself to prospective customers and watch your business EXPLODE! </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">REMEMBER people like to do business with people they like and trust… here are a few ideas to help get you started:</span></p><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Talk about how your company donates money to a local charity</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Talk about how excited you are that your company is helping raise money for some community project. </span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Talk about how you’ve been working with your kids (or someone else’s kids) to learn a new language, improve at a sport, volunteer to clean up the community park, etc.</span></li></ul><p><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">As you can see, storyselling is the MASTER KEY to unlocking the gate of resistance that stands between you and landing more paint jobs and long term clients.</span></strong></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I hope this tip serves you!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Please humor me for a second while I share a quick story about why I decided to create the Painting for Profits program and update it yearly to make sure it always contains the most up-to-date information working in the industry.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">When I started painting professionally (at age 18) I became proficient and learned the skills very quickly. I think that had something to do with the fact that I was good with my hands from playing the drums my whole life.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After years working in the trade and learning other aspects of the business, I was at the top of the pay structure earning $27/hr with no place to go.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I was lucky coming up and I had a few REALLY Great bosses who taught me many important skills that helped me make the transition into my own business. Things like people skills, work ethic, under promising and over delivering, etc. (All of which are more important than painting skills).</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The last manager I worked for really took me under his wing and showed me the big picture and the potential success that could come from owning my own business. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I remember him saying to me “Andy, if you take your painting skills, and the skills I am teaching you seriously, you can use them to build a beautiful life for yourself and your family.”</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I did just that…</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">When I told him I was moving back to Michigan to start my own business, he was thrilled. (Bummed that he was losing such a dedicated employee, but never the less, happy for me.)</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">On my last day working for him he pulled me aside and told me how proud of me he was that I put so much time, energy and effort into developing my talent, and he wanted to help me get started off to a fast start with my new business.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I figured he was going to give me a nice cash bonus to help with the 1800 mile move or buy some equipment, etc. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">NOPE.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">What he gave me was worth so much more than a fist full of cash. He gave me his KNOWLEDGE!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Paul laid out his entire bidding and estimating strategy in step by step detail… and as he handed me the envelope, he looked me in the eye and said, “Andy, if you use this information to become successful in your own business, I want you to promise me that you will help other painters, when the time is right.”</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Paul’s insider bidding and estimating secrets were instrumental in my success… in fact, they are the reason I was profitable from the very first job I landed.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I include Paul’s master outline as part of the Bid to Win Estimating system which is included in the Painting for Profits course. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The painting trade has been very good to me and my family. I have had to learn a lot through trial and error. I have spent the better part of my adult life putting time, energy and effort into figuring out what works and what doesn’t when it comes to growing a successful paint contracting business.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I created the original Painting for Profits course to help guide house painters through the process of starting a business of their own and helping them takes full control of their financial future.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Over the course of the last five years, I have updated and expanded the program to make sure it is BY FAR the best success manual on the market. A claim that has been validated by over 3,000 satisfied customers. </span></p><p><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">One of my favorite facts about the Painting for Profits systems is that they work all over the world! </span></strong></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We have success stories and testimonials from the U.S., Canada, Europe, U.K., Australia, New Zeeland, (even Brazil and Africa)!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I keep the cost of the program low (under $100) so anyone with the desire to side step the frustration of figuring things out through the costly process of trial and error can easily afford it. AND I stand behind P4P unconditionally with my no questions asked M O N E Y back guarantee!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">If you are struggling to get (or keep) your painting business moving in the right direction, you owe it to yourself to give Painting for Profits a try. You have nothing to lose, and a more successful business to gain.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I look forward to adding you to my growing list of satisfied (successful) P4P customers!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Now go market your painting business,<br />Andy</span></p></span>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-22369765144613065772011-09-26T20:46:00.009-04:002011-09-26T21:33:44.912-04:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><p><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Tip #2 of 3: “The POWER of offering your customers different pricing options”</span></b></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">One of the key secrets of successful painting contractors is their ability to meet and work within a customer’s budget. (READ THAT AGAIN)</span></p><p><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">One of the biggest mistakes you can make bidding paint jobs is to only offer one price! </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> (</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I have a feeling that this tip is going to revolutionize a lot of painting businesses</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.)</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Look, we all know that painting is a luxury and not a necessity and when most people decide to have painting done, they know exactly what their budget is going into the project. Of course there is always a little wiggle room, but not much, so if your price is way outside the budget range, it won’t even be considered.</span></p><p><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Pay close attention because I’m about to give you the FIX…</span></b></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">For example:</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Let’s say you are bidding on a job to refinish/reface a bunch of kitchen cabinets. As you know there is a lot of prep work for that type of job (hinge and hardware removal and replacement, etc.) as well as a multiple step process for getting a nice looking finish. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Let’s say the cost to have your company do ALL the work is $1500.00 which could be itemized on the bid contract. Unfortunately most contractors would go in and submit a bid with a single price of $1500.00, but the SMART contractor who offers pricing options, has a much better chance of landing the job.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Let me explain.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The average home owner knows how to use a screwdriver or drill… what if you offered some kind of discount or savings option, based on the home owner removing all the hardware and taking down the cupboard doors? </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Imagine how much time that would save YOU if all you had to do was drive over and load the doors and drawers into your truck and leave!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I know for a fact that MOST people want to save the hundred + dollars by doing that part of the job themselves, and since you are the only contractor who is creative, kind and caring enough to offer such an option, more times than not, you will get the job.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">There are many options you can offer, here are just a few:</span></p><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Paint quality option</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Multiple payment option</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Room prep option (they move all the furniture and wall hangings, etc.)</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Paint and supply pick up option (customer picks up the paint/supplies from store)</span></li></ul><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Giving prospects a way to save some money on their project is one of the BEST ways to stand out from the competition and save you a bunch of time.