Windshield Time

When a customer chooses the cheapest option, is it really because of price or because of how it was presented? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker reveal why customers default to low-price decisions—and how techs unknowingly reinforce that bias. Packed with real-world roleplay and proven frameworks, this episode teaches you how to present pricing with confidence, educate customers without confusion, and protect the value of your premium work. You'll learn how to: -Present prices top-down to anchor value -Avoid confusing customers with too many options at once -Leverage the psychology of loss aversion and consensus -Build trust while still selling premium -Reframe pricing conversations to highlight long-term value Mentioned in This Episode: → Only 18% of customers actually buy the cheapest option → Why techs often “lead the witness” toward low-cost picks → The importance of slowing down when presenting pricing → Robert Cialdini's Influence  → Real roleplay examples that build confidence in price delivery

In the trades, busy season feels like chaos—calls stack up, the pressure ramps, and the temptation to rush is real. But here's the truth: cutting corners doesn't save time—it costs you. In this episode of Windshield Time, Todd Liles and Chris Elmore share why slowing down and sticking to the process is the fastest way to consistency, trust, and long-term wins. If you're feeling the heat in your business right now, this episode is your reset button. You'll learn how to: -Stick to full processes—even when you're slammed -Avoid costly callbacks caused by rushed work -Present all options during peak season to boost value -Build trust between schedulers and techs with better communication -Use scarcity and urgency to increase perceived value Mentioned in This Episode: → Callbacks and the cost of cutting corners → Full option presentations—even during demand surges → Schedule trust: defining emergencies and honoring boundaries → Why speed without clarity breaks your team → The mindset shift that prevents burnout and boosts results

Ever presented your findings… and watched the customer go quiet? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker unpack what really causes that reaction—and how to prevent it. From the very first question you ask, you're either setting context or setting a trap. If you want the customer to trust you when it matters most, you've got to build contrast early and deliver findings with clarity, confidence, and control. You'll learn how to: -Ask better questions that build trust and uncover expectations -Use age, maintenance, and filtration to create context -Structure findings as a story—not a list of problems -Separate the “meaning” conversation from the “money” conversation -Keep control of the call while giving customers space to process -Turn presentation anxiety into confidence and clarity Mentioned in this episode: The “bomb blast” effect: why customers shut down The 7-step findings presentation framework How to avoid the “I also found…” death spiral The importance of linking symptoms to causes When to give customers space—and when to stay close Why you shouldn't present findings with pricing attached

“Why do we have to charge so much?” If you've ever asked that question—or had a customer ask it—this episode is for you. In this candid breakdown, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker unpack what it really costs to run a service call, why pricing isn't based on greed, and how to explain value when customers don't understand what they're paying for. This is the financial literacy episode every tech and salesperson should hear. You'll learn how to: -Break down fixed costs vs. variable costs in simple terms -Explain why two water heaters are not the same job -Understand what it actually costs to acquire a customer -Protect profit without cutting corners or rushing the job -Use long-term value (like memberships) to stay profitable -Talk to customers—and owners—about price with confidence Mentioned in this episode: The 100 Pennies exercise for understanding margins True cost breakdowns: marketing, overhead, labor, materials Membership math: how repeat visits lower cost per call Why price is based on need, not greed The problem with "just knocking $500 off" FOLLOW + REVIEW Enjoyed this episode? Follow us and leave us a review. Then share it with a teammate who needs to hear it.

Just because you've been there before doesn't mean the process changes. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker break down the common trap techs fall into with returning customers—skipping steps, rushing intros, and assuming too much.  You'll learn how to: Because familiarity doesn't excuse laziness—it demands excellence. -Adapt your intro without losing professionalism or control -Balance familiarity with structure for a better customer experience -Avoid lazy shortcuts that damage repeat trust -Stay consistent—even when the customer knows your name -Ask instead of assume, and elevate repeat visits with small details Mentioned in this episode: PRESS PLAY adaptations for return visits The “ERR” framework: Empathize, Reassure, Redirect The danger of familiarity: where techs often cut corners Customer loyalty stories (and where they break down) Why consistency > one-time excellence Real-world examples from the field—and a cocktail named Lady Hancock

