Masters of Home Service

From Job Site to Oversight: Transitioning Out of the Daily Grind

How do successful entrepreneurs find time to focus on growing their business? This episode will help you understand how to free up time to work on your business, rather than in it. We discuss identifying tasks to delegate, recognizing when to offload your workload, balancing operational efficiency with delegation, and practical steps for creating effective systems. Ensure you're spending your time on high-value activities that match your salary and propel your business forward. Join host Adam Sylvester and Michelle Jeppesen, Director of Business Development and Customer Success at Jill’s Office.
 
(00:00) Introduction to the episode and guests 
(00:58) The entrepreneurial mindset, and the inherent risk of experiencing burnout 
(03:41) Identifying parts of your business that you’re passionate about, and what should be delegated 
(05:55) Indicators that it’s time for entrepreneurs to begin offloading workload and why you need to learn to 'fire yourself'  
(09:09) Balancing operational efficiency with effective task delegation 
(11:16) Saving valuable time with Jobber’s business operations tools 
(12:22) The typical delegation journey of a home service business owner 
(13:25) Immediate steps for freeing up time and the importance of creating systems 
(15:16) Benefits of professional phone answering services 
(17:20) Spending your time doing work that matches your salary  
(19:07) Techniques for maintaining focus on business growth 
(21:08) Adam’s key takeaways: realize you can’t do everything, look for indicators that your business is out of control, and have systems 

Job Description Examples that Attract Top Talent: Overcome Hiring Challenges

Struggling to find the right talent for your team? In this episode, discover how to craft job ads from an all-star manager known for her incredible employee retention and creating a team of happy, loyal employees. Learn the secrets to writing compelling job descriptions that effectively outline growth opportunities and integrate your company values. Also, find out why focusing on entry-level hires can transform your recruitment strategy. Join host Adam Sylvester and Danielle Rossi, CFO of The Tree Lady Company.
 
(00:00) Introduction to the episode and guests
(01:15) How to create job ads that make hiring easier 
(03:14) Crafting compelling job descriptions and job titles 
(05:50) Outlining growth opportunities in job ads 
(08:04) The structure of an effective job ad 
(08:51) How Jobber helps with managing employees and eliminating the chaos of business operations 
(10:45) Integrating core values into job descriptions to attract the right candidates 
(13:39) The challenge of finding candidates with the right mindset and goals 
(16:36) Preference for hiring entry-level candidates that align with your company values
(18:02) Inclusion of benefits and additional perks on job listings 
(22:14) Adam’s Key Takeaways: crafting compelling job descriptions, consider green candidates, and convey values in job description 

#1 Secret to Selling More Jobs at Higher Margins

Discover the ultimate strategy to boost your sales and profit margins in this game-changing episode. Learn how a crucial mindset shift and setting prices based on your true costs can transform your business. With practical guidance on marketing, customer engagement, and transparent communication, you’ll be empowered to sell more jobs at higher rates and ensure fair compensation. Join host Adam Sylvester and Tom Reber, host of the Contractor Fight Podcast.
 
(00:00) Introduction to the episode and guests 
(01:18) Selling more jobs at a higher margin requires a mindset shift 
(02:26) Set prices based on your costs, not the ‘going rate’ 
(03:40) What it means to aim for a 50% gross profit margin, and its impact on business growth 
(06:24) Positioning your brand to sell at higher rates 
(07:26) Making the decision to stop stealing from your family 
(08:28) How to ensure fair self-compensation 
(11:21) Using Jobber to automate your business and free up your time 
(11:55) Benefits of consistent marketing and planning marketing activities in advance 
(14:58) Maintaining and engaging with your customer database to enhance loyalty and secure repeat business 
(18:34) Sell like you don’t need the money 
(20:00) Job costing to develop sales confidence and increase profitability 
(21:30) Be proactive in customer follow-ups and marketing efforts 
(24:47) The power of transparency and providing clear, helpful educational content online 
(28:31) Adam’s takeaway tips: contact past clients, aim for 50% gross profit, educate your clients 

How to Beat Your Competition and Dominate the Market

Discover the key elements to outshining your competitors and dominating the market! This power-packed episode uncovers the foundation of building a brand that stands out among your competition to attract the best customers and loyal employees. You’ll learn how to effectively communicate your unique selling proposition, enhance customer and employee experience, and maximize your Google listing to elevate your business. Gain valuable insights to boost your brand awareness, increase referrals, and embrace community collaboration. Join host Adam Sylvester, Christine Hodge, CEO of Clearview Washing, and Phil Risher, owner of Phlash Consulting.
 
