Tag: small business

What Makes a Successful Home Inspector

January 5, 2021

By Jon McCreath, NPI, Inc.’s Technical Supervisor & Training AdministratorPictured: Brian Shabino (middle) and Team, NPI Sioux Empire Home inspectors have a particular set of strengths they continue to cultivate throughout their careers. These go way beyond the inspection process itself in ways that might surprise you! Here are the top traits of the most successful inspectors: DetailedIn a field like inspecting, it’s the little things that count. Thoroughness is crucial in everything from writing a report to communicating with a customer. There can be a fine line between diligence and over-bearing perfectionism, and it’s important to find the right balance. Nobody is perfect, and stressing over it will slow you down. But crossing your t’s and dotting your i’s shows clients that you care about them as people and don’t think of them as just another sale. Desire to Learn Whether it’s picking up a book, talking to a mentor or simply reevaluating after you’ve made a mistake, continuing your education is crucial to becoming a well-rounded inspector. Taking it upon yourself to learn new inspection best practices shows great initiative, and your dedication will shine when you interact with clients and agents. Online classes, following along with updates

Tips to Keep Growing in 2021

December 29, 2020

By Kimberly Stevens, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Coach As we head into the new year, now’s the time to start planning for more growth in 2021. Following the events of the past months, the forecast for how small businesses will operate has dramatically shifted. Here are a few of the things you can implement over the next 12 months to stay on track and achieve your goals. Dig in with your social media. It can’t be stated enough how crucial a strong social media presence is to grow your business. This last year especially showed how much your digital accounts factor into keeping your company afloat during uncertain times. Looking ahead, it’s only going to become more important that entrepreneurs leverage their social media. Twenty percent of consumers are likely to choose a brand that they can reach on social media, meaning that you’re missing out if you’re not online. Take the time this year to revisit and rebuild your social media to get the most out of it. Nail down those customer reviews. Going hand in hand with a strong online presence, collecting reviews also needs to be part of your plan. Almost 90 percent of customers read reviews before

Top 10 Customer Appreciation Gifts

December 15, 2020

By Stepha Vesper, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Communications Specialist Clients and agents do so much for your business, and showing your gratitude goes a long way in maintaining a strong relationship. A small token of your appreciation makes them feel valued, and they’ll be more likely to recommend your services. Here are a few ideas you can use to keep people coming back. 1. Offer a discount or coupon. More than anything else, people like to save money wherever they can. They may even exhaust every search avenue to find the best deal that also provides great service. A slight markdown on a service you offer will grab their attention. Create a flyer that you can hand out or a post you can share on social media. 2. Give away snack bags. To sweeten the deal with customers and agents, treats are just what you need. They’re a simple and inexpensive option that still shows your customers you’re thankful for their business. Customize your baggies with a thank you note for a more personalized feel. You can also attach your business card that clients can pass along to their family and friends that may need you. These are also perfect to

A Manager Mindset: Using DISC for Smoother Communications

December 1, 2020

By Kimberly Stevens, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Coach The world is made up of people with all types of personalities and backgrounds, so naturally, business is no different. From clients to employees, each individual has their own unique style of communication and leadership. Each style can provide a great advantage to your business, but getting over initial communication barriers to reach your team’s full potential can be a challenge. That’s where DISC comes in. Introduction to DISC The DISC personality assessment reveals the four most common communication styles seen in personal and professional settings. Most people are a combination of two styles, though some may find that they’re a combination of three. Technicians and Entrepreneurs You can think of the “C” and “D” styles as being technicians and entrepreneurs, respectively. Cs, or Technicians tend to be perfectionists, and are quick to notice something that’s out of place. They’re also practical, and are more “doers” rather than “dreamers.” Meanwhile, Ds, or entrepreneurs thrive on change and growth. They always want to reach new goals and are determined to do whatever it takes to achieve them. Managers The “S” personality represents a managerial way of thinking. They’re steady-going and like to help others

The Science Behind Brand Consistency

November 24, 2020

By Sydney Arp, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Specialist & Designer We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Consistency is key when it comes to marketing. It’s true in more ways than one. Consistency on social media increases your following. Consistency in customer service improves your reputation. And consistency in branding earns you more money. In fact, consistent branding across all of your marketing channels is proven to increase revenue by 23%. What is Brand Consistency? Consistent branding can involve anything from the colors you have on your brochures to how you interact with customers. It’s the experience–from start to finish–that you want to give each person, with as little variation as possible. The best way to maintain a steady brand is by establishing your operating principles: identify your core values and develop your company’s mission and vision statements: At NPI, we encourage our franchisees to develop their own mission statements using our organization’s core values of Honesty, Integrity and Professionalism. Once you have these important items established, you can use them as a guide in future decision-making. Whether it’s the way you talk to clients over the phone or the design of your business cards, brand consistency is all

