Archives for September 2018

HVAC Advertising Ideas: How to Promote Your Services

September 28, 2018 by Contributed Post Leave a Comment

HVAC Marketing Ideas

You want your HVAC business marketing to be competitive. Take a look at these HVAC advertising ideas to learn how you can promote your services online.Do you want to make your HVAC company stand out in the crowd?

With more than 100,000 HVAC companies scattered throughout the country, that can be a lot easier said than done. It can be frustrating to spend a lot of time and money trying to advertise your business only to come up short in the end.

Fortunately, there are some HVAC advertising ideas that will actually work when it comes to giving your business a leg up on the competition. When you put these ideas to good use, you’ll be able to generate more business and bring in more profit each and every year.

Let’s take a look at some of the HVAC advertising ideas that should make it much simpler for you to promote your HVAC services.

Build a Better Website

If you don’t have a working website in place right now, your first order of business will be to get one. You cannot run a successful HVAC company if you don’t have a website to advertise it.

It’s also going to be hard to run a successful HVAC company if you have an outdated website.

So even if you have a website that’s up and running, you need to make sure it’s being updated regularly to keep the content on it current and fresh.

Need help with either building a new website or tearing down your existing website and putting up something that looks new? LinkNow offers affordable website design specifically for HVAC websites. Let them handle the job for you.

Improve Your Search Engine Optimization

In addition to either building a website for your HVAC business or updating the website you already have, improving your search engine optimization is another key to your success.

You can improve your SEO by:

Publishing content on your site that’s relevant to the HVAC services you provide
Updating the content on your site regularly with new content to cater to your customer base
Pointing out which areas you are able to serve on your website
Linking to other trusted HVAC authorities on your website and convincing them to link back to you

By beefing up your website’s SEO, you’ll ensure that your site shows up when people search for HVAC companies in your area on Google.

The last thing you want is for your business to be buried under other HVAC companies that you’re competing with.

Make the Most Out of Your Social Media Accounts

If you haven’t done it already, set up social media accounts for your HVAC company on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat.

Then, use those social media accounts to show the work that your HVAC company is doing. It’ll allow you to connect with potential customers in your area and stay in contact with them.

You can:

Show off before and after photos of a heating and cooling system you just put in on Facebook
Offer customers a coupon for a specific HVAC service on Twitter
Let customers see what the inside of a dirty air duct looks like on Instagram
Share some thoughts on HVAC maintenance on Snapchat

No matter which approach you take, you shouldn’t ignore the benefits of using social media to advertise your business. Social media doesn’t cost anything and could bring in a lot more business for you on a daily basis.

Create Videos That Showcase Your HVAC Services

Sharing photos and video clips that feature your HVAC company on social media is a start. But what about if customers want to know more about some of the specific services you offer?

You can actually show them what you’ll do when performing those services on YouTube. This will give you an opportunity to really break things down and let them know what to expect from your services.

You can show people how to maintain a furnace before the start of the winter. You can also show them how to fix a broken AC in the summertime. It’ll allow them to see the steps you need to take to keep HVAC systems operational.

You can share these videos on social media. But you can also generate more interest in your business by picking up organic traffic to your videos.

Either way, you’ll be making a strong effort to build more of a buzz around your business with this HVAC advertising idea.

Ask Happy Customers to Leave Positive Reviews and Refer Others to You

When you do good work for your customers and solve their HVAC problems, they’re going to be happy with the services you provided for them. Take advantage of that!

For starters, encourage your customers to leave you positive reviews online if they can. Leave a note on the receipt you give them at the end and ask them to jump online and write a review for you.

People will often search for reviews for an HVAC company before hiring them. So it’s a good idea to get as many people as you can to write reviews for your business. It’ll increase your chances of people hiring you once they see your reviews.

Additionally, you should set up a referral program for your customers. By doing this, you’ll encourage people to refer your HVAC company to others who might benefit from it. Offer them an incentive in return.

The goal with all of your HVAC advertising ideas should be to gradually build up your customer base. The easiest way to do that is to find ways to get your current customers to tell others about the great services you provide.

Use These HVAC Advertising Ideas to Make Your Business Bigger

None of the HVAC advertising ideas listed here are going to work overnight. A new website, a few videos on YouTube, and a handful of positive reviews won’t make your HVAC business an instant success.

But all of these HVAC advertising ideas will establish a strong foundation for your HVAC company. And as long as you continue to push the ideas forward, it should lead to sustained success down the road.

Check out our blog for more ideas on marketing your business.

When More Means Less

September 28, 2018 by Contributed Post Leave a Comment

If you’ve embraced the art of a minimalist decor, you already know by heart the motto ‘less is more.’ The purpose of minimalism is to enhance your lifestyle through decluttering and effective use of space. You get rid of the stuff you don’t use or need and gain in the process not only more room but also a resolutely modern and sophisticated looking interior.

