Okay - Here goes!
As many of you know, I have been working on a network of contractors in the Carolinas for several years. It has grown to more than just a bunch of us talking via the bbs. I am officially going to launch the PWNC (Power Washers Network of the Carolinas).
FOR NOW, this is NOT an organization like we are accustomed to seeing. FOR NOW, it is a network or cooperative and an opportunity to become one unified voice for our states. I would like to see it grow to become a formal organization, however, I don't feel like one person should have all of the decision making authority or responsibility to do that. This has been in the works for a long time, as I said, but there seems to be an increased need right now for collective efforts.
This is not coming without cost - some of the things are being provided have to be funded on a regular basis but the fees that are going to be associated are reasonable and affordable for even the smallest and newest of companies. The following is an outline of what the PWNC can provide for contractors and homeowners alike.
First, and an immediate need:
We need a voice in the government for the issue at hand (water restrictions). This is the PERFECT opportunity for one body to speak to our officials and explain how power washers can provide SOLUTIONS to the water problems. We have remedies for water reclamation, for using less water to clean, to maintain areas as opposed to unscheduled “emergency cleanings” that requires more time and water. The PWNC can write letters and represent a group of business owners who offer relief - part of the solution instead of being part of the problem .
For Homeowners:
Website (searchable contractor list)
www.pwnc.org (Site will also be a split level where as a contractor you can get information that you would prefer your customer NOT to be able to research but at the same time, the first level would be for the customer to find you.) And no, it's not up yet - a few more days and it will be!
Articles – It’s one thing to have an article or text on your website, but if your article is “published” on a site that has multiple professionals, the consumer perception is that you are a highly qualified expert in your industry, not just on your site.
For Contractors:
Business tips:
• Sample contracts and other documents – reviewed by NC & SC attorneys
• List with where to buy from…or not to.
• Do’s & don’ts for start up business - How to plan for "these times"
• Bookkeeping tips (QuickBooks Pro!)
• LLC, SP, Corp advise
• Insurance information
• EPA regulations
o Understanding the Federal Clean Water Act
o State specific regulations
• Licensing info
Logo usage – See attached - this is a no-brainer !
Ad formats, submission & maintenance (craigslist code). PWNC will have constant ada in every listing directing seekers to the pwnc.org site to search for a contractor. In the future, print ads that cover statewide (Associates may be required to contribute/share cost for better exposure)
Bulk ordering for specified areas – obviously someone in the mountains of NC and the coast of SC won’t benefit together but everyone will be able to find contractors near/around them to order collectively with to save on shipping or get volume discounts.
Discounts from Vendor sponsors!
A Store!
• Predesigned marketing material – postcards, brochures designed with space for your company name & contact info – you pay only for printing/shipping.
• Stickers, pens, etc…..
Newsletter (s) PWNC will have a newsletter announcing plans, talking about achievements, planning events or functions, etc
Semi-annual meetings / round tables
Training courses convenient to our states – ie, enough contractors want a class, we’ll make the class come to us.
Mentor Program – Associates who would like to serve as mentors can provide their information and areas of expertise to new Associates/businesses. It will be the mentor’s decision as to how “close” they are willing to work with new contractors. New Associates will have a mentor assigned upon request.
Private Forum - There will be a contractor only forum for us to discuss plans, projects, issues that we face in the Carolinas.
You’re probably thinking, “all of these things are on the other forums and it’s free”, BUT many times answers are generic and not necessarily applicable to our area – also – this information will again lend credibility to our individual companies as businesses that strive to be completely professional. Once active and content is in place, the in-links to contractor sites will help with individual rankings.
My goal with this network is to (1) unify a group of contractors with similar businesses that experience the same demographic and geographic challenges (2) to help the industry to evolve through public education into a more realistic profession in our customers eyes, both residential and commercial, (3) and ultimately set a model for other states to follow that could later result in a strong national organization.
I look forward to input from all Carolinas contractors - I'm certain that I could never think of everything that we could need on my own but just from reading all of the bbs for the past years, I believe that the PWNC will start on the right track and provide a solid base to grow from.
Thanks guys
Celeste