(00:00) Introduction to episode and guests
(01:20) How to communicate your unique selling proposition
(04:52) Enhancing customer experience from start to finish as a key differentiator
(07:26) Training your customer service team for phone communication
(08:08) Quick booking clients over the the first phone call and catering to different tiers of clients
(10:17) Automating the process of providing personalized service
(10:48) The role of branded vehicles, uniforms, and accessories in beating your competition
(13:48) Underrated Jobber features that help the guests elevate their operations
(15:28) Community involvement and sponsorships to build brand awareness vs. lead generation
(19:40) Increase job referrals by hosting company events that build community and empower employees
(23:32) Actionable tips for how to approach competitors in your market
(27:32) Adapting service offerings based on client demand while maintaining profitability and employee safety
(31:15) Using superlative terms in your marketing
(33:49) Collaborating with competitors and the benefits of community over competition
(36:18) Adam’s takeaway tips: Maximize your Google listing, quickly solve problems, and have a cohesive brand

Financial Guide of a Multi-Million $ Home Service Business

The ultimate financial guide for home service businesses, focusing on key metrics, cost management, cash flow, and scaling strategies. Dive into the essential metrics critical for every business owner to understand and learn how to use them for better budgeting and forecasting. Plus, get actionable insights on optimizing your overhead and improving profitability. Join host Adam Sylvester and Tyler Martin, host of the Think Business with Tyler podcast.
 
(00:00) Introduction to the episode and guests 
(01:34) Key metrics business owners need to focus on 
(04:28) Analyzing trending data to spot potential business issues and grow your business 
(06:27) Managing labor costs and staff utilization to improve efficiency 
(10:22) Understanding your business’ numbers to improve job profitability 
(11:46) Using Jobber to build a financially strong business 
(12:26) Overview of primary financial statements, and the value of a professional bookkeeper for budgeting and forecasting 
(16:45) Factors to consider when developing a pricing strategy 
(18:10) Managing overhead costs to optimize business growth 
(20:59) Using autopay to improve cash flow and reduce accounts receivable issues 
(22:25) The difference between profitability and cash flow and how expenses affect them 
(24:32) Cash flow considerations when transitioning from residential to commercial work 
(25:09) How to pay yourself as a business owner, based on business structure 
(27:27) Financial considerations for scaling a business 
(28:53) Understanding fixed costs to determine your breakeven point 
(30:16) Adam’s takeaway tips: Know your key four metrics that are critical to your business - get a legit bookkeeper - you need to start budgeting - be a data-driven company 

Boost Your Sales Game with Proven Strategies

Learn how to elevate your sales skills from seasoned expert, business coach and host of the Contractor Fight, Tom Reber. Discover techniques like the 'profit touch' to re-engage past customers and the Shin-Fu sales process that cuts sales time in half while increasing profitability. Gain practical tips on asking the right questions and adapting sales tactics to meet customer needs effectively. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you transform into a sales powerhouse. Join host Adam Sylvester and Tom Reber, host of the Contractor Fight Podcast.
 
(00:00) Introduction to the episode and guests 
(02:31) The importance of sales when transitioning from trade work to business ownership 
(04:07) Adapting sales strategies based on changes in the economy 
(06:28) Using the 'profit touch' strategy: reaching out to past customers to boost sales 
(08:56) Listening in sales and avoiding technical jargon that customers don't care about 
(10:48) How to use Jobber to become the company you want to be, and become a sales machine 
(11:33) Asking the right questions in sales to understand customer needs and priorities 
(12:41) Introduction of the Shin-Fu sales process that Tom uses to cut sales time in half and improve profitability 
(15:33) A real-life example about how addressing specific customer concerns leads to winning a high-value project 
(22:23) Pre-qualifying leads and handling different types of customers 
(27:17) Asking the right questions to uncover client needs and motivations 
(31:28) The need for sales discipline and avoiding negative assumption 
(35:06) Handling objections related to price during sales discussions 
(37:38) Adam’s takeaway tips: don’t wait for Google to keep feeding you leads - be proactive and go hustle, peel back the onion - ask questions and make your leads feel important and heard, create a pricing page - clients shouldn’t be shocked when they get in touch with you

8 Secrets to Building a Million Dollar Business

Prepare for growth with these insights on refining your customer base, overcoming business bottlenecks, and leveraging strategic metrics for scaling in this dynamic episode. Discover practical strategies to attract the “good” customers and optimize your operations, from marketing to customer service. Learn how small, consistent improvements can dramatically reshape your business. Whether you're looking to dominate your local market or streamline your operations, this episode packs powerful tactics to transform your business approach. Join host Adam Sylvester and Dominic Rubino, host of the Profit Toolbelt podcast. 
 