Elevator Pitches: Marketing Yourself in an Instant

November 17, 2020

By Kimberly Stevens, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Coach Elevator pitches help business owners provide service highlights in a quick, precise manner, which is perfect for today’s fast-paced flow of information. Whether you’re new to the elevator pitch or just need a refresher, here are some tips for crafting one like a pro. Purpose of an Elevator Pitch The main purpose of an elevator pitch is to grab the attention of prospective clients on the fly. You can use it at the coffee shop, at trade shows or anywhere else where you want to reach more people in less time. Ideally, you want to make your pitch last between 30-60 seconds (around the length of an elevator ride). If you run too long, you’ll lose interest. If you undershoot it, your audience may leave with more questions than answers. Content of Your Pitch The most difficult part of creating an elevator pitch is trying to “trim the fat” in your conversation. You want to be able to cover all the information you need, without feeling as though you’re cramming it together. Some important items to remember when creating your speech are: Ending with a call to action is crucial for engaging the

Eliminating Excuses to Succeed in Business

November 10, 2020

By Adam Kiesel, NPI, Inc.’s Digital Marketing Assistant Stumbles and setbacks are a natural part of business, and everyone will experience them at some point. However, sometimes these failures can dictate future business interactions and expansion plans. The good news is that there are ways for you to overcome your own excuses and achieve the goals you’ve set for yourself. The Impact of Excuses Excuses are essentially mental roadblocks that knock you off of your set course, both in life and in your business. They can stem from either negative past experiences, or the fear of a possible future outcome from a decision made now. No matter where they come from, excuses have a negative impact on your development. Big or small, they could keep you living in a state of fear forever if you don’t acknowledge and try to overcome them. Here are a few common excuses that business owners find themselves using, as well as solutions to prevent feeling “stuck.” “I don’t have the time now.” Not having the extra time to work on new projects is something many new business owners lament at one point or another. While it’s good to stay busy with your work, you

The Benefits of a Strong Support System in Business

September 29, 2020

By Stepha Vesper, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Communications Specialist Oftentimes in business, you find yourself making difficult decisions without anyone else to consult. Trying to decide what is best for you and your company is extremely stressful, and you may find yourself avoiding these tough calls altogether. So where can you turn to when you need a helping hand? Building a Support System A support system can be a great way to help you as a business owner deal with complex decision-making and any issues you may encounter along the way. You’ll have the ability to brainstorm solutions from an array of different perspectives, looking at a problem from all angles and forming a viewpoint you may never have otherwise. Support systems can also serve as a valuable tool for keeping yourself accountable and reaching your goals. Using Close Connections as a Lifeline Having a group of people with firsthand knowledge of your industry and small business ownership makes complex decisions a bit easier to navigate. Never hesitate to turn to your NPI/GPI family! We’re here to support each other in all things, whether it’s technical advice, marketing strategies or business management operations. Friends and family might not have the same

Just a Number: Starting a Successful Franchise at Any Age

September 22, 2020

By Zach Vesper, NPI, Inc.’s SEO and Marketing Specialist Some common characteristics that come to mind when people imagine a successful startup owner are youthful, energetic and academically accomplished. Popular thinking dictates that once you’ve cemented yourself in a career that it’s too late to start something new. However, this evaluation couldn’t be further from the truth. You don’t need to be a 20-something prodigy to start a business. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of successful entrepreneurs don’t start their business in their early twenties. In fact, studies show that they’re far more likely to be in their early to mid-40s. Older entrepreneurs tend to enjoy a higher rate of success because they have life and career experience on their side. Chances are you yourself have had a few “learning experiences” that have better prepared you for venturing out on your own. What inspires someone older to start a business? A 2020 report by Guidant Financial shows that out of 3,000 small business owners surveyed, almost 87 percent were aged 40 and above. So what is causing the shift from corporate to entrepreneurship for people this age? The answer for most is the fear of letting life pass them

Why it’s Smart to Keep an Eye on Your Competition

September 1, 2020

By Zach Vesper, NPI, Inc.’s SEO and Marketing Specialist There are countless ways to educate yourself as a business owner. With books, classes, online materials and networking groups, options abound for every busy schedule and personality type. One other important means of learning that doesn’t often get lumped in with the list above is studying your competition–and it may just be the most worthwhile of all. The insight you might gain just through the power of observation can help you avoid certain missteps and grow your business that much faster. Here’s what to look for when it comes to analyzing your competitors. Recognize the Good Without Ripping it Off We’ve all seen a business concept done exceptionally well and said to ourselves, “I wish I would have thought of that!” Remember, there are always new ways to put your own spin on an idea and make it entirely your own, if not even better. Never resort to copying another’s idea verbatim, but notice what you like and look ahead. How could your own business benefit from a stellar marketing campaign or a revamped inspection package? Rather than get stuck in an endless loop of comparing your business to a competitor,

