Episode 30. Learn from My Mistakes: Using Live Data to Track KPIs with Ismael Valdez
Dec 8, 2020
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Ismael Valdez, CEO of Nexgen, shares his journey from startup to $30M, discussing technician tracks, efficiency practices, and the transition from hustling to running a business. They emphasize the shift to review-based referrals and the importance of tracking KPIs for contractors.
DataCube provides live KPIs for contractors to make informed decisions on technician performance.
Ishmael Valdez scaled his HVAC business to $30M in 4 years focusing on relationships and learning.
NextGen integrates technology and a family-like culture for success in the contracting industry.
Deep dives
DataCube: A Solution for Educated Decision-Making
DataCube was created to display live KPIs for contractors, enabling them to make informed decisions on technicians, sales, and all aspects of contracting. The podcast guest emphasized the importance of treating contracting as a business through educated decisions.
Ishmael Valdez's Journey into the Trades
Founder and CEO of NextGen, Ishmael Valdez, shared his journey from starting in high school at an auto supply house to scaling his heating and air shop to $30 million in four years. His rapid growth strategy emphasized the value of strong relationships and a keen focus on learning and adapting within the trade.
The Culture and Future Vision of NextGen
NextGen's innovative approach integrates technology and a family-like culture to drive success. Ishmael's focus on data-driven decisions, family support, and team structure is evident in the company's growth. The vision for NextGen includes advancing the industry through technology and a customer-focused approach for the next generation of contracting.
Efficient Operations with Multiple Locations
By strategically expanding to eight locations with a focus on micro-locations, the business aimed to leverage digital platforms like Google and Yelp by optimizing responsiveness, reviews, and proximity to generate leads and increase revenue. With three operational locations equipped with in-house Vendor Management Programs (VMIs), the company successfully provides swift and efficient services, ensuring a five-star customer experience through prompt responsiveness and proximity benefits.
Employee Growth and Career Progression
The business implements a multi-tiered technician system to ensure appropriate skills match jobs, while continually promoting technicians based on performance. This structured approach not only enhances efficiency and service quality but also provides clear career paths. By encouraging and supporting technicians to start their businesses after reaching the project manager level, the company fosters entrepreneurship and industry growth, emphasizing the importance of employing good people for business success.