(00:30) Introduction to the episode and guests 
(01:00) How get more of the “good” customers 
(02:53) How to understand what your ideal customer is 
(04:14) Reaching out to ideal customers, including both online and in person 
(05:51) How to avoid becoming the bottleneck in your business 
(09:11) Strategic planning and tracking the right business metrics 
(11:31) The roles of marketing, sales, and customer service in business growth 
(13:10) What Adam loves about Jobber, and how he uses it to run a successful business
(14:05) Why bottlenecks are like schoolyard bullies 
(16:30) Making small, consistent improvements rather than large, dramatic changes 
(21:00) Practical marketing strategies, focusing on dominating a neighborhood and client acquisition 
(24:45) Reducing operational costs by minimizing travel time and optimizing client locations 
(26:13) How accountability impacts business management, the benefits of having accountability partners 
(29:21) Adam’s takeaway tips: you need to have a business owner mentality and get out of technician mode, don’t be the bottleneck - make small, weekly changes, and lastly, own the neighborhood where your best clients are 

You Should Spend This Much on New Leads (Here’s Why)

Get into the essentials of budgeting for lead generation for home service businesses. Explore effective strategies for using Google Local Service ads, optimizing local SEO, and understanding the costs associated with different advertising platforms. Learn how to calculate customer acquisition costs, get practical advice on maintaining engagement with potential clients and understand how to maximize the return on your marketing investments. Join host Adam Sylvester, and Phil Risher, owner of Phlash Consulting. 
 
Introduction to the episode and guests [0:30]
Effective lead generation platforms and their costs [1:07]
Setting up and optimizing Google Local Service ads [3:34]
Do Google Local Service ads work, especially in competitive markets? [5:05]
Optimizing local SEO and Google map pack positioning [6:39]
Calculating customer acquisition costs [9:27]
Tracking the source of leads for accurate marketing insights [12:46]
Most important number you need to know as a business owner [14:30]
How much you should be spending on Cost per Click [18:04]
Getting optimal search impression share in Google Ads [19:38]
How Jobber helps home service businesses scale [21:17]
Ideal return on investment in marketing and the role of lifetime customer value [22:53]
Keeping leads that haven’t converted top of mind [24:15]
Adam’s takeaway tips: Google LSA are the best value and the simplest way to start basic ads, make sure your Google Business Profile is fully maxed out, get as many Google reviews as you can, once you start spending money on marketing - track everything as much as possible [30:08]

4 ChatGPT & AI Tips for Business Owners

Learn all about the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and see how it's transforming business efficiency and content creation. This episode unpacks how AI tools can tackle writer's block, improve customer engagement with personalized content, and more. Discover tools like Jasper AI for crafting content and how image generators are revolutionizing marketing. Get the scoop on the everyday benefits of weaving AI into your business routines, and stay ahead in the fast-paced digital arena. Join host Adam Sylvester, and Richard Grove, COO of Wall Control, Small Business Consultant and the host of the Organization Conversation podcast. 
 
Introduction to the episode and guests [0:30]
AI's impact on business efficiency and overcoming writer's block [2:22]
Jasper AI and its uses in content creation [4:30]
Advanced tips and hacks for AI tool users [6:44]
Intro to 'Dally', an image generation tool, and using it to create marketing materials [7:50]
Using AI to improve customer engagement with personalized media [9:46]
AI-generated ads and the occasional errors in them [11:43]
Using AI to create business logos [12:21]
Repetitive yet fresh content in marketing [14:19]
What Adam loves about Jobber’s marketing tools [14:55]
Using AI for creating terms of service and other legal documents [17:40]
The potential risks and benefits of AI-generated contracts [19:55]
Becoming an AI expert within your business community [21:48]
AI's practical benefits in daily life [26:01]
Adam’s takeaway tips [26:24]
 
Where to find Richard:
Wall Control
The Small Business Consultant
 
Where to find Adam:
Adam Sylvester

Top 5 Targets to Track for Non-Stop Business Growth

In this episode, understand the essential targets every home service professional needs to track for unstoppable business growth. From redefining business revenue and mastering marketing ROI to boosting average job sizes through strategic customer interaction, uncover actionable insights to push your operations forward. Learn low-cost marketing hacks and why net profit trumps revenue. Tune in for a power-packed session that equips you to not just compete but dominate in the market. Join host Adam Sylvester and David Moerman, owner of Revive Services and the Home Service Business Coach.
 
Introduction to the episode and guests [0:30]
First target for business growth: tracking business revenue [1:21]
Breakdown of how monthly and daily revenue targets to achieve business goals [2:32]
Net profit over revenue and managing fixed expenses [4:13]
Marketing ROI and the importance of effective marketing spend [6:06]
Cost-effective and free marketing methods [8:11]
How to track marketing conversion ratios [10:56]
Maintaining high conversion rates and strategies for realistic, profitable pricing [12:27]
Optimizing the sales process and moving towards in-person sales models [14:05]
How David and Adam’s teams benefit from Jobber’s tipping feature and other optimization features [17:17]
Upselling and engaging customers during service delivery [19:31]
Active marketing strategies and leveraging new tools for customer re-engagement [21:21]
Average job size as a critical metric for tracking business performance [22:02]
Impact of job size on operational efficiency and customer value proposition [25:51]
Significance of online reviews in business growth and reputation management [27:26]
Setting aside CEO time for strategic planning and the importance of patience [31:34]
Adam’s takeaway tips: it’s time to return to in-person selling, work backwards and learn how many leads you need and the average job size, it’s time to hustle with a range of marketing tactics [32:34]