Many home improvement contractors are hesitant to try virtual selling, as they have misconceptions about how it works and their ability to connect with customers. Here’s the truth behind seven of the biggest myths about virtual selling:
This is far from the truth. In fact, many customers appreciate the convenience and efficiency that virtual selling offers. For example, Groundwork has received thousands of positive reviews from prospects using our tool.
With the increasing prevalence of technology, people are accustomed to researching online before scheduling an in-person appointment. Virtual selling allows potential customers to get information quickly without waiting for someone to come out in person. It also offers more flexibility regarding scheduling appointments, reducing appointment cancellations and no-shows.
Additionally, virtual selling gives customers the ability to interact with contractors in a more comfortable and stress-free environment than in-person meetings.
The digital age has brought tremendous changes, including how businesses tell their stories. Virtual storytelling techniques like video and social media have been gaining increased popularity in recent years.
Videography allows home improvement contractors to showcase their work, products, and services in a more engaging and effective manner. These videos can be shared on social media platforms, corporate websites, and YouTube, allowing for broad reach.
Additionally, contractors can create virtual showrooms on their websites, allowing potential customers to view their work remotely and get a sense of their style and capabilities.
Many assume that virtual selling lacks the human element that in-person interactions offer. However, virtual selling allows contractors to connect with customers in a way that may not be possible in-person.
For instance, virtual selling tools often include messaging features and video conferencing options, which allow customers to have a real-time conversation with contractors.
Additionally, virtual selling allows contractors to respond to customer inquiries or concerns even after business hours have ended and communicate more frequently throughout the sales process.
Virtual selling is highly versatile and can be employed for projects of all sizes. Even large-scale projects involving multiple professionals from various fields can be managed effectively through virtual selling.
Virtual presentations, shared videos, and remote project management tools make virtual selling the perfect solution for these types of elaborate projects. By using virtual selling to arrange online meetings, businesses can ensure that everyone involved is on the same page and can work collaboratively to achieve the project goals.
Virtual selling is not only effective but can also be cost-effective, especially when compared to traditional in-person selling. Virtual selling eliminates the cost and time associated with travel, and the use of virtual selling tools can help businesses manage their marketing budget. Additionally, it allows contractors to reach out to a wider audience, improving their business leads and ROI.
To see the ROI you would make off of virtual selling, try our free ROI calculator.
Virtual selling is not just for the tech-savvy, as many people assume. Users do not need technical knowledge of any specific tool, as most virtual selling platforms are user-friendly and straightforward to use. Many software programs use things such as text messaging, email, and web conferencing (Zoom) that most people, particularly after the pandemic, are used to using.
While you may need to invest in certain technology, such as video conferencing software and other digital tools, many platforms offer reasonable prices or even free use for those just getting started. Once you’re set up, you will save money overall since you won’t have to pay for gas or travel-related expenses each time you reach out to a customer.
Virtual selling has gained much popularity in recent years, and it's time to demystify the misconceptions surrounding it. It provides business owners with a great opportunity to generate leads, boost their ROI, and manage projects more effectively.
Contractors who have not yet embraced the various virtual selling tools should consider embracing them to enhance their interaction with customers. With Groundwork, home improvement contractors globally are saving time and money by connecting with customers virtually. Click here to learn more.
Jeff is an expert on technology in the trades. In his career, he has spent time in commercial and residential contracting, small business consulting, and technology. He is a champion for innovation and is passionate about building technology to help contractors run better businesses. He has an Engineering degree from Purdue University and a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Richmond. He is also the Founder and CEO of Groundwork, a video-based sales system for landscaping contractors and other residential trade businesses.