7/1/2008
2:31:34 PM 

In response to some comments made regarding installers in previous threads, I felt the need to discuss flooring experience in general.

Let's face it, all experience is good experience. If someone spent years in flooring sales, they would no doubt have an extensive knowledge base from which to draw from.

Throughout the decades that I have been involved in the flooring industry, I have observed repeatedly how much more informed installers are. The value they contributed to my thriving business was immense.

I can't tell you the times I sold products I thought were 'the best', only to be approached by one of my experienced installers who would explain to me why I shouldn't be selling it.

They had no 'hidden agenda' with the manufacturer, but simply by handling the particular product day in and day out in a way I couldn't possibly relate to, knew much more intimately how the product would perform under certain conditions.

Installers proved to be my best investment. After weeding out the undesireables, I was left with a stable of experienced craftsmen and trusted advisors. It became increasingly clear that even with all of my years of experience, my success over the years was owed more to those who worked the trenches everyday for me, my trusted installers.

7/1/2008
7:05:50 PM 

Sadly, many if not most stores and/or salespeople have no loyalty to their installers.
If some one else can do it sooner, cheaper, and faster they get the job.
But I have learned to see these type of installers as job security for me. As I am the one whom they end up needing to satisfy a ticked off customer or contractor.

barry