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When you are sensitive or empathetic to the budgetary needs of prospects right from the get go, it builds a sense of trust and as a bonus it makes it much easier to highlight the value of the higher priced offer. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I know this tip will serve you well. Please do share your success stories with me once you start applying this powerful pricing strategy!</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The next post is tip #3 of 3 – </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">“How to create instant loyalty using a simple ‘storyselling’ technique”</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> and I’ll share my story about why I decided to create Painting for Profits.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Now go market your painting business,<br />Andy</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To checkout the latest promotion go to <a href="http://www.on2url.com/app/adtrack.asp?MerchantID=103489&AdID=569594" target="_blank">www.StartAPaintingBusiness.com</a> and get Painting for Profits at the lowest price of the season. </span></p></span>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-79477303962538791182011-09-26T13:31:00.014-04:002011-09-26T21:38:54.590-04:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Tip #1 of 3: “Use an expiration date or deadline on ALL of your contracts/bids.”</span></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">You know as well as I do that people will drag their feet if you let them. That’s why you should NEVER submit an open ended bid/contract.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you have been in the painting business for any length of time then you know that the price of materials (especially paint, AND GAS) can fluctuate throughout the year. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Putting an expiration date on your contracts encourages people to make a decision, or risk paying a higher price down the road.</span></i></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So what is the optimal amount of time for the deadline?</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Good question. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Typically you don’t want to go much shorter than 15 days... and certainly no longer than 30 days, because the last thing you want to do is keep bugging someone to see if they made a decision.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I personally like 30 days because it gives a good solid follow up time schedule.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you don’t hear back within 15 days make a follow up call letting them know you would love to secure them in your schedule. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">On a side note, you can even at that point offer some kind of special promotion to create even more urgency. (</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I give you over a dozen promotion ideas inside Painting for Profits</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.)</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If you are unable to get a firm commitment on that first follow up call, let them know that you will be making another follow up call “just before the deadline expires on the estimate.” Then make one last follow up call a few days before the contract expires.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If the prospect still can’t make a decision or they decided to go with another company, simply file the bid contract away into a “FUTURE CUSTOMER” file that you will follow up with again later in the year, with another type of offer.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">You do follow up with ALL of your NO’s don’t you? You should! Not only is it a great source of information about your marketplace, and it doesn’t cost anything to send an email with multiple types of offers throughout the year.</span></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">RECAP</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">: Never submit an open ended bid/contract... ALWAYS use some kind of deadline to create urgency!</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Be sure to read my next post: Tip #2 of 3 – </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">“The POWER of offering your customers different pricing options”</span></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Now go market your painting business,<br />Andy</span></span></p><div><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div></span>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-33937311784407981152011-08-17T11:20:00.012-04:002012-02-07T15:27:41.826-05:005 Easy Ways to Increase Good Will and Boost the Profits of Your Painting Business<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">5 Easy Ways To Increase Good Will And </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Boost The Profits Of Your Painting Business</span></span><br /></div><br />This past year has been very tough… Sure you may have stayed consistent, but has your business grown?<br /><br />Now with the approaching fall/winter/holiday season right around the corner (here in North America) anxiety and stress levels are rising for many painting business owners as they try to schedule as many late season jobs as they can, in order to stay afloat through the upcoming slow season.<br /><br />With that in mind, here are five quality tips to help you increase good will and boost profits for your painting business.<br /><br /><ol><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Follow up with past customers and past “no’s” and make them a specific offer or a special promotion.</span><br /><br />Very few painting contractors ever follow up with past customers, let alone the people who didn’t accept their bid… BIG mistake.<br /><br />Did you know by doing regular past customer follow up, you can add up to 20-30% profits to your bottom line?<br /><br />It’s true! And one of the main reasons is because it doesn’t cost anything to advertise to these people. (Other than your time)<br /><br />Create a simple email or better yet, call them up on the phone and find out if they, or anyone they know needs any last minute work done.<br /><br />If nothing else, you are creating good will by following up. If they say they don’t need any additional work done this season, ASK THIS QUESTION:<br /><br />What is the next painting project you will want to focus on for NEXT YEAR? (I’m sure I don’t have to tell you what to do with that information come next spring… right?)<br /><br />This is just one of the strategies outlined for you, (step-by-step with examples and scripts) in Painting for Profits.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Create Good Will by supporting local business… Give customers a thank you gift card after each job.</span><br /><br />One of my favorite ways to create Good Will is to support local restaurants. NOT chain/franchise restaurants, but LOCAL mom and pop places.<br /><br />If you haven’t spent any time talking to (networking with) local business owners, you aren’t doing your job and you certainly aren’t growing your business “the easy way.”<br /><br />It is simple to have local restaurants, hardware stores, ice cream shops, etc. DONATE a few gift certificates for you to give away to your customers as a thank you gift once the paint job is complete.<br /><br />AND more times than not, you will get additional business because the owners of these places will refer your business whenever they hear of someone who needs painting.<br /><br />This is an example of a classic Joint Venture situation and it is one of the most powerful strategies for growing your painting business in this slow economy.<br /><br />Again, I outline the entire process for finding and creating Joint Venture partnerships (step-by-step with examples and scripts) in Painting for Profits!<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Volunteer to collect food or clothes for needy families in your area.</span><br /><br />Another way to create Good Will and raise awareness about your painting business is to do a good deed!<br /><br />Over the course of a month, you can collect food or clothes from customers and donate them to your local Salvation Army store or food pantry.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Create an offer something like this</span>: <span style="font-style: italic;">Donate a bag of groceries (Or clothes) and get $100 off your paint job…</span><br /><br />Once all the goods are collected, get your crew (or family) together and deliver them to the charity of choice.<br /><br />Not only does it feel good to make a difference, it is something people REMEMBER and it WILL set your painting business apart from all the others!<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get involved with or create a community event that brings people together.</span><br /><br />It’s a GREAT time of year for attending or creating a community event!<br /><br />In fact, if your city or town is anything like mine, there are already dozens of them happening all around town.<br /><br />It’s easy to get involved too… and doing so will create a lot of awareness about your business!<br /><br />If you go to your local government web site, there is usually a link on the homepage that says “Events” or “Community Events” click on it to pull up a list of fairs, festivals, parades, etc.<br /><br />Make a call to the person listed as the organizer or coordinator and ask what you can do to get involved.<br /><br />Consider volunteering for clean up or set up duties. Take your entire crew or family to the event wearing your company t-shirts…. Hand out business cards, fliers, pens or pencils with your company name and number on them.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Start using free publicity – get into the habit of writing and submitting monthly press releases.