Last year had its challenges, but has also opened up new windows of opportunities for small businesses and contractors alike.
And now more than ever, it is imperative that contractors focus on building successful businesses capable of managing tough times, and ready to take on the good times. With that in mind, here are four ways for electrical contractors to boost their business with prepaid sub-meters.
Jump on the trends
One of the biggest trends to emerge from 2020 was working from home (WFH). People turned their homes into offices, parking their computers on anything that offered them privacy and a space to work. They had to adapt to a landscape that had changed dramatically and find new ways of working. At first, it was a holding pattern as people waited to see what happened. Now, desks and office chairs are selling out as people start to make plans for a longer-term approach to WFH. With this in mind, they are also looking to their companies and accountants to help reduce home expenses, like electricity and connectivity. And this is where prepaid sub-meters come in.
“There has been a sharp rise in the demand for prepaid sub-meters thanks to the WFH trend,” says Jaqueline Basson, CIC Loyalty Manager, at Citiq Prepaid. “This is the perfect opportunity for contractors to take advantage of a growing market.”
Build relationships
Focus on building relationships with companies and customers this year. With the right people at your side, you can expand your business and customer base through word of mouth, shared markets and high-end solutions. This is the perfect time for contractors to work with partners to help them make the most of opportunities and deliver even better service to customers. As the market continues to struggle with the pandemic, trusted partners can make all the difference.
“The next few months will be defined by change and shifting market needs,” says Basson. “Staying ahead of this change, remaining ahead of the curve, is challenging. Partnerships allow you to explore new markets, unpack new opportunities, and potentially find new revenue streams that you didn’t consider in the past.”
Leverage opportunities
There are not many loyalty programmes designed specifically for the electrical contractor, but the Citiq Installation Club (CIC) was the first in South Africa. This loyalty programme supports contractors and wholesalers by providing them with additional resources and benefits that are relevant to their business and industry.
“We designed the CIC to be simple, accessible and financially beneficial,” says Basson. “You gain immediate benefits from your installation of Citiq Prepaid sub-metering solutions, receiving a voucher worth R500 once a certain number of meters are installed that can be redeemed at your preferred Citiq Prepaid wholesaler. The more you install, the more you earn. Plus, you become part of the country’s largest installer database.”
Pay attention to people
The old adage ‘it’s not personal; it’s business’ has become less and less relevant. In fact, people are gravitating towards companies and individuals that show compassion and humanity during an unprecedented time in history. Work with people you trust, sweat the customer’s small stuff, and ensure your prepaid sub-meters are of exceptional quality. If your customers know that you use the best prepaid sub-meters, offer high-end service, and connect them to a trusted service provider, then they will recommend you to others and keep you on speed dial. And, in times like these, the value of recognising the importance of people is invaluable.
Citiq Prepaid is South Africa’s most trusted prepaid sub-metering service provider offering superb service, support and products. We work with contractors to create opportunities, support their growth, and ensure that everyone is happy – from the customer to the contractor.