The same motto also applies to the business world, but in a more practical situation. Instead of enhancing design and wellbeing through having less, it’s the management of the more that becomes a main point of interest. Indeed, when the strategy demands more in the name of business growth, the practicality of every day shows that having more means achieving less.

Minimalist Design

More visitors who struggle on a slow website

The dilemma of most small companies is to attract enough visitors to their site to remain in business but not too many otherwise their server solution won’t be able to cope – if your site experiences peak times, it’s a good idea to switch to a VPS solution you can deploy as you need it. Ultimately, when your company becomes popular, but you haven’t been able to adjust your structure accordingly, it’s likely visitors will face lags, slow loading times and inactive pages, causing an increase in bounce rate.

Working longer hours to achieve less

When there’s more to do, the preferred solution for a small business is to work longer hours. Indeed, hiring new employees is a costly process that isn’t always available. However, in the long term, working more doesn’t equal achieving more. On the contrary, your overall productivity decreases as the fatigue accumulates. Increasing your business productivity without recruiting requires a dedicated investment, either in time-saving equipment or in your office structure. Service industries report that remoting working options can let staff maximise their time, achieving better results than in the office.

Working Longer Hours

Image source

Too many decision makers and fewer decisions

A company that is in the process of expanding can acquire new decision makers. Whether it’s the old manager whose experience and market knowledge have made him a member of the board or a new investor, it’s not uncommon for medium to large businesses to requires six to seven individual decision makers for each major decision. While the shift to a mono decisional board to a complex pattern is not bad per se; it’s fair to say that the long process can slow down spontaneous reactions to the market and rapid adaptations.

Too much time, too little to do

In an era where office environments have become hectic, it would be foolish to affirm that having too much time can be damaging. However, even the most hectic workplace fails to maintain regular workflow, meaning that some workers are forced to do nothing but wait until the next task arises. Idle time can be difficult to avoid, but through active task and team management, it can be reduced. Employees who experience it find themselves under-stimulated, bored and ineffective to the company.

More isn’t always better in the business world. In fact, a good thing in abundance can be damaging to your company. Whether it’s too much web traffic or too many informed decision makers, sometimes more causes you to have less.

A Match Made In Heaven: Ensure Success And Your Startup Go Hand In Hand

September 25, 2018 by Contributed Post Leave a Comment

When you’ve found your strength in your products or services in your startup; it’s time to hit the ground running regarding your impact on the market. Competition is fierce, and you’ll need to expect that another company is doing what you do already, not to mention; keeping the momentum going. Therefore, you need to have a more appealing brand identity and travel down every avenue that will help you tempt your target audience to your website. A few social media updates and a business logo is not enough to gain consumer traffic; people have plenty of options to choose from, so be the one that looks the best. The following are the areas of your business that you’ll need to put your effort into in order to get as many people to notice you when you launch your fledgling company.

An Identity Your Audience Will Remember

You need to begin working out everything from your brand’s aesthetics, to how you’re going to engage with potential consumers. Work out your company’s value, ethics, and beliefs, and how each can be represented through your brand clearly. Having a strong character and personality in your business will ensure that people are tempted to invest in you because of more than what you sell or offer.

Consumers are becoming more adept at sourcing products and services online from companies that reflect their own ethics, and there is a growing demand for a deeper meaning to a business, other than just what’s on the surface. If you don’t set your parameters and guidelines at the earliest point; you’ll have no benchmark to gauge how to speak through your website, social media, and the rest of your marketing tactics. Therefore it’s vital that you gain a strong identity from the get-go so that you know how to approach each area of your company and launch anything new in the future. Consistently reflecting who you are as a business will help to build customer trust and they’ll return to you on a regular basis.

Understanding your history, and how your company became what it is, will give your patrons a better understanding of where they’re investing their money. Being clear on how and why you began your business journey will solidify consumer understanding and more people will follow suit; searching for a brand’s story just like yours. When you have a deeper meaning to your brand’s identity; you can build up the aesthetic elements and their design from strong foundations. Carefully consider your color choices, the shapes and texture you use within your branding, and any taglines; these are the first point of contact for your potential customers, so they have to reflect what they can expect from your business. Companies like Vine Digital will be able to expand on what you want and ensure that each element is taken forward to the marketing stage, digitally. It’s worth looking towards your competitor’s branding and design, but don’t stare. Seeing what has worked successfully in the past will give you an idea of what the market responds to and expects.