</span><br /><br />Nearly every tip I have given you above lends itself to getting free publicity! EVERY time your company does something “Newsworthy” you should be firing off a press release.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">When people see your name in the newspaper or on the local news for being involved with something that benefits the community, you are automatically seen as the expert, and it WILL pay off big time in the growth of your business.</span><br /><br />Again, I give lots of detailed examples and templates inside Painting for Profits!</li></ol><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Any of the proven tips I’ve shared with you will boost Good Will and profits for your business!</span><br /><br />If you would like to have a step-by-step blueprint for applying these strategies (and MANY others) you should get your hands on a copy of Painting for Profits RIGHT NOW.<br /><br />Why RIGHT NOW?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Because for the next couple weeks, I am doing a price test to see if I am able to help more people grow their painting businesses... </span><br /><br />I have been making Painting for Profits available for nearly six years now <span style="font-style: italic;">(updating it yearly to make sure it always contained the most cutting edge tips, techniques and strategies working in the field right now)</span>.<br /><br /><u>We have thousands of customers who have happily paid $197 and the program enjoys a 97%+ customer satisfaction rate</u>.<br /><br />MANY hundreds of people have sent in testimonials and success stories about how P4P has helped them save time, avoid the frustration of trial and error and most importantly make more money for their family.<br /><br />In fact, many customers have gone on to become private consulting clients or 1-800-PRO-PAINTER licensees, so the systems I teach really do work!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BUT…</span> with that said, times have changed, and $197 may be too much of a stretch for a lot of well meaning painting contractors.<br /><blockquote>I made a commitment six years ago to help improve the painting trade and industry and help as many painters as I could, so in my effort to continue to do that, I’m going to do a price test and see what happens.</blockquote><span style="font-weight: bold;">For the next couple weeks, you get the complete Painting for Profits system, including the complete Bid to Win Estimating system, for just $97… no catches<span style="font-style: italic;">! (That’s a savings of $100 off what countless others have invested!)</span></span><br /><br />If you would like to receive the program on a printable CD-ROM it’s just $97 with Free Shipping<br />Click Here to check it out: <a href="http://www.startapaintingbusiness.com/">www.StartAPaintingBusiness.com</a><br /><br />I look forward to helping your painting business thrive in this tough economy!<br /><br />Andy<br /><br />P.S. P4P still comes with my unconditional, no questions asked Money Back Guarantee, so if you are not thrilled with the content or the increase in business you experience, simply return the CD-ROM and I will process a fast and friendly refund of the purchase price!<br /><br />You have nothing to lose for giving it a try because the tips, techniques and strategies may be just the thing that helps you keep your business moving in the right direction.Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-90925599599304293112010-11-10T08:44:00.012-05:002010-11-10T17:57:14.640-05:00What Are You Thankful for in Your Painting Business...November means 'Goal Setting Time' for me and my businesses... It's also a time for reflection and Thanksgiving, for all the success we have achieved and all of the struggles we have overcome.<br /><br />2010 has been a tough year for just about everyone I've talked to (Including myself) but there is no sense dwelling on that...<br /><br />Here are a few important things I am Grateful for: (<span style="font-style: italic;">Please post a comment and share your stories of success and gratitude</span>.)<br /><br /><ul><li>First and foremost I am thankful for my loving and supportive family. My wife Janelle for how hard she works in our businesses and my sweet daughter Myla for being such a 'go with the flow' kid!<br /><br /></li><li>I am thankful for all of my employees for delivering the BEST customer service and support to our customers.<br /><br /></li><li>I am thankful for the hundreds of painting business owners who trusted me enough to invest in Painting for Profits and help them grow their painting businesses.<br /><br /></li><li>I am thankful for my improving health and fitness level (P-90X Kicks Butt!)<br /><br /></li><li>I am thankful for the wonderfully successful launch of the (NEW) <a href="http://www.1800propainteradvantage.com/">1-800-PRO-PAINTER Advantage</a> and how quickly it is becoming a TOP nationally recognized brand in the residential painting market.<br /><br /></li><li>I am thankful for all of the lessons I have learned and all of the setbacks I've been able to overcome.<br /><br /></li><li>I am thankful for all of the Goals and Plans we have in place for 2011 that will allow us to grow our businesses, build stronger relationships and help even more painting business owners reach their goals.<br /><br /></li><li>I am excited about how AWESOME the Updated and Expanded 2011 Edition of <a href="http://www.paintingforprofits.com/">Painting for Profits</a> has turned out, and I am especially thankful for all the hard work, time, energy and effort my team put into getting it ready!</li></ul>That is just a short list off the top of my head. The cool thing about doing this exercise, is once I started typing "I am thankful" it made me FEEL GOOD... so good in fact, I could sit here all day thinking of things to be grateful for but its time to get back to work ;-)<br /><br />Okay, I have time for one more... <span style="font-weight: bold;">I am thankful for YOU! </span><br /><br />Please leave a comment and share what you are thankful for this year and what you are excited about for 2011.<br /><br /><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> 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name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]-->Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-60869947251527305372010-01-13T10:52:00.004-05:002010-01-13T11:39:03.933-05:00Painting Business Card TipsI just picked up my first batch of painting business cards for 2010 and I'm really happy with them...<br /><br />As many of you know I am in a growth stage of my painting business (despite the <em>dreadful</em> Michigan economy)<br /><br />Economists say the recession is over and the economy is on the mend, so right now is the best time to lay the foundation and position ourselves to gain market share.<br /><br /><div align="center"><strong>Here are 5 things to keep in mind when you begin to<br />design your painting business card</strong></div><br /><ol><li>First impressions are crucial, so be sure your painting business card is not too cluttered.<br /><br />Keep it easy to read and don't use too many graphics... It's okay to include your logo but try to stay away from using graphics for the sake of filling up space.<br /><br /></li><li>Keep the look and feel of your painting business card consistent with the rest of your marketing materials.<br /><br />Use the same font, colors, etc., doing so will help create a consisten look, which is important to making your painting business brand memorable.<br /><br /></li><li>Include a slogan or tag line that is catchy and describes your business. Keep it short and make it benefit rich...<br /><br /></li><li>DO NOT waste the space on the back of your painting business card by printing calendars, sports schedules or anything else that will be obsolete some time down the road.<br /><br />Use that important space to MAKE A BENEFIT RICH OFFER! For the love of GOD, GIVE PEOPLE A REASON TO CALL YOU!<br /><br />An offer that works GREAT for a lot of my clients is (And this is a HUGE tip, I'm giving you FREE of charge) "Get A FREE Paint - Paint Job" CALL NOW!<br /><br /><em>You will have to come up with your own specifics for that offer</em>.<br /><br /></li><li>Be sure to include your web site address and email address.<br /><br />Think about running a contest on your web site and using the back of your painting business card to promote it.<br /></li></ol><p>Okay, these five tips should help you make your painting business card much more powerful. </p><p><strong>In fact it will turn an ordinary painting business card into a Powerful lead generating BENEFIT card.</strong></p><p>Have a great day!</p>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-53424349875271373832009-11-19T10:00:00.006-05:002009-12-10T11:21:51.877-05:00Stress Reduction for Painting Business Owners... Spend More Time In The Big Picture!<div>End of the year and winter is just around the corner... These are stressful times for a lot of painting contractors. Questions like:<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>Did I make enough money over the busy season to make it through the holiday slowdown?<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>Will the phone ring enough this winter to keep my head above water?<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>Will the economy in 2010 be better than 2009...<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>While no one has a crystal ball, there are signs that the economy is starting to rebound and the housing market is beginning to turn around, but who knows?<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>The only thing we can do is keep a good attitude, make new and better plans based on the feedback from the year before, take more "consistent" action and see how things turn out.<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>For my organization (personally) 2010 is going to be about GROWTH! We have made plans to better our best in every area of our business, both online and locally.