Not every objection is about price. Sometimes, customers are already frustrated the moment you pull up. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker unpack the invisible minefields techs face—frustrated customers, callbacks, pre-diagnosed opinions, and homeowners who try to control the process. You'll learn how to: -Navigate awkward customer situations without taking the blame -Use the “ERR” method: Empathize, Reassure, Redirect -Avoid apologizing for things you don't own -Guide customers back into your process—without a fight -Stay calm, confident, and in control—even on callbacks or late arrivals Mentioned in this episode: The ERR framework: Empathize, Reassure, Redirect “Time, Crime, or Grime” — why customers don't want you inside The danger of owning problems that aren't yours How redirecting avoids conflict (and earns trust) Personality profiles and their role in tension Why every conversation is low-level negotiation

The best sales pros don't just follow a script—they read the person in front of them. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker break down how understanding personality types (like DISC) helps techs adapt faster, build trust, and close more calls without sounding robotic. You'll hear exactly how to spot a Driver at the door, how a Stable personality might hide their objections, and how to adjust your tone and questions to connect faster with each type.

Ever been told, “I'm getting a few other bids” or “I want a second opinion”—and didn't know what to say next? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker break down how to confidently handle process-driven objections like multiple bids or second opinions. You'll learn how to avoid getting defensive, build credibility early, and ask the right questions to keep control of the conversation and close the sale without pressure.

Money objections are tough, especially when you hear “I can't afford it.” In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker dive into one of the most emotional objections techs face in the field. You'll learn why affordability objections feel so awkward, how to overcome your own money biases, and how to turn a vulnerable moment into a confident path forward.

Ever heard “I need to think about it” and watched your sale walk out the door? In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker unpack one of the most common—and misunderstood—objections in the field. Learn what that phrase really means, why it's usually a smokescreen, and how to respond without being pushy, salesy, or awkward. You'll walk away with tools to turn vague brush-offs into confident conversations that move the sale forward.

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and guest Jack Arnold dive into the game-changing mindset shifts that helped turn a drowning electrical business into a $4.75 million success story. Jack was $250,000 in debt, working until 1 a.m., and ready to shut the doors—until one conversation flipped the switch.

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold “J-Dub” James Walker Jr. tackle one of the most challenging and frustrating objections in the home service world — “I need to talk to my spouse.” They break down why this objection is so powerful, what it really means, and why many techs handle it the wrong way. Chris and James share practical scripts and techniques you can use today to follow your customer onto their sacred ground without getting shut down. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, this episode has it. Listen now and learn how to turn a roadblock into a trust-building conversation. Want to go even deeper? Download our free Ultimate Objection-Handling Playbook, packed with proven strategies and scripts for handling the five most common objections in the field.

