The More we Use Technology, the Larger the Window of Opportunity Becomes

RSC Influencer Jon Stantz says contractors might think they are using technology in their businesses, but they probably aren’t using it enough.

We don’t use technology enough in our work.  I am older (soon to be 59) and somewhat set in my ways but I’m also a little intimidated by some technology. Fortunately for Pell Roofing & Siding, we have some younger team members that are not intimidated and help those of us who are less technologically inclined to get on board.

We’ve implemented the use of iPhones and iPads and have come a long way from the days of just looking at properties on Google Earth. We use RoofSnap software every day and it enables us to measure a roof remotely and give the customer a pretty good idea of what the project will cost. But I suspect we aren’t using it as well as we could. We could use some classroom time and should take advantage of learning opportunities, so we can do it even better.

I truly believe that the more we use technology, the larger the window of opportunity will be for our business.  In fact, we have to adapt because that is where our customers want us to be. We are seeing many more customers in the 35 and younger age bracket that want to communicate through text messages and email. They don’t even have landline phones. Most of them are working during the day and aren’t home so they need communication methods that fit their schedules and lifestyle.

By using iPads and iPhones, we are able to take pictures on the roof, sketch it out and show the customer exactly what needs to be done. That is how this demographic is making decisions – digitally and on the go. They also want to look things up online. Emailing them a brochure is fine, but they will take that brochure and visit the website that it listed there so they can see the information and digest it at their own pace.

While some of us may still have a preference for a pen and paper over a keyboard, I’ve learned that we are dealing more and more every day with customers who are at work, in their car, on the go so unless we are able to be mobile and supply information the way they want it, they won’t want to do business with us.

Jon Stantz is a supervisor, salesperson and repairman for Pell Roofing and Siding in Brazil, Indiana. See his full bio here.