<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>We are reinventing ourselves... Being more creative with our marketing... giving more back... improving our brand and image... because 2010 is a "Positioning" year.<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>Throughout history, those who built the best businesses and amassed the greatest wealth were those who were able to position themselves to capitalize on a recovering economy.<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>It's time to MAKE NEW PLANS... BIG BOLD, throw caution to the wind, and bite off more than you can chew plans! </div><div> </div><br /><div>In early 2010 we will be introducing a new Hybrid Marketing Concept to the national painting market. My team and I have spent thousands of hours developing and refining this NEW cutting edge program, and it's going to improve the lives and businesses of painting contractors all over North America. (More on that to come...)<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>My point in this blog post is simple... The day-to-day "struggles" can be a grind. The tough lessons that are learned when you reach for more and dare to dream, can kick your ass to the point that you don't feel like going on.<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>That's why I'm reminding you to "Spend More Time In The Big Picture." Define who you ultimately want to be... How respected and profitable you want your painting business to become... How much more you want to give back to your community and family...<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>Imagine what 2010 could be like if you just went for your dreams... </div><div> </div><br /><div>My personal mantra for 2010 is "Going ALL IN!" I'm betting on myself and I'm biting off more than I can chew, because in the end, what the hell is the point of living in fear all the time.<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>If you are reading this and are serious about the house painting profession, and are ready to lay it all on the line, "Go ALL IN" we are with you every step of the way!<br /></div><div> </div><br /><div>Over the next few weeks (through the rest of 2009) we'll be posing updates on this blog, about the projects we are finishing up (for YOU) that will give you 99% of what you will need to turn your vision into reality. You will have to supply the 1% action, but you will have access to the best tools, advice and ideas and information to help you achieve your success much, much easier.</div><div> </div><br /><div>Start prepairing your mind right now for bigger, better things for your life and business in 2010... Go ALL IN, bet on yourself and know that, we got your back!</div>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-88811397645798815092009-11-12T11:52:00.002-05:002009-11-12T12:08:24.680-05:00Painting Business Owners Who Deliver Added Value Can Sell At Higher Prices...Added Value... what does that mean exactly? <br /><br />Well, added value can be anything that is included in the price of the paint job, that is perceived by the homeowner as an "Above and Beyond" benefit.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For example</span>:<br /><br />Three different painting contractors could bid a job at $3,500 and provide the same quality finished paint job, however one of them may also include, window washing, or free touch-up service, or two free gallons of paint... as an added benefit.<br /><br />Added value is a great way to set your painting business apart from your competitors, but remember, you must be able to communicate that added value to the homeowner. <br /><br />A great way to do this is to create an "Added Value" flier that you include in your estimate package. It should outline what your painting company does different or better then everyone else AND how the homeowner will benefit from it!<br /><br />In this new economy, it is more important then ever to be able to differentiate yourself from all the other painting business in your market. What you offer as added value makes your company unique and more desirable to your prospects.<br /><br />Sit down right now and brainstorm ways you can "Add Value" and improve the customer experience. <br /><br />Hope this helps!Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-10113934363226708492009-10-23T08:36:00.005-04:002009-10-23T13:43:19.513-04:00Have You Ever Made This Mistake In Your Painting Buiness? Here's The Solution.I have this book of quotes that I read every morning when I wake up... I just pick it up, close my eyes and open it up to a page and read the quote.<br /><br />Well, for the last three days in a row, I have opened the book to the exact same quote so I figure there is something I need to learn from it. It says:<br /><br />"<span style="font-style: italic;">The world makes way for a man (or woman) who knows where he (or she) is going</span>"<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">-Ralph Waldo Emerson</span><br /><br />You see, things haven't exactly been going as planned lately. Many of our new projects are WAY behind schedule and seem to be at a standstill... When people make promises and don't follow through on their word, it reflects poorly on the business owner.<br /><br />I sent out my newsletter a few weeks ago asking folks to take a survey in exchange for a free trial subscription in our new membership web site that I was expecting to be ready to launch in October.<br /><br />Well here we are almost in the last week of October and, you guessed it, it's not ready yet.<br /><br />So what do I do? I guess the only thing I can do is look for the lesson and learn from it.<br /><br />After all, my goals of providing the best, most up to date information & resources for growing a painting business, haven't changed... I still know where my business is going and like Emerson said, the world will make way for me to do that.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">However the lesson I've learned and want to pass on here is simple</span>.<br /><br />Try not to promise more than you can deliver. ALWAYS under promise and OVER DELIVER.<br /><br />I have met a lot of "fly by the seat of your pants" business owners, who talk a good game and will say YES to every question a customer asks (even if they know nothing about the skill needed to deliver the result).<br /><br />They figure, "I'll land the job and figure it out as I go..." But the problem with that approach is that most of the time, in the end, it's the customer who suffers most.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Save yourself the aggravation and never refer anyone based on what they say they can do</span>...<br /><br />Make them prove to you that they can deliver the goods, because after all if you vouch for someone and they don't deliver, it is going to reflect poorly on YOU!<br /><br />The membership site (and all of the other projects) IS going to launch and it is going to be AMAZING, but it is going to be a few more weeks until it goes live and for that, I apologize.<br /><br />As of right now I'm still waiting for a progress report and time line.<br /><br />I'll be sure to post updates as soon as I know more.Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-24351418595705789992009-10-21T15:55:00.002-04:002009-10-21T16:05:17.934-04:00FREE Copy of Think and Grow Rich! Here's HowHey everyone, I'm <span style="font-weight: bold;">REALLY EXCITED</span> about this!<br /><br />I want to send you a FREE copy of my favorite book of all times - "<span style="font-style: italic;">Think and Grow Rich</span>"<br /><br />Did you know that It's Already Created a Million Millionaires!<br /><br />...<span style="font-weight: bold;">And I want YOU to have a copy for FREE</span>!<br /><br />Get Your Free Copy of Think and Grow Rich<br /><a href="http://www.freetgrbook.com/PaintingForProfits">www.FreeTGRbook.com</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Just tell us where to send it, and we'll get it right out in the mail to you today</span>.<br /><br />My friends Vic and Lisa Johnson are doing this crazy marketing<br />test where they're giving away Napoleon Hill's "Think & Grow Rich."<br /><br />I'm helping them with their big giveaway and wanted to make sure<br />you got your copy before they take this offer down.<br /><br />Get the details here:<br /><a href="http://www.freetgrbook.com/PaintingForProfits">www.FreeTGRbook.com</a><br /><br />Feel free to pass this on to friends. They can get one too if they<br />act right away.<br /><br />This is one of my favorite books. I know you'll love it!<br /><br />Andy ThompsonAndy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-19529370209685544132009-10-19T11:45:00.007-04:002009-10-19T14:14:04.856-04:00(NEW) Painting DVD Teaches This Old Dog New Tricks!Start-up painting business owners who want to develop better house painting skills and a more fluid understanding of the process for achieving a professional quality paint job, will benefit greatly from Dan Brady's new DVD - "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn How To Paint A Room Like A Pro</span>".<br /><br />A few weeks ago I saw a press release come across my desk about a new DVD that outlined the skills & insider tricks of the trade, for painting a room like a professional...<br /><br />Anyone who knows me, knows that I get really fired up when I see painting contractors use the "Power of the PRESS" to promote their business... so I did what I always do, I sent Dan an email congratulating him.<br /><br />I had the privilege of speaking on the phone to Dan - Owner of Dan Brady Painting and Wood Restoration, in Travers City, Michigan.<br /><br />I told him that from time to time, I have new start up painting business owners contact me asking for tips and tricks to improve their painting skills, and that some the people on my newsletter list may be interested in his new DVD.