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold “J-Dub” James Walker Jr. dive deep into one of the biggest challenges in sales—handling money objections like a pro. Whether a customer says, “That's too expensive,” “I need to think about it,” or “I just can't afford it right now,” how you respond can make or break the sale. Chris and J-Dub explain the difference between objections and denials, why price pushback isn't always about money, and how to navigate these conversations confidently without sounding like pushy salespersons. They reveal key strategies for separating the real issue from the smokescreen, building trust, and presenting solutions that customers say yes to. If you're looking for proven techniques to increase your closing rate and master sales conversations, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Don't leave money on the table—listen now! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked with over 1,000 service companies, learning to avoid costly mistakes and maximize sales performance. If you'd like to dive deeper into this topic or others, reach out to Chris or James directly!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. explain the concept of 1% improvments, and why making them day in and day out compounds over time. They also pull from the James Clear's book "Atomic Habits" to explore how you can implement this idea today! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now! Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. pose the question, "What is the number one thing to do in the home?" Chris and James give great answers that range from establishing confidence to demonstrating professionalism. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now! Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. explore why closing is the natural conclusion to a well executed sales process by making the interaction less transactional and more relational. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now! Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. dive into the LEAP method of handling objections, taking a hard look at the "asking questions" phase. They explore how asking great questions can build trust and credibility and often solve client anxities and issues. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. explore the three ways customers spend with your company; money, time, and emotion. They discuss how these elements intertwine and affect the customer experience, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections in the transaction process. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!     Chapters:   00:00 Introduction to Windshield Time Podcast 03:02 The Importance of Customer Experience 05:55 What's Going Into Your Brain? 08:56 Understanding Customer Spending 12:00 The Role of Money in Customer Transactions 14:57 The Emotional Aspect of Customer Spending 19:00 Decision-Making: The Role of Information 20:28 Assessing Value: Time, Money, and Emotion 24:23 Commodities and Consumer Choices 27:17 Emotional Factors in Service Interactions 30:11 The Trade-off Between Time and Money 35:41 The Importance of Perceived Value 38:51 Navigating Emotional Seasons: The Holiday Effect     Takeaways:   1) Customers spend money, time, and emotion with you. 2) People buy on emotion and justify with logic. 3) Consumers often choose based on perceived value rather than actual quality. 4) Commodities are often judged solely on price due to lack of differentiation. 5) The holiday season can amplify emotional spending and objections. Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. explore strategies to handle the objections you're sure to face in the upcoming holiday season, and how Ralphine from "A Christmas Story" can help you overcome these obstacles. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!     Chapters:   00:00 Introduction   11:39 Understanding the Holiday Objection   14:03 Ralphie's Sales Approach in A Christmas Story   19:32 Influencers and Decision Makers in Sales   21:52 Understanding Influencers in Decison Making   29:09 Ralphie's Strengths: Knowledge and Passion   37:46 Classic Mistakes in Sales: Ignoring Key Influencers   44:55 Lesson Learned from Ralphie's Journey     Key Takeaways:   1) Avoiding weaknesses hinders progress and improvement   2) Knowing the personality types of decision makers aids in sales   3) Handle objections directly rather than resorting to tricks   4) Set clear timelines for follow ups and decisions   5) Using tools like ChatGPT can enhance knowledge and confidence     Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below!   Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. discuss raising the customer's awareness by utilizing the prescription pyramid to build a compelling case of services for the client. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!     Chapters:   00:00 Introduction   02:59 Personal Updates   06:00 Insights from Recent Industry Visits   08:56 Quotes and Their Impact   11:58 Raising Awareness and the Prescription Pyramid   14:45 The Stability of the Pyramid Structure   17:44 Understanding the Prescription Pyramid   19:46 The Importance of Awareness in Customer Engagement   23:59 General vs. Specific Awareness   28:17 The Role of Checklists in Raising Awareness   32:10 Buliding Trust Through Evidence and Awareness     Key Takeaways:   1) Understanding customer language and building trust is key to building trust   2) Checklists are essential for thorough diagnostics and raising awareness   3) The difference between expectation and reality defines customer value   4) Technicians must be aware of common issues in their service areas   5) Effective communication involves both head and heart     Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below!   Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. differentiate between manipulation and influence in sales, emphasizing the need for authentic conversations and building context to create positive influence. They pose the question, "Is creating urgency ethical?" If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!     Chapters:   00:00 Introduction to Windshield Time Podcast 02:57 The Importance of Authentic Conversations 06:01 Life Stages and Family Dynamics 08:48 Understanding Customer Mindsets 12:01 The Role of Maintenance Calls 14:58 Creating Urgency in Service Calls 21:00 Defining Urgency and Its Importance 23:57 Manipulation vs. Influence in Sales 30:02 Building Context for Influence 36:02 Awareness vs. Action in Customer Engagement 42:04 Creating Urgency Through Positive Influence     Key Takeaways:   1) Authenticity in conversations fosters trust with customers. 2) Understanding customer mindsets is crucial for effective service. 3) Creating urgency should be about awareness, not manipulation. 4) Influence is about mutual benefit, while manipulation is one-sided. 5) Building context is essential for effective communication. 6) Awareness comes from asking the right questions. 7) Urgency can prevent negative future outcomes. 8) Service calls should focus on educating the customer. 9) The relationship between technician and customer is vital. 10) Creating a positive influence leads to better customer engagement.     Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. discuss the slow season that trades businesses experience in the winter and how you can best combat it! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Greetings 12:19 - Navigating the Slow Season 17:16 - Understanding Customer Attitudes 19:13 - Managing Company Fears and Anxieties 21:56 - Avoiding Hibernation and The Technician's Attitude 22:49 - Introduction and Bear Analogy 25:13 - The Slow Season and Springtime Wake-Up 26:11 - Avoiding Hibernation Mode 27:37 - The Contagious Nature of Attitude 28:58 - Following Your Process and Maintaining a Positive Mindset 31:32 - The Impact of Effort and Attitude on Company Culture 38:22 - Adapting to the Slow Season 43:23 - Conclusion and Contact Information   Key Takeaways: 1) The slow season in the home service industry brings a change in attitudes for customers, companies, and technicians. 