OK, it sounds a bit women’s weekly magazine, but in an era where we all work blooming hard for what we get (when did you last have a lunch hour?), our expectations have risen. We want value for money in everything that we pay for.
Whilst we may be happy to pay for cheap fashion, knowing that it may not last for long, but neither does the fashion trend it’s interpreting, the same can’t be said when we are looking for a plumber. There’s no point paying a tenner for the plumber to fix only half the plumbing risers, when the other half of the risers are still leaking.
So what makes a good Plumber?
Whilst some may say a nice pair of navy dungarees, casually open and draped over one shoulder, the shiny silver buttons reflected the whitened teeth paid for by the $200 per hour we pay them, the less shallow amongst us are inevitably looking for more.
- To be treated as a human
It isn’t rocket science. Be nice to people, and there’s a fair chance they will be nice back. If I am looking to pay someone to do some work, then they can treat me as if they value my business. I don’t want endless compliments and flower deliveries, just a good, sound customer service delivery. Be happy, be positive!
- A timely appointment
When we call a plumber, firstly we would like him there within the year, and if it’s an emergency, a minute. Certain places offer a 24 hour call out and will honour what they advertise wherever possible. Whilst we have to bear in mind that it is unlikely they have been sat waiting for us to call, and if they are, does that mean they are not much cop, certain situations do need prompt action. If I am having a washing machine delivered next Wednesday, it would be great if it could be plumbed in the same day, and as long as I have given some notice, you would hope that could be managed. If they want your business and value your business, they should be trying to accommodate you. If you are a first time customer, a washing machine installation could lead to much bigger things – they never know by that first contact.
- Punctuality
When we are waiting for someone to turn up – we are literally doing just that – waiting! We don’t go to the toilet, make something to eat – the world stands still, in fear that we may be interrupted. If you the plumber is going to b even a minute late, they should ring. Everyone in this business has a mobile phone, and there is no excuse. If there is, however, a real unavoidable event, they should apologise and be honest. There is nothing worse than being made to feel gullible.