<br /><br />However before I could promote it, I had to make sure it passed muster and a few days later my copy showed up in the mail.<br /><br />First impression, I was very impressed! Not just with the depth of information but how professionally it was presented and recorded...<br /><br />This is Dan's first installment to his "<span style="font-style: italic;">Tricks of The Trade Painting Videos</span>" series and if his follow up <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">DVD's</span> are anything like the first, this information rich library is sure to become a genuine asset to the painting industry.<br /><br />In fact, I was one of those people who liked to say "there isn't much anyone could teach me about the skills or process of painting..." (<span style="font-style: italic;">because I've been painting all of my adult life</span>) but <span style="font-weight: bold;">I'm not ashamed to say I learned a few valuable insights that will save me a lot of time and improve my production process, greatly</span>.<br /><br />...Which in the end helps to improve my clients overall experience, and that's what it's all about!<br /><br />Although the DVD is geared toward teaching the "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">DIYer</span>", it will also help the small business owner who specializes in targeting interior residential repaints by helping them:<br /><br /><ul><li>Streamline the process and reduce the time it takes to paint a room<br /></li><li>Improve the overall quality of the finished product</li><li>Improve their overall client experience</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Less time to produce the job + a better looking finished product = lots of happy, satisfied customers and more money in your bank account!</span><br /><br />The way I see it, if this DVD helps you reduce your production time by just 30 minutes per job (<span style="font-style: italic;">because it helped you streamline your production process</span>) it is worth a thousand times the $24.95 asking price.<br /><br />We are happy to give Dan Brady and the "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn How To Paint A Room Like A Pro</span>" DVD our highest recommendation.<br /><br />To learn more about Dan Brady and see a sample of the DVD head over to: <a href="http://www.danbradypaintingtricks.com/">www.danbradypaintingtricks.com</a>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-31901562063901580712009-10-19T09:53:00.004-04:002009-10-19T10:11:51.740-04:00Perk Up Your Painting Business With PrizesHey, everyone loves the chance to win something and as far as I can tell no one else is doing anything like this...<br /><br />One of the ways we are going to make our estimates stand out in 2010 is to create a "Lucky Envelope" that we give to each prospect along with our written estimate. We are kicking around a few ideas for what should go in the "Lucky Envelope" to help us make a better impression on our potential clients.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here are a few ideas we are considering</span>...<br /><ol><li>A scratch off lottery ticket</li><li>A coupon for a buy one get one free meal at a local restaurant we have a relationship with.</li><li>A chance to win their paint job for free contest offer</li><li>A free car wash or movie ticket</li></ol>Brainstorm some things you can use to make your painting business stand out.<br /><br />Success in this new economy, takes creative thinking. <br /><br />Do your best to make the experience more fun and exciting for the home owner and watch your sales improve.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Remember</span> - <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sales is service</span>! <br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The last thing you want to do is look and sound like every other painting contractor in town</span>.<br /><br />We are about two weeks from launching our (NEW) Subscribers Only Membership web site, where we will share detailed information about how to put together these fun creative (money making) ideas to work.<br /><br />The monthly membership fee will be less than a cup of Starbucks coffee and scone, especially for our first 100 charter members.<br /><br />We'll be posing a blog announcement with a link to the new web site very soon, so be sure to bookmark this blog and check back often!Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-30755034774867312872009-10-13T12:36:00.005-04:002009-10-14T12:13:00.907-04:00Painting Business Marketing Promotion for Halloween!Halloween offers a great opportunity to market your painting business in a FUN and CREATIVE way!<br /><br />In fact, Halloween is one of the ONLY days throughout the year that people will answer their door when you knock...<br /><br />Here are some creative ideas to consider:<br /><br />One: If you have children that you will be taking out trick-or-treating, consider dressing them up as a painter... They could carry a brush in one hand and collect candy with a cut bucket (decorated in a spooky Halloween theme) in the other hand.<br /><br />You could ware your company polo or t-shirt and be the "crew leader" or "Project Manager".<br /><br />Once the home owner puts the treat in your child's bucket you could hand them a treat of your own, in the form of a coupon/flier for a paint job promotion or you could just say a simple 5-10 second "lift speech" about your business.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Something simple like this:</span><br /><br />Hi neighbor,<br /><br />"We're the (Last Name) family and we own the local (Your Paint Biz Name), and we thought it would be nice to get out and meet our neighbors... We have a special Halloween treat for you. (<span style="font-style: italic;">Hand them your treat, which could be a simple bite size candy bar with your business card glued on it</span>.)<br /><br />Keep an eye out for our signs throughout the neighborhood and remember if you or anyone you know needs painting, happily tell them to call (YOUR PAINT BIZ), Happy Halloween!"<br /><br />Simple! Memorable! NEWS WORTHY!!!<br /><br />Let us know how it works for you!Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-83028865488285832612009-10-10T12:31:00.003-04:002009-10-13T12:36:43.862-04:00Running Your Own Painting Business Requires Personal Accountability<div class="entry"> <p>You never really understand how easy you’ve had it painting (or working) for someone else until you venture out on your own…</p> <p>Don’t get me wrong, the benefits of owning your own painting business far out-weigh the effort you will put in to build it.</p> <p>The first and most important step to becoming a successful self employed business owner is to become <strong>accountable to your self</strong>. When you make the decision to start a painting business you gave up the “check your brain at the door” mindset and become the sole judge and jury.</p> <p>That is a good thing… When you hold yourself accountable and set a higher standard then anyone else does, things start to take shape quickly.</p> <p>Here is a short list of what are considered ‘Top Priority’ when you become the person in charge of the success of your painting business</p> <ol><li><strong>Mindset</strong> – What you think about matters (A LOT)! Develop a ‘can do’ mindset and stop wasting time on things that are beyond your control.There are hundreds of great books and courses on how to develop the proper mindset. Reading five to ten minutes a day right when you wake up in the morning will condition your mind for success and keep you moving in the right direction.<br /><br /></li><li><strong>Goal Setting</strong> – Knowing where you’re going and how you’re going to get there requires thought and an organized plan of action.The first step is to begin by creating your ideal painting business on paper… Think about every aspect as you want it to be once everything is said and done. Don’t make the mistake and only set financial goals. The money you make will be a bi-product of setting specific and reachable goals.<br /><br /></li><li><strong>Consistent Action</strong> – As painters we love the instant gratification that our profession offers, but things don’t always happen as fast as we would like when just getting started.</li></ol> <p>Keep in mind that building a successful long term painting business is accomplished through a series of stepping stones that are continually repeated and refined until they produce the desired results.</p> <p>Marketing for example, is an ongoing process not a one time event…</p> <p>You market to make your phone ring… Next you bid the paint job and write the estimate… Then you produce a quality finished paint job… Finally you follow up to attract more business… Then rinse and repeat!</p> <p>When you hold yourself accountable to these three simple stepping stones –</p> <ol><li>Create the proper mindset</li><li>Set ambitious yet reachable goals</li><li>Take consistent action</li></ol> <p>You will defiantly be moving your painting business in the right direction.</p> </div>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-92124985237308709022009-10-10T11:27:00.008-04:002009-10-10T12:24:52.196-04:00The 2 Biggest Problems With Buying Your Painting Business Signs from a "General" Sign ShopJust like buying printed advertising in the phone book, "sign shop" salesmen are out to sell you their products. (not necessary what you need)<br /><br />If you have ever sat down with a phone book advertising rep you know what I'm talking about. They have their sales pitch and the product line that makes their company the most profits...<br /><br />They will do their dog and pony show (which is usually very good) and try and convince you to purchase "what they're selling" rather than what is best for you.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">General sign shops are no different</span>... They have a sign for seemingly every business and event including, campaigns, open houses, For sale by owner, etc. and they will show you example after example of "<span style="font-style: italic;">What Everyone Else Is Using</span>."