2) Customers may believe that it's not urgent to get work done during the slow season and may have other expenses to prioritize. This is an additional objection you'll have to solve for. 3) Companies may experience fear and anxiety about generating revenue and keeping their employees busy during the slow season. 4) Technicians should avoid hibernation-like behavior during the slow season and stay proactive in finding work and improving their skills. You must maintain a strong work ethic and positive attitude during the slow season. 5) Continue to follow your processes and don't change your mindset. 6) Attitude is contagious and affects customer interactions company culture. Be mindful of this!   Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, hosts Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. explore the principles behind olympic weightlifting and how you can take these ideas into the home service field. Believe it or not, there are many similarities between these two worlds! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now! Sign up for an upcoming class here! The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com Go out and Turn Learning into Earning!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. finds his way back to the Windshield Time studio to rejoin co-host Chris Elmore. Today the duo discusses how to deal with awkard and exceptionally confrontational objections, like religion or politics, while in the home. Yikes! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore is joined again by guest host and Service Excellence coach Matthew Barbosa. Today they discuss managing customer's expectations, where they come from, and how to understand them. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com Matthew Barbosa: 214-878- 9672 or matthew@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore is joined by guest host and Service Excellence coach Matthew Barbosa to talk about the importance of technicians caring for their physical and mental health. Guys in the field must take of themselves before they can adequately take care of the client, and today we talk about how to do just that! So if you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com Matthew Barbosa: 214-878- 9672 or matthew@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. talk about the timeline of the service call, which spans from the dispatch to saying farewall to the client and includes everything in between. If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Harold "J-Dub" James Walker Jr. discuss the importnace of establishing and understanding both input and output KPIs within your business. Output KPIs are lagging indicators that show results, and input KPIs are activities that drive those results. Have you fallen victim to only tracking the outputs of your busienss? If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Harold James Walker Jr. discuss the push back owner's can recieve when suggesting their team members use scripts while talking to clients. What many in the home service industry do not realize, however, is that scripts are not meant to be regurgitated word for word; they're meant to stand as guide for your language. A script is not a track you must stay on, it's a path with boundaries you stay within! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and Harold James Walker Jr. discuss the concept of 'maintenance itis' that technicians often experience during the slower seasons. They explore the symptoms and challenges of maintenance itis and how it affects the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical trades while also sharing personal stories and anecdotes related to chronic conditions and the importance of regular maintenance visits. The conversation highlights the need for technicians to approach maintenance visits with a proactive mindset and provide value to customers! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker discuss the importance of having a conversation with customers rather than interrogating them. They emphasize the need to start the conversation immediately upon arrival, asking questions and engaging in small talk. They also highlight the importance of continuing the conversation as they move through the house or to the affected area. Building rapport and establishing a connection with customers is crucial for long-term relationships and trust. You don't want to interrogate your client! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   Sign up for an upcoming class here!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!   Download the Podcast!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James discuss the RES method of Press Play, which stands for relationship building, evaluation, and settling anxieties. They emphasize the importance of a great introduction and how it sets the tone for the entire service call, provide strategies for starting a conversation with the customer, discuss the importance of being curious and adapting to the customer's profile during the evaluation stage, and more! If you're looking for a nugget of wisdom to up your service game, we may just have it here today. Take one small step and you can have it. Listen now!   The coaches at Service Excellence have worked closely with more than 1,000 service companies and learned from them how to avoid every mistake that can be made. So, if you'd like to talk deeper on this subject and others, use Chris or James' contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James talk about the importance of painting a picture that's easy to see. What does this mean? Your job as a service tech is to diagnose problems, suggest solutions, and execute them. But in the midst of this, it's easy to forget that the homeowner does not always have the knowledge and context you do. Taking the time to explain to the client the extent of your finding and all the little details of the solutions is the act of painting a picture everyone can understand. Check out this episode today and up your service game tomorrow!   Want to talk more on this subject with Chris or James? Feel free to use their contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James talk about the difference replace versus repair dilemma that techniciancs may run into out in the field, and how to deal with these situations. They discuss topics like educating the client on your recommendation, adapting your approach to the client's profile, and more. Check out this episode today and up your service game tomorrow!   Want to talk more on this subject with Chris or James? Feel free to use their contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James talk about the importance of controlling the environment with the client. This is done in large part by properly managing the image you put on display when entering a home. Tune in to hear more about this topic today!   Want to talk more on this subject with Chris or James? Feel free to use their contacts below! Chris Elmore: 254-733-7109 or elmore@servextra.com James Walker: 254-230-5266 or james@servextra.com   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James discuss the psychology of the service call. The conversation ranges from talking about the difference between a fun buy and a forced buy, to understanding the customer's emotional state and providing a positive experience in both scenarios. Tune in to hear more!   Go out and Ignite the Power Within!