Ensuring Your New Business Is Seen

Once your branding and identity are firmly in place and ready to portray your business; it’s time to plan your marketing strategy and ensure that all the right people are seeing your presence. You should be planning your marketing and official launch throughout the process of fine-tuning your design elements. Know how you’re going to hit the market with force, so that your launch can go as seamlessly as possible and have the desired effect. Begin by remembering that only a select portion of the market are going to be interested in your business; so it’s crucial that as many of them see your brand as possible. It’s no use a plethora of consumers seeing your company if they’re not going to click through and invest, so targeting the right place should be your focus.

Take into considering the size of your market and where they’ll be; think about their age, location, income, and how they identify to help steer you in the right direction with your marketing strategy. Again, this is another point where you should be looking towards your competitors and those that have already succeeded; you’ll be able to gather some valuable data and knowledge which will assist in your set-up. Think about how to speak best, engage, and communicate with your desired audience, and then be consistent with everything to give to them. Utilize the free information, statistics, and data available on the internet already and discover what people are typing into Google and what keywords have been or will be sending traffic your way; this is another great way to build your keyword list and strengthen its results.

Now you need to begin your attack on social media; find out when the best times to post are for audience engagement and ensure that you’re consistent with your updates. Start your social media and blogging before your website had launched; you want to have a following in place who a ready to head your way on the big day. Set up a landing page on your site, so that when people do click through they’ll see when you’re due to launch, and you’ll be getting your click-rankings higher and gaining data along the way. Speak to relevant influencers and see if they can help promote your company in exchange for free services and products; building a strong relationship with those who have loyal followers already will help them see your brand and build up your own follower count.

Staying True To Brand

Now that you’ve solidified your brand’s identity, your keywords, and the correct outlets for your marketing; it’s time to use your company’s voice to promote who you are, what you provide, and why you’re a better alternative to your competitors. Whether it’s a charitable cause, how your products are made, or the colorful history of your brand that sets you apart from the rest; be loud and proud about it to ensure that your consumers can hear you.

Keep an eye on your competitors and be aware of how the market is changing with what people expect and how new technology and processes are evolving your sector. Use your information wisely, and your startup’s identity will be an appealing option for those you wish to draw into your business.

5 Ways To Mix Business And Philanthropy

September 24, 2018 by Contributed Post Leave a Comment

Business Philanthropy

It’s possible to make money and give something back at the same time. Philanthropy means ‘love of humanity’ and is all about making a difference to people’s lives. There are lots of ways in which you combine business and philanthropy – here are just a few options for those that want to mix the two.

Start a business with a philanthropic cause

The easiest way to mix business and philanthropy could be to start a business with a philanthropic cause. This could include starting a home care business or setting up your own dog shelter. When mixing the two it’s important to get the right balance between the two – you don’t want to feel as if you’re exploiting a cause, but neither do you want a negative cash flow from being too giving.

Donate some of your profits to charity

Another option could be to donate some of your company’s profits to charity. Many companies do this – it could be something you do with all purchases or simply a select few products. You could also start separate fundraising campaigns as a way of donating to charity. In the latter case, you’ll probably want to set up a charity account to separate charity earnings from business earnings and make it easier when bookkeeping. Make sure to choose a charity that you and your employees feel strongly about.

Invest money in community projects

It’s possible to also help out your community by investing money into projects such as local festivals, sports events, new buildings or new local businesses. On top of giving back to your community, this could help to build your reputation and spread awareness of your brand locally. Try to avoid controversial projects if possible as this could divide people and cause you to lose out on customers.

Think green

More businesses are adopting green methods, both as a way of saving money and saving the planet. Consumers are often more appreciative of businesses that are environmentally aware. Popular ways of being greener could include becoming paperless, recycling more waste and using sustainable energy such as solar power. Driving less often could also be a way of becoming greener by helping to lower your carbon footprint though lower fuel consumption.

Think ethical

The final way in which you can mix business and philanthropy is to adopt more ethical practices. This involves only sourcing materials and inventory from fair trade suppliers and potentially using less animal by-products, especially if harm was caused to the animal. Being labelled as ‘ethical’ can be a selling point in today’s society – more consumers than ever are taking concern in where there are products are sourced.

Building a green business

Consumers want to do business with companies who are ethical and green. Studies have shown that people prefer brands that help them make a difference. The best way to make a real difference is to start a green business, for example a renewable energy company. There’s currently a huge demand for renewable energy, according to Green Match, ‘More economies are finding efficient and creative new ways of producing and storing renewable energy to meet the rising energy demand of the world.’ Renewable energies need to work with the right suppliers to source quality equipment, for instance NEMA 6P equipment.

Businesses across every industry can use their products and services to create positive change. Any type of business can practice philanthropy, there are plenty of ways to make a difference.

