What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I work to provide transparent pricing. Depending on the job, I walk my customers through all steps that are required and the materials that will be needed, if any. This allows my customers to fully understand the cost of labor and materials.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I like to ask questions to fully understand the need of the customer. Sometimes thumbtack and the descriptions don't provide a full explanation of the job needed to be completed. I really like to come take a look at big requests in person, this allows me to discuss details with the customer to ensure I provide a quality end product.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My background extends across multiple fields of expertise. I have a degree in electronics which allows me to provide work in specific jobs like wiring, electronic installation, lighting, etc. I worked as a Process Technician at the chemical plants for 4 years, so I have experience with pipefitting, troubleshooting, and general problem solving. Lastly, my Father ran a successful construction company for many years before taking a job at NASA himself. As a result, I have been shadowing him and doing construction work since I was 3. Now as a NASA technician, I am able to tie all my experience together to build full-size mockups for testing and help lead us to the next step in space travel.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I have been tinkering and fixing things since I was a kid. Once my son was born, my wife became a stay at home mom, so that meant I needed to fill our income gap. As a result, I started fixing things for family and friends. After doing that for about a year, they all said I should branch out and make my services available to everyone. Since then, my handyman side business is really gaining traction, as I continue to expand and connect with customers that need bigger jobs completed.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I work with customers of all ages and backgrounds. Right now, baby boomers are at an age that they struggle to find reliable help, as a result, I have built a large portion of clients in the baby boomer age group.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
Last year I was commissioned to complete an interior paint job of an entire home. I have completed man paint jobs, but that was the first time I painted every square foot of a home, ceiling, walls, trim, doors, baseboards, everything. It turned out great and led me to a repeat customers.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
Ask lots of questions. The more information you are able to get from a contractor of handyman, the better. This will allow you to understand the work they're going to perform and what you can expect. Once the work is complete, make sure to look over everything and discuss details with them. DO NOT let them leave without taking a look at their work and confirming it is to your standards. Unfortunately, too many contractors will do a quick and dirty job so they can move on. As a result, you are out lots of money and end up with a terrible result.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
It always helps to ask about the materials that will be used for specific jobs. This way you can be on the same page and know what to expect. You might even have knowledge or want a specific type of material to be used, so this is the point to provide that info and make sure you get what you want.