<br /><br />As you may or may not know, when it comes to marketing your painting business, doing what everyone else is doing... DOESN'T WORK!<br /><br />So you try to reason with them and tell them exactly what you are looking for:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A simple, clean look with a clear message, a benefit and strong call to action</span>... (<span style="font-style: italic;">Because those are the PROVEN steps to creating a POWERFUL lead generating marketing tool</span>)<br /><br />...And then the sign shop sales person will try to tell you that "<span style="font-style: italic;">It's to plain</span>" or "<span style="font-style: italic;">it's not flashy enough</span>" and "<span style="font-style: italic;">Why don't you include a second or third color</span>" or "<span style="font-style: italic;">Different fonts</span>"<br /><br />SELL...SELL...SELL<br /><br />You see, sign shop sales people are just that, "sales people"... They are NOT painting business owners and certainly NOT marketers. <br /><br />They don't give a rats a$$ if your signs generate any leads, they only care about selling you signs and making a commission!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">That's problem #1</span>- General sign shop people are NOT painting business owners OR marketers!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Problem #2 is</span>: Most general sign shops do not sell in small quantities (without charging a huge premium).<br /><br />Sure you can get yard signs for around $2-$3 each but you have to buy them in lots of 250-500! Which is great if you have the budget, however the signs they sell at those prices are weather proof, poster board, which don't last very long. (they are disposable)<br /><br />Seriously, call up some general sign shops and ask them to print you a short run (Under 50 signs) printed front and back and see what they say... 9 times out of 10 you will hear:<br /><br /><ol><li>Sorry we don't print orders that small... or<br /></li><li>Sure we can do that for you, but because it's such a small run they will be $17-$20 each.</li></ol>Until now we painting business owners have been at the mercy of "sales people" and I'm not standing for it any longer, so here is what I've decided to do about it...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">In November we will be launching a new web site that will offer short run sign and apparel packages, specifically designed for painting business owners, by painting business owners</span>!<br /><br />I'll post more details as the time draws near. The packages will include Yard Signs, Intersection Signs, Pole/Association Signs, Short Sleeve T-Shirts, Long Sleeve T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, etc.<br /><br />The layouts are simple, clean and deliver a clear message, a major benefit and a strong call to action... <span style="font-weight: bold;">In short these are serious PROVEN lead generating MARKETING TOOLS</span>! <br /><br />Because we are keeping our product line focused on a specific niche in the market (Painting Contractors Only) we are able to produce short run packages at extremely low prices without sacrificing quality or customer service.<br /><br />If you would like to be notified when we launch, please leave a comment on this post and be sure to include your email address so we can contact you.<br /><br />Remember: No other form of marketing or advertising can deliver a better ROI (Return On Investment) than signs!<br /><br />P.S. <span style="font-weight: bold;">We will also be offering custom cut to fit vinyl vehicle graphics</span>!Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-17577059642905252092009-10-09T10:42:00.005-04:002009-10-09T14:07:16.790-04:00Hey Painting Business Owners - I Dare You to GIVE More!It's not too often but some days I wake up feeling like S!@#...<br /><br />Not for any one reason in particular, but because I feel like I've been working so hard to deliver good quality usable content that helps painting business owners make more money... work less hours... and have more fun and fulfillment running their business...<br /><br />And I wish I had time to do more or that things would happen faster then they are!<br /><br />Today started out that way, until I got into the office this morning and waiting there on my desk was a press release about a painting contractor in Chicago, who despite the set-backs the recession has brought to his business... <span style="font-weight: bold;">He is still giving back</span>!<br /><br />What an inspiration! I have never met this man before but I jumped right on the phone and fired off a call to him to say thank you.<br /><br />The article talked about <span style="font-weight: bold;">INTEGRITY</span> and how <span style="font-weight: bold;">it is defined by what we do when no one else is looking</span>.<br /><br />It talked about how rare it is to see acts of generosity during times when the giver most likely wouldn't get something back in return.<br /><br />The article reminded me exactly why I write this blog and send out our "Painting Contractors Perspective" Newsletter...<br /><br />I understand that this winter/holiday season is going to be tough for a lot of painting business owners and I want to make sure every independent painting contractor makes it through.<br /><br />That's why I've been giving away so many proven tips and usable content...<br /><br />In fact, just last month alone we had hundreds of painters email us questions and letters of appreciation for the work we have been doing.<br /><br />Is it enough? We don't think so. Not by a long shot...<br /><br />T<span style="font-style: italic;">hat's why we are re-doubling our efforts during this last quarter of 2009</span> to insure that we can help as many people as possible BLAZE into 2010 focused and ready to reach their goals!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">So here is my challenge to YOU</span>... <span style="font-style: italic;">I Dare You to GIVE More</span>... <span style="font-style: italic;">to your customers</span>... <span style="font-style: italic;">to your family</span>... <span style="font-style: italic;">to YOURSELF</span>!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NOW is the time to dig in and put forth the extra effort</span>... keep pushing forward... keep improving your attitude and mind set... crystallize your vision and belief to achieve it!<br /><br />Remember, you are not alone, because we are with you every step of the way! Send in your questions... Tell us your story... and work every day to better your best!Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-70908481147670628872009-10-07T09:11:00.004-04:002009-10-09T14:13:33.994-04:00Frustrated With Your Painting Business? Here's the SolutionWe get a lot of emails from painters saying they are frustrated with:<br /><br /><ul><li>The economy<br /></li><li>Competition</li><li>Not having enough time</li><li>Lazy employees</li><li>The price of materials<br /></li><li>Paying for expensive advertising</li><li>low or no call volume from their ads</li><li>low ball painters driving prices down...</li><li>FILL IN THE BLANK!</li></ul>...And in my mind I say to them "welcome to business ownership"<br /><br />Owning a painting business (or any business for that matter) comes with frustrations and set backs, there is no way around it.<br /><br />Heck, even working a job has it's own set of frustrations, as well as massive limitations. Where as being self employed, holds all potential!<br /><br />Today I want to pass on the BEST advice anyone has ever given me about how to combat the frustration of being an entrepreneur, are you ready?<br /><br />Here it is... "<span style="font-weight: bold;">Fall In Love With The Process</span>" <br /><br />Those six little words had such a profound impact on my life, and I hope they will for you as well.<br /><br />It's important to realize that each day is going to have it's challenges AND it's victories!<br /><br />The best way I have found to "Fall in love with the process" is by asking good questions when challenges arise, like:<br /><br />- What is the best solution to this problem?<br />- How can we resolve this problem so next time it isn't such an issue?<br />- Who can I call or email for advice about how to overcome this challenge?<br /><br />And when victories happen... really be grateful and celebrate them, no matter how small they may seem.<br /><br />Success doesn't happen over night, it happens over time, and the path you take to get there is going to be as frustrating or as fun as you decide it to be.<br /><br />When we decided to create and publish Painting for Profits and make it available to the public I wanted to make sure that we offered support after the sale. In fact the "support" was (in my opinion) the most important benefit included in the system.<br /><br />Having caring people around you that you can ask questions to when you are feeling frustrated, is priceless. Being able to ask questions of people who "have been there" and "done that" goes a long way in curing frustration.<br /><br />That's what we offer to all of our clients when they invest in our programs.<br /><br />...And if you ask me, that is why so many people have such wonderful success with <a href="http://www.startapaintingbusiness.com/">Painting for Profits</a>!Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-87618195824843102282009-10-06T10:50:00.005-04:002009-10-06T11:35:46.515-04:00ATTENTION Painting Business Owners: Cute & Fancy Yard Signs Do Not Sell!Walking around the neighborhood the other day I saw a few yard signs for various home improvement business... (Roofer, Gutter and siding and a small builder)<br /><br />Each of these three signs had the businesses logo, multiple colors and different fonts. They were very cute and fancy which would be great if "Cute & Fancy" sold... but it doesn't!