5 Office Products That are 100 Percent Worth the Splurge

September 24, 2018 by Contributed Post Leave a Comment

Office Products Worth the Splurge — modern office building interior. 3d rendering concept

There are certain office products that are 100 percent worth splurging on for the sake of a better business and workplace.

Read on to learn the top 5.

When considering how to set up your new office space, it’s important to take special care in your selection of office products. Think about your long-term goals and longevity. It’s not wise to splurge on bargain basement office products when you can benefit the productivity — and happiness — of your staff.

There’s that saying about “happy wife, happy life.” But, perhaps even more resounding, it’s important to keep in mind “happy staff, happy life.” When your staff members feel valued and cared for, they’re more willing to work hard to produce for your company.

In this article, we’ll cover everything from Internet service providers to office chairs, to office desks, and even tea and coffee selections. If you want to keep this ship afloat, you must start with a little care and sincerity. Ready to shop?

1. Fast Internet Service

No office can exist without internet service. And not just any internet service, but the fastest plan available. You want to be able to reply to those emails and video conference with ease.

Business.org ranked the fastest business internet service providers of 2018. Although Verizon came in at the top of the list, you’ll want to be careful when making your considerations.

While Verizon comes in number one with the right mixture of fast speeds, competitive pricing, and customer service, there is a range of other options. For example, AT&T technically has faster speeds with 1,000/1,000 Mbps compared to Verizon’s 940/880 Mbps. Yet, they each boast a similar reliability guarantee of 99%.

This will probably boil down to who is available in your area, but nothing else can begin without fast internet service.

2. iMacs or MacBooks

While we’re on the technology front, you absolutely want to splurge on iMacs or MacBooks for all full-time employees. These machines boast sleek modernity and offer a wealth of other benefits, including fast processing times and a scarcity of viruses.

The other perk to MacBooks is the fact that they receive regular software updates, increasing their longevity. In this Business Insider article, the author admits to still maintaining and operating his 2008 MacBook.

Even when/if you do experience any trouble, Apple’s customer service is phenomenal. They can patch into your computer over the phone to diagnose your problem or you can bring it right down to your neighborhood Apple store.

Sure, they come with a stiff price tag, but isn’t it better to receive quality over quantity? You won’t have to replace it with a new machine in three to four years’ time.

Also, the majority of us carry iPhones in our pocket. MacBooks pair seamlessly with iPhones, making the transfer of documents and chats easy as pie. Of which, MacBooks will prove particularly easy to pair with your office copier.

This is the icing on the cake — minimal printer trouble. To take a look at the various types of copying machines you might like to pair with your office Macbooks, feel free to enjoy this article.

3. Electric Kettle & French Press

Next up, it’s time to nourish your employees’ spirit and soul. With an electric kettle and french press, everyone can enjoy top-notch coffee and tea selections. Be generous; lay out a selection of teas every week. Likewise, set out decaf and regular coffee selections.

The simple act of taking a ten-minute break with a proper cup of tea or a strong dose of coffee sends a daily dose of appreciation your employees’ way, and that will pay itself forward endlessly.

4. Comfortable Office Chairs

Now, onto the singular office item where all employees spend the bulk of their time — the office chair. Proper lumbar support is of utmost importance. Lower back pain sets in fast and hard when employees sit in a stationary ill-supported chair for hours on end.

Being able to adjust the chair height and the armrest angle will be important. Beyond that, you’ll have to make some considerations between mesh or material, including faux leather.

As with everything else these days, the options abound. But don’t base your selection on price tags alone. Remember, you’re making an investment in your people.

5. Sit-to-Stand Desks

As for comfort and overall health, there’s one more element. A proper sit-to-stand desk provides optimal health for your employees. Studies abound, indicating the harrowing effects of a sedentary lifestyle. Of course, heart conditions top the list, along with a wealth of other pains and pangs.

These desks come with a price tag, too, as does everything else on this list. But, the important thing is that you’re focusing on the long game. With happy and healthy employees on staff, innovation is more likely to skyrocket.

Office Products That Send the Right Message

With something as simple as a well-stocked tea selection, you’re sending out signals that you care with the right office products. Nevermind the power of an ergonomic chair and health-promoting desk.

And that’s what we’re all about here. With a fine balance between self-care and hard work, both you and your employees will prosper. Take a look at three ways personal development can benefit you.

Happy employees are also more likely to partake in teamwork and collaboration. With less griping and moaning, something like teamwork comes at no cost. In fact, they’ll probably meet in the conference room to toast their mugs of gourmet coffee.

And then, just for fun, here are a couple ways you can boost your startup today. Digitization and marketing are two core strengths covered in this article. May your profitability and success continue to skyrocket!