Everything You Need To Know To Make Your Next Email Campaign A Success

November 22, 2022

By Stepha Vesper, NPI, Inc.’s Senior Communications Specialist All business owners know the power of email marketing to capitalize on leads and convert sales, but the numbers are striking. According to Litmus’s “The CMO’s Guide to Email Marketing,” email marketing has the highest return on investment across industries, averaging $42 for every dollar spent! Though these numbers fluctuate depending on the industry, it is no secret that email marketing can be incredibly powerful. However, sometimes it can be tough to figure out how to get started. Whether this is your first email marketing campaign, or your fiftieth, here are some ways to make your next campaign a hit! 1. Identify Your GoalWith any monetary investment, small business owners should always consider how each dollar spent will lead to growth. Goals for a single email marketing campaign can be more than just securing more business. Campaigns can be geared towards increasing your brand recognition within a specific demographic, community, or area that might be underrepresented. Alternatively, a campaign could focus solely on gathering feedback on your business with previous clients, or introduce you client base on a new or underutilized service. Whatever your goal, identify it as a starting point, and

How to Make the Most Out of Your Indeed Job Ad

November 15, 2022

By Stepha Vesper, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Communications Specialist Making new hires is always an exciting venture. Either your business is growing, or you’re ready to fill an important vacancy to satisfy a need. In this position, it is important to know how to hire right and make the best use of the tools at your disposal. In the inspection industry, it can be difficult to find qualified individuals to add to your team. We have found that personal referrals from industry professionals (such as real estate agents or other inspectors) tend to result in the most successful hires. But when these contacts aren’t providing many leads, it may be worth trying Indeed. Indeed is a popular job-finding platform, recording over 250 million unique visitors each month, and hosting over 150 million resumes. With such impressive traffic, Indeed provides a great opportunity to get your job ad in front of a large audience. However, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the most out of your investment with Indeed. Screener QuestionsA frequent experience that employers can have when working with Indeed is a barrage of applicants. Too many options are better than too few options, but many

4 Ways to Create a Positive Work Culture for Your Small Business

November 8, 2022

By Kimberly Stevens, NPI, Inc.’s Marketing Coach As your small business grows, you may find yourself in a position to hire additional employees, expanding your team and delegating duties as far as your finances allow. While growth is exciting, it also comes with its own set of problems. A successful small business owner must also become a successful team manager. They impart their vision for their business to new team members, who must become productive workers and genuine brand advocates. After making your new hires, you need to earn their loyalty and create an ideal environment for them to operate as optimally as possible. This, of course, all hinges on the quality of your work culture. Do your employees dread work, or do they look forward to it? Are they willing to make concessions when times are tough, or will they back out when they are most needed? Consider these tips to strengthen your company culture and develop a family-like atmosphere that makes work something to look forward to. According to a Globoforce study, happy employees are 85% more efficient in their work and stay in their positions twice as long. Although it might be common sense, sustaining a team

Pre-Inspection Agreement: Why They’re ALWAYS A Must-Have

November 1, 2022

By Jon McCreath, NPI, Inc.’s Technical Supervisor & Training Administrator In establishing a successful inspection franchise, there are so many things to worry about. From learning how to best market yourself and your services, to offering the best possible product, new inspectors have plenty of areas that can command their attention. In these moments, it is important not to overlook the standards and the basics of the business. One standard process that you should never skimp out on is the pre-inspection agreement. Let’s review the pre-inspection agreement and its unique importance. BackgroundA pre-inspection agreement is a standard form which outlines standards, scope of work, and expectations for an upcoming property inspection. There are many reasons why this form has become a stock-standard part of every inspector’s business plan, but of particular note are the liability protections that they provide. Although no inspector intends to find conflict with a client, a disagreement is likely to come up at some point. The pre-inspection agreement is the rule-setter that keeps every inspection fair and clear. Some basic aspects that a pre-inspection agreement describes include: ConsiderationsSome inspectors are more strict than others with how they administer and handle their pre-inspection agreements. Some inspectors may