In today's Windshield Time, Chris and James are joined by special guest Noel Tarter, the newest coach on the Service Excellence team! Check out this episode for an intro to Noel!

In today's Windshield Time, Chris and James are joined by special guest Joe Person, the newest member of the Service Excellence team! Joe isn't actually new though, as he has spent many years with the company in the past and is welcomed back with open arms. Check out this episode to hear the guys catch up and get your first glimpse of our new Inside Salesperson!

In today's Windshield Time, Chris and James discuss the elephant in the room that looms at the end of every year for salespeople around the country: the holiday objection. Check out this episode to hear how our hosts filter this objection through Service Excellence's PRESS PLAY system to create more success this holiday season!

In today's Windshield Time, Chris and James discuss how in the age of the internet, potential clients can reach for their phones, go to Google, and say, "This service is cheaper at another company!" Treat this like an objection and problem-solve by preparing for the pushback before the call!

In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James delve deeper into our last discussion on objections. Join us as we explore the art of truly assisting clients by empathetically listening to and comprehending their challenges. Instead of merely selling, we'll uncover the power of guiding them through decisions, making the process more about support and understanding than a transaction. Tune in for valuable insights on transforming conversations into meaningful connections.

In this week's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James take a trip in the way back machine and cover an old and well-documented topic: handling sales objections. Tune in to hear our hosts cover this tried and true talking point and explore their insights and opinions on the matter.

In this week's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James sit down to condense one of Service Excellence's most core methods of training. Tune in to learn about the three acts of PRESS PLAY: Bond, Discover, and Secure.

This week's Windshield Time podcast showcases Chris and James rehashing a topic discussed back in episode 51: Do your customers actually understand what you're saying? In other words, how do you interact with clients in a way that goes to their heart instead of their head? Check out this episode and hear the tools you can leverage to better communicate your value in the field!

In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James sit down to explore an interesting scenario: When a customer wants to buy something they know they don't really need, is there an ethical dilemma at play? Join them as they have a thoughtful conversation about how to approach this scenario and discover how it's essentially a lesson in understanding the genuine needs of the customer!

On today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James Walker reunite to talk about doing your homework before stepping into a client's home. Wouldn't you want your doctor to check your medical chart before a visit? Be sure to check your client's chart before your next service call so you can provide more value, professionalism, and a better customer expereince!

In today's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James go over the five fundamental principles of finding great solutions by creating multiple creative, professional, and quality options for clients.

In this week's episode of Windshield Time, Chris is joined by fellow Service Excellence team member Dr. Kerry Webb! We hear them talk about Kerry's history serving the home services industry, Kerry's upcoming college-level training program for service managers in the trades, and more!

In this week's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James share today's pro-tip: using a customer's personal timeline to build context for the age of their system. They also share non-S.T.E.A.M. objections you may encounter and how to respond when faced with them.

In this week's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James outline ways to identify when your discussion of a sale with a customer helps you convey its proper value and when you're overjustifying it. Tune in to find out how to qualify the budget, ask what the customer is thinking and overcome objections, especially when it comes to big-ticket items!

In this week's episode of Windshield Time, Chris and James explore ways technicians can prepare customers for bad news while out in the field. Whether the job will cost more than they are expecting or you find other issues during the call, find out how you can make them feel comfortable enough to make a last-minute decision bomb.