Some email subjects or phone call openers might include:
- Do not panic—we have a plan to open your pool/spa;
- Get your pool opening kits—we will pre-package them and deliver the products to your home via ‘curbside delivery,’ or we will give you a time to pick them up at our warehouse;
- Do not panic—we have a plan to keep your pool/spa clean, clear, and safe all summer;
- Pool openings—we are here for you;
- We are open online;
- We deliver;
- We can open your pool—in person or remotely;
- Do not panic—we will uncover your pool and get that swamp water clean and clear;
- We will help ensure your pool/spa water is clean and clear for your summer ‘staycation’; or
- Curbside retail available.
Take the time to explain that for everyone’s safety, the retail storefront is closed, but staff will deliver the products they need to their car window or front porch.
Enhance project management
One of the best ways a pool and spa service company can manage its projects and still provide exceptional service during this time is by implementing the latest mobile platforms. Mobile technology will be especially important this spring and summer to not only ensure operations run smoothly, but also make sure the business has a profitable season with happy, loyal customers.
For example, a pool and spa service company should look for a mobile software platform that can be accessed at any time and from anywhere using a phone or tablet, and has the following features:
- Record results—record pool or spa water test results from the job site to automatically become a part of the customer’s records (eliminate service forms);
- Calculate recommended chemical dosages—prompted by the mobile software platform through the app;
- Add job notes—then select an easy-to-use ‘customized checklist’ to record service work performed;
- Add parts and chemicals used directly to the ‘sales order’ through the mobile device;
- Co-ordinate payments—take payments at the job site. To comply with social distancing, it is best to take online payments and give online receipts;
- Inventory search—look up inventory from the job site;
- Inventory counts—do physical inventory on service trucks;
- Get paid—give customers the convenience of securely paying their bills online with a credit card; and;
- Inventory lookup—check prices, quantities on hand in all warehouses, and reference all alternate part numbers. Do physical inventory on service trucks by Universal Product Code (UPC) to always keep inventory up to date.
Further, the software should allow service technicians to view all scheduled pool opening jobs along with the customer’s equipment profile, job notes, directions, and photos on file.
