11/01/2025
Hey friends! I would like to get your feedback on something and I apologize in advance if this comes across like an indirect sales pitch. I promise that isn't my intent.
I've been offering membership plans for about a year now. I had enough people express interest in them that I eventually invested into a system that allowed me to do so and keep track of them for me. My primary goal was to be able to offer it since I had requests and to have it designed so that it really is a good value. I didn't design them with profit building in mind.
If you know me and have had me to your home, you may know that I don't believe in high pressure sales tactics. I do believe in presenting options, as applicable, so that customers may make informed decisions, but I never want to come across as being pushy or trying to sell something that isn't needed. As a result, I don't always mention the membership plan when I price jobs.
One of the perks is 15% off of all work, so if the job in question is a large one, the customer will net a lower price if they purchase the plan. For instance, I had 2 sign ons last week because when I replaced water heaters, the end price was about $200 cheaper even with the membership plan fee. I always present the option for the plan on jobs like this because I think it would be in the customer's immediate best interest to sign on. Those are easy to do as I don't feel like I'm coming across as pushing any kind of sales. However, on smaller jobs where signing on wouldn't net an immediate savings after the cost of the membership plan, I often don't present it because, again, I'm worried about coming across as pushy and like I'm trying to run up the bill.
So here is my situation and where I would really value your feedback as customers and fans of my business:
If I were doing a small job for you, one that the membership plan would not add up to an immediate cost savings, would you still want to be presented with the option for it? I do feel there is still value with the plan because it includes an annual visit where I check over the plumbing system and it does offer discounted service, which would possibly add to to be in the customer's favor if called out again in the year, even if it doesn't immediately add up to savings on the initial visit/plan purchase. I wouldn't