When it comes to a home installation, whatever the size, it’s the smaller details that can make all the difference. In a tough market place, this has never been truer so from installer schemes to the latest apps, it’s important to stay equipped with all the latest tools for the job. Here Tim Barber, customer marketing manager at Schneider Electric talks through some of the latest offerings
Loyalty schemes are one tool that contractors can utilise to help them in their day-to-day jobs but also on a personal level to bring a whole host of benefits. With prizes and rewards up for grabs, schemes can also help and support contractors through business and personal development.
For those looking to expand their knowledge and understanding of key issues and solutions within the marketplace for example, there are a number of potential opportunities for the electrician. From the free online courses available to all, through the Schneider Electric Energy University, to fully accredited CPD training courses held across the country, there’s an option to meet the needs of every installer.
Crucially there are many tools available to electricians but only if they are prepared to invest some time and energy they can reap the rewards. Through the Schneider Electric Ultimate Installer programme for example, smaller electrical contractors can sign up for free and register their details on the website www.schneider-electric.com/uk website. From here, customers are able to search the profiles of members and contact installers directly when a job arises.
Equally, as with many loyalty programmes, Ultimate Installers are also able to earn SE Connect Rewards points on the purchase of over 4,000 qualifying items. Points can then be redeemed against thousands of rewards including high street vouchers, iPads or digital cameras.
It is important when considering joining a loyalty scheme to look at all the benefits. A scheme should not only benefit a business from a point’s perspective but also add value to a business through training programmes and supportive marketing materials. Ultimate Installers also have the opportunity to test and trial new products before they hit the market, providing insightful comments to help shape the industry in the future.
In fact, it was chatting to electrical contractors that led to the development of a new app for the iphone and android phones. When you consider the tools that an installer will always have on the job, the mobile phone is perhaps one of the most common.
The Finishing Touch is the latest app from Schneider Electric that is available for free download, providing electricians with the ability to earn loyalty points, keep up to date with the latest news and CPD training modules and get interactive product demos, all via the handset. With an exciting new interactive photo tool, contractors can also now involve customers in the design process, making the specification of wiring accessories much more accessible.
By simply opening the app and focussing the camera on a customer’s wall, it is possible to show a range of Schneider Electric products and finishes in situ, helping the customer to make a more informed purchase. The picture can then be shared with the customer, emailed or stored in the phone’s library.
Essentially the tool is designed to help contractors in the design process and to potentially up-sell when they are in a customer’s home. When it comes to home decoration, wiring accessories are not always front of mind for consumers, yet can make all the difference to a home interior. With the ability to swap and change product designs and finishes, without having to make any electrical connections, contractors can save precious time and expense on the job.
Needless to say, there are numerous solutions available in the market to help contractors not only improve their business and develop their knowledge but to also help them to sell product on the job. Gone are the days when loyalty schemes were simply a case of points means prizes, they have become an invaluable tool for installers day-to-day.
For further information about the Schneider Electric Ultimate Installer scheme please visit
www.schneider-electric.co.uk/sites/uk/en/general/forms/ultimate-installer.page
The Finishing Touch app is suitable for Apple and Android phones and tablets and is available now from iTunes or Google Play stores.
For further information please visit www.schneider-electric.com/uk. Alternatively, follow the company on twitter @SchneiderUK or Facebook www.facebook.com/SchneiderElectricUK