Smart service entrepreneurs often want to create ongoing revenue streams that offer ongoing service to their clientele. Let’s talk about this using a simple business model: a boat and yacht cleaning company. Not long ago, I was asked if I thought it would be wise to offer a weekly washing service for boat owners. I agreed, and have been successful with this. The contractor also asked; “If a bi-monthly wash schedule with full details and wax every month was included, would that be a good idea/plan for potential customers?
Yes, sometimes a wash service plus spray wax every month, plus full details every other month makes more sense for cost-conscious folks. Anything you can sell you should promote it. Call one Premium Service, the other Super Deluxe Care, or come up with some kind of cool name, let customers choose, or even tweak their standard offerings? Of course, this leads to other important questions like:
“Do you have any contracts/service agreements? I could use yours as a guide/template and write my own. If not, where could I get one to start with?”
Good question, and this is what I think about it; You see, we never really use them, I am personally opposed to them as they give the operator a false sense of security. All of these agreements are ‘performance based’ and if the retailer defaults, they are null and void anyway; it’s like you can’t catch the customer to pay unless the job is done correctly, as promised and on time. There are standard service agreements that are used in this industry and in all service industries from cleaning to fleet washing, they are available online with a bit of searching (for free) and yes they are great templates.
One of the best things about agreements is that if you sell your business, having written agreements with all major clients shows proof of cash flow and income, which is important to secure a high price or when listing with a local business broker. , that is if you sell and invest your money in your next business venture.
If you still want to get a good template, take a look at your local marina and their service contracts for various services, or check out your other ship listing competing companies in your area, see what they’re doing, then actually do something. soul searching on this, perhaps your best marketing point might be; “We don’t make our customers sign long-term service contracts, we don’t need them, we’re sure you love our services, so we don’t have to lock you into a legal agreement.”