<br /><br />Sure it may look cool and there is no doubt that it costs more to have signs made using multiple colors and different fonts, but in the long run those cute and fancy embellishments REDUCE call response.<br /><br />The purpose of using signs to market your business is to get people to call you, right? They are suppose to be lead generators, NOT EGO BOOSTERS, for the business owner.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here is a PROVEN simple, straight forward sign layout formula, that will increase the call response from your signs.</span><br /><br /><ol><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Keep a clean look and feel</span> - Use ONE color background and ONE color for the text and ONE font. Simple? yes... Beautiful? Not really... Effective? EXTREMELY!<br /><br /> </li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Deliver a CLEAR Message</span> - You should think of your signs as a small direct response ad! Only include the important information which is, the name of your business, your contact phone number, a benefit and a strong call to action.</li></ol>Here is tried and true - proven - call generating yard sign copy:<br /><br />Let's say you use a standard 18 x 24 white corrugated plastic sign printed with black ink...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Another Quality Paint Job By</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">YOUR PAINTING BUSINESS<br /></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">(123) 456.7890</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Free Estimates - CALL NOW</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This simple yard sign laid out and copy will pull better than a three color, three font, yard sign that costs three times as much. <br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Does it look as nice? No... However it has been proven countless times to generate 2-3 times the amount of calls!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Two VERY important things I have to mention</span>:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">First</span> - Your contact phone number needs to be the largest and most visual feature on the sign...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Second</span> - Your phone number needs to be NO SMALLER than 3" in order to be read by passing cars. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">REMEMBER</span>:<br /><br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Signs are a marketing tool for lead generation</span> - NOT ego boosters...</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Keep a nice clean look and feel</span> (One color background, One color text, One font)</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Simple clear message</span> (Phone number as the largest feature and a strong call to action)</li></ul>There you go... You now have a winning formula for yard sign marketing! Let me know how it works out for you...</div></div>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-74982609699012677242009-10-05T09:46:00.005-04:002009-10-05T10:36:40.206-04:00October Is Here - It's GOAL Setting Time for Painting ContractorsHere in Michigan fall has blown in... The leaves are beginning to change and there is a definite chill in the air. Yep, Summer is over and the holidays are just around the corner.<br /><br />For many painting contractors, it's goal setting season! It's time to look back over the year and evaluate what went right and what needs improvement.<br /><br />Some of you may be saying, hold on a second it's only October, we still have to get through the winter months before worrying about next years goals...<br /><br />I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but if you haven't made your plans for the end of the season yet, you are a bit behind the curve. <br /><br />You see, as business owners we need to think (and plan) ahead... If you wait until January 1st to set goals for the New Year, you don't have any time to create momentum.<br /><br />Setting goals for the next year in October, November and December allow you to know what actions you are going to take to kick off the new year "in stride".<br /><br />Right now is the best time to decide how next year will be different than this year.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">For example</span>: If you spent much of this year complaining about the economy or competition then you should begin to think of more creative ways to overcome those problems next year.<br /><br />Here are some areas to think about, that can make 2010 much more profitable and a lot less stressful then 2009...<br /><ul><li>Stop using excuses - Focus on positive things that are within your control and stop worrying about stuff you can't control.<br /><br /></li><li>Put your plan in writing - It's not good enough to have your goals in your head, they MUST be written down on paper and read daily.<br /><br /></li><li>Double your marketing efforts - Hand out more business cards, flier more neighborhoods, Send out more post cards, write more press releases...<br /><br /></li><li>Start a monthly newsletter - This is a great way to keep your painting business in front of past customers.<br /><br /></li><li>Design seasonal promotions - Create them and have them ready to go so all you have to do is send them out when the time rolls around.<br /><br /></li><li>Fine tune your referral program - Create or rethink your referral program... Work with a local restaurant owner on a 2-for-1 offer...<br /><br /></li><li>Improve your customer experience - Brainstorm ways to give more value to your customers.<br /><br /></li><li>Raise your rates 10% - This is the fastest way to increase revenue immediately!<br /><br /></li><li>Put a shine on your brand and image - Put new vinyl graphics on your vehicle... work with us to develop nice clean looking signs and t-shirts... Incorporate that clean look and feel on all of your written corespondents.<br /><br /></li><li>Invest in (or improve) your web site - Add an email collection box or audio interview<br /><br /></li><li>Redesign your business card (put an offer on the back) - Put a "New Customer" discount offer on the back of the business card.<br /><br /></li><li>Spend some time doing competition research - Find out what other painting contractors are doing and emulate or improve on their strategies. <br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">EVERY painting business needs improvement</span> (<span style="font-style: italic;">including mine</span>) that's why goal setting is so important. <br /><br />We have a ton of improvements to implement in our local painting business as well as our online and consulting business... 2010's focus is on GROWTH and expansion!<br /><br />Knowing what those plans are NOW, before the New Year starts will help ensure that we are moving in the right direction and building momentum for 2010.<br /><br />Tell us what goals you're going to set, that will help make 2010 your best year ever? Leave us a comment.Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-25136049689552162612009-10-02T12:18:00.008-04:002009-10-02T13:05:34.107-04:007 Simple Steps for Painting Business SuccessToday we are going to outline Seven simple steps to focus on that will help you avoid a lot of the pitfalls of growing your painting business.<br /><br />It should go without saying that to grow a painting business takes effort, however when you focus your effort on the right tasks, you will be able to reach your goals much quicker.<br /><br />After years of showing thousands of painters how to start and grow their business, these 7 simple steps have proven to be the most effective:<br /><br /><ol><li>In order to become successful (long term) it's important to <span style="font-weight: bold;">become a student of business</span>. Start by finding good sources of information and advice (Like this blog) that can help you better understand the "business side" of the painting business. (Marketing, bidding & Estimating, Customer Service, Employee Management, etc)<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Create your business on paper first and develop simple structured systems for each core component</span>. (Most new business owners skip this part) there are posts on this blog that detail exactly how to do this...<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Create the proper mindset for success</span> - (Stay away from negative minded people) begin to associate yourself with people who are positive, empowering and moving in the same direction you want to go. Read books that encourage creativity and motivate you to get better and better.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Always provide your customers with more value and better service than they expect </span>- strive to exceed their expectations... go above and beyond... <span style="font-style: italic;">be a Customer Service Oriented business first and foremost</span>.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Deliver a consistent, quality finished product </span>- Regardless if you do the painting yourself or hire others to do it, be sure to always inspect the finished job with the client and get their stamp of approval. If there were holidays or something was missed, fix it right away.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Take consistent daily action</span> - always be looking for ways to get involved with your community or partner with other local business... that way you can alert the local media and get a lot of free publicity for your business.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Follow up with EVERYONE</span> - that means not only your past customers, but also the clients you did estimates for but didn't land the job... Followup is the key to building a successful long term business.</li></ol>Be sure to bookmark this blog and sign up for the RSS feed to be notified every time we up date.<br /><br />Leave a comment below and let us know how we're doing...Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-42855737024331474032009-09-30T11:46:00.004-04:002009-09-30T12:06:39.189-04:00Painting Business Success: Do You BELIEVE You Can Succeed?Success is a state of mind... Do you believe that statement? <br /><br />Do you believe you are worthy of success? <br /><br />Do you believe you have what it takes to succeed?<br /><br />Do you believe that the economy or competition can hold you back from success?<br /><br />...I could go on all day asking questions about your belief system, but the point I'm trying to make is, <span style="font-weight: bold;">the level of success you ultimately gain comes down to what you believe you can achieve</span>.<br /><br />Am I full of crap or do you agree with me? <br /><br />Leave a comment and let me know.Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-15338516571998160692009-09-23T09:28:00.005-04:002009-09-23T12:39:23.172-04:00Selling Paint Jobs is About Confidence NOT CompetitionThe two most powerful ways to quickly increase your confidence level and skyrocket your profits are:<br /><br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Knowledge</span> - The most successful painting business owners ALWAYS KEEP LEARNING.</li></ul>Confusion stifles confidence and causes inaction, which leads to stress, frustration and failure.<br /><br />Hands down, the fastest way to gain the level of success you desire is to '<span style="font-style: italic;">learn from other peoples success.</span>'<br /><br />Begin to associate yourself with folks who are doing or have already done what you are trying to do.<br /><br />Find out what goals they set... what actions they're taking... what books they're reading... what courses they're studying... what knowledge they're gaining!<br /><br />KNOWLEDGE builds confidence, and confidence (not cockiness) sells painting services...<br /><br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Systems</span> - The most successful painting business owners always develop systems.</li></ul>To some people the word '<span style="font-style: italic;">systems</span>' can be frightening... The first thing to understand about creating systems for your business is that, they don't have to be complicated or confusing.<br /><br />In fact, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">KISS</span> philosophy (Keep It Simple Stupid) is a good way to describe how to develop systems for your business.<br /><br />However, an even better and more accurate way to describe it (KISS) would be <span style="font-weight: bold;">Keep It Simply Structured</span>.<br /><br />You will gain ultimate confidence once you have simple structured systems for each core component of your painting business!<br /><br />Here is a link to an article I posted on our '<a href="http://howtobidpaintjobs.com/blog/">how to bid paint jobs blog</a>' the other day...<br /><br />It outlines a simple system for the "<span style="font-style: italic;">Client Call-in script" </span> and it streamlines the process of gathering the most important information every time someone calls you for an estimate.<br /><br />The main idea behind systems, is to create a simple structure so that each task is done exactly the same way every time... Once you know what you are doing and how you will do it, you no longer have to think about it.<br /><br />Developing systems for your painting business will save you a huge amount of time, energy and frustration in the long run.Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-46456956388335262292009-09-22T09:17:00.006-04:002009-09-22T21:02:14.712-04:00ATTENTION Painting Contractors: NOW Is The Time For Action<h1><span style="font-size:100%;">America's Strongest<br />Building Markets</span></h1><p class="author"><cite>By Prashant Gopal of <a href="http://businessweek.com/" onclick="return Msn.Navigation.OpenPopup(event,this)">BusinessWeek</a></cite></p><h3>Where permits are on the rise</h3><p>Across the country, there are signs of life in the real-estate market as requests for building permits once again begin to pick up. So far this increase is more of a trickle than a flood, but the trend is nevertheless encouraging.<br /></p><p>For the most part, the affected markets can point to a specific reason behind the uptick, such as it being a military base, campus town, major energy town, state capital, site of a natural disaster or a combination of all of the above.<br /></p><p>The market with the greatest increase in building permits was Lake Charles, La., which has been battered by two major hurricanes since 2005. And while half of the top 20 markets on this list saw positive growth, the other half continued to post negative gains. The reason they were included is that they still outperformed every other market in the country.</p><p>=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-</p><p>My fellow painting contractors... the writing is on the wall!<br /></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">NOW</span> is the best time in history to take action and position your painting business for growth in the re-emerging residential painting market...</p><p>As new homes are being built again and property values are on the rise, painting contractors need to focus their attention on tightening up their brand and image, as well as streamlining and systemizing their core process.</p><p>There has never been a better time to build WEALTH with your painting business.</p><p>Our advice is simple:</p><ol><li>Set new goals<br /></li><li>Create the proper Marketing Mindset and keep a positive attitude</li><li>Get rid of old excuses and bad habits that have been working against you.</li><li>Reconnect with past customers.</li><li>Begin to apply a handful of the proven marketing strategies laid out in <a href="http://www.startapaintingbusiness.com/">Painting for Profits</a> on a consistent basis.</li><li>Start building Joint Venture relationships with other professional business owners in your area.</li><li>Improve your brand and image by putting out more signs, get t-shirts (uniforms) for your employees, get a web site built and optimized for your local market.<br /></li><li>Look for ways to get involved with your community and then let the local media know about it.</li><li>Be a FANATIC about your business and take MASSIVE - CONSISTENT ACTION!</li><li>Plug into a quality, respected source of information, (like this blog and our '<span style="font-style: italic;">Painting Contractors Perspective</span>' Newsletter).</li></ol>It has been a LONG three years... This is the time we have all been waiting for... The light at the end of the tunnel!<br /><br />Man, I haven't been this fired up in a long time! If there is a topic you would like us to specifically cover, leave a comment and let us know.<br /><br />Now get out there and make it happen!<br /><p><br /></p>Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33546756.post-57156256530997238502009-09-21T13:45:00.005-04:002009-09-21T14:43:42.307-04:00Pro-Active Painting Business Promotion for FallFall is a funny time of year... Homeowners are in a hurry to schedule last minute painting projects and painting contractors are in a hurry to kick up their marketing efforts before the holiday season starts.<br /><br />One of the best ways to take advantage of the Fall season (and get a lot of great FREE publicity) is so to <span style="font-weight: bold;">organize a block party</span>!<br /><br />Block parties are a great way to get to know your neighbors, as well as create relationships with other small business owners in your community.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Here are a few guidelines to help get your "Block Party" started</span>:<br /><ul><li> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Check local laws and ordinances in your community </span>- Give the County Clerk of Court a call and tell them what you want to do. They will be able to make you aware of the laws and give you details regarding any permits that may be needed.<br /><br /> </li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Contact & encourage local business to participate</span> - Block parties are a great way to network with other local business owners... It's a fun win-win situation where everyone can benefit from the added exposure.<br /><br /> </li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Set a date</span> - Weekends are typically the best for turnout, however if you plan on holding the block party in an area of town where participating business are located, a weekday afternoon will work just fine.<br /><br /> </li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Get the word out</span> - The local media outlets love stories like this and most times are happy to write a story about it, but it's up to you to let them know the who, what, when, where and why of it all. Write a press release giving the details just before the event date... Be sure to contact local radio stations as well.<br /><br /> </li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Make sure you have your marketing offer ready</span> - Have a good idea of what you want to accomplish... will you be passing out a flier or coupon? What about holding a contest for a free paint job? Spend some time coming up with something creative that will benefit the people attending and also helps your painting business stand out.<br /> <br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Seek follow-up publicity</span> - Be sure to let everyone know how much fun was had at your block party, as well as anything eventful that may have happened. Did the Mayor show up? Write a press release about it... Did someone win your free paint job contest? Put it in the press release!</li></ul>With a few hours of research and a little effort, you can gain a ton of free publicity and create a lot of good will among homeowners and business owners within your community.<br /><br />Sit down and brainstorm how you can put this powerful 'Creative Marketing' strategy to work for you!<br /><br />Leave us a comment and let us know how your block party turns out.Andy Thompsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08851275009954549752noreply@blogger.com0