Andy Mickelson, the owner of Mickelson Plumbing & Heating and host of 'Make Trades Great Again,' shares valuable insights from 25 years of entrepreneurship. He delves into the importance of mentorship and continuous learning while navigating the challenges of running a business. Andy also emphasizes innovative problem-solving over routine approaches and discusses the vital role of exceptional customer service in building trust and referrals. Additionally, he explores how modern software solutions can streamline job management and enhance efficiency in the industry.
The speaker emphasizes the steep learning curve of entrepreneurship, highlighting the need for practical business education and mentorship.
He discusses the importance of community, networking, and learning from seasoned professionals to enhance personal and professional growth.
The podcast highlights the significance of a customer-centered approach that fosters long-term relationships and leverages technology for business efficiency.
Deep dives
Founding Journey and Motivation
The speaker shares insights into the founding journey of his plumbing and mechanical company after experiencing a change of heart about his previous job. With 25 years of experience, having only worked at two places, he felt stagnant and recognized the need to take control of his future, especially as a young family man. This pivotal moment led him to start his own business where he could envision greater possibilities for growth and achievement. The decision to become an entrepreneur stemmed from a desire for autonomy and a vision for what he wanted to create.
Navigating Business Skills and Education
Entering the world of entrepreneurship revealed an unexpected gap in business knowledge that the speaker wished he had addressed earlier. He highlights the importance of being equipped with key business skills, such as managing finances, getting funding, and understanding taxation. Although he had foundational economics knowledge, he acknowledges that practical, targeted education on running a small business would have greatly eased his transition. The learning curve was steep, filled with mistakes along the way, but he emphasizes the value of seeking help and advice from others in the field.
Value of Networking and Mentorship
The importance of community and networking in the trade industry is emphasized as a crucial element for personal and professional growth. The speaker has found value in trade councils, which connect individuals with shared interests and challenges in their craft. He highlights a formative experience of attending a meeting with more established contractors, where he learned to listen and absorb information from seasoned professionals. This exposure to varied experiences reinforced the belief that entrepreneurship shouldn't be an isolated journey and that reaching out for help can lead to significant advancements.
Effective Hiring Strategies
Finding and nurturing talented employees is acknowledged as a fundamental challenge for business growth. The speaker discusses unique hiring experiences, including successfully recruiting his lead technician through social media, specifically Instagram. He reflects on how prospective hires who actively showcase their work online demonstrate a passion for quality, which aligns with his company's values. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of ongoing evolution within the workplace, allowing employees to explore new ideas and fostering a motivated workforce that can adapt to an ever-changing industry.
Customer-Centric Approach and Long-Term Success
The speaker discusses the necessity of adopting a customer-centered shopping experience that prioritizes long-term relationships over one-time transactions. By focusing on the total value offered to customers, including thorough follow-ups and service, he builds loyalty and a reputation that encourages referrals. Furthermore, he leverages technology, such as AI and effective scheduling software, to enhance his efficiency, making it easier to provide quality service. Ultimately, his approach is about ensuring customers are satisfied with their investments and confident in recommending his business to others.
Andy Mickelson of Mickelson Plumbing & Heating is a plumber, a podcaster, and a lifelong student. He and Roland discuss the not-so-gentle learning curve that comes with learning on the job. All entrepreneurs know that curve. Andy also shares who he’s received advice from over the last 25 years and the role mentorship has played in his own development. Learn how Andy ditches routine to look for better and more innovative solutions on every job, keeping things new and exciting. He also explores the install vs. repair mindset and shares what his team loves most about Housecall Pro.
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