5 Podcasts to Grow Your Small Business

October 25, 2022

As a National Property Inspections franchise owner, you are one part inspector, one part marketer, one part entrepreneur. Needless to say, there can be a lot on your plate. To stay on top of the competition and to become the best leader in your industry, it might be valuable to find a podcast to help you on your way. Today, experts are freely offering their years of experience and personal stories to listeners through an easily consumable medium. Here are a few podcasts that could help you grow your inspection business! 1. Home Inspector Podcast by InterNACHIAverage length: 1-5 minutes, with an occasional “webinar” podcast that can be between 1 and 3 hours.Releases: Twice a day every weekday. As inspectors, a great starting point podcast is the Home Inspector Podcast by InterNACHI. The majority of releases are extremely short, sometimes with no introduction at all. These topics briefly explain how to perform a specific task relating to property inspections. The Home Inspector Podcast is a great option for inspectors looking to brush up on their knowledge or looking for quick, easy review material. The webinar releases are obviously much longer and seem to be direct uploads of online classes and

Test Taking Strategies

October 18, 2022

By Jon McCreath, Technical Supervisor & Training Administrator As an inspector, there are plenty of licenses and certifications that require strong test-taking skills in order to succeed. Perhaps the most difficult examination out there for inspectors is the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). Everyone tests differently, and some people have a tougher time when tasked with demonstrating their knowledge in scenarios where the stakes are high. Here are a few techniques to consider for setting yourself up for success in high-pressure exams: Study the MaterialNothing beats good preparation, but what is good preparation? Slowly moving through covered material can be difficult and time consuming, which is why many resort to cramming. Cramming is the technique of covering a wide range of topics in a very small amount of time, typically right before a test or exam. According to one study, 72% of students felt that cramming was more beneficial than evenly spacing their study time. Despite this belief, this same study found that methodical studying was more beneficial to 90% of the study’s participants. Cramming can be a helpful review tool, but when reliably retrieving information in a high-pressure setting, slower, evenly-spaced studying leads to more consistent results. In short,

Entrepreneurship 101: How to Set Your Employees Up for Success

October 4, 2022

After a brief pause to enjoy the sun and hit the beach, we return to our Entrepreneurship 101 series. Here, we outline some of the best tips for running your franchise like a seasoned pro. In our first entry we discussed how to lead your franchise, and in our second entry we covered the best hiring practices. Now that you’ve got a new batch of employees, it’s time we made them into rockstar members of your company. Here’s how you can put your team on the fast track to success. Start Strong New hires have a lot to think about. They want to prove their competence, they want to give off a positive social impression, and they want to ensure they made the right choice for themselves in accepting their new position. It can be a stressful time! As an owner, a manager, and your team’s leader, it’s your job to walk them through an onboarding process that instills confidence for everyone on the team. First things first, set clear expectations so that your new employee knows what success looks like. Start with the basics. What does their first week look like? Their first month? Give them a clear picture

Entrepreneurship 101: How to Hire Right the First Time

July 19, 2022

To see continued growth and development in your business, you may consider growing your team. To ensure that you’re hiring the best individuals for your needs, here are three crucial questions to ask during the interview process. What to Ask: What do you know about the company? What Their Answer Reveals: This question is one of the most telling regarding whether the applicant has done their research on NPI. If the applicant knows nothing about the company, or provides incorrect information regarding NPI, it’s a no go! What to Ask: What about inspection interests you? What Their Answer Reveals: Answering this question correctly is very important in this industry, as it’s essential to look for people pursuing this position for career purposes rather than just a regular job. Those who are not able to provide a clear answer to this question should set off alarms for you. What to Ask: When would you be able to start? What Their Answer Reveals: If the applicant implies that they can start right away with little to no regard for their current employer, it’s another red flag. At minimum, a two weeks’ notice should be provided. After all, how you get them is

Entrepreneurship 101: How to be an Effective Leader

July 12, 2022

As a National Property Inspections franchise owner, you’re so much more than just an inspector. You’re an office manager, a marketing coordinator, an accountant, a boss, a mentor, and a teacher—just to name a few. In our Entrepreneurship 101 series, we’ll cover leadership traits and tips specific to running a successful inspection empire. As part of a national network, your resources as an NPI inspector are plentiful, and we’re excited to share what we’ve learned about effective leadership in our industry. Lead By ExampleAlthough it may sound cliché, it’s important to align your business goals with your mindset. Even if you’re currently a one-man show and don’t have plans to hire in the near future, getting into a leadership mindset will help you elevate your thinking to that of a boss. After all, being a leader is not about being front and center. True leadership comes in the form of behind-the-scenes hard work and dedication. To be successful in your business, it’s vital to have goals set for where you want to see yourself in the next year, along with a plan of action for how you hope to achieve your goals. In the pursuit of your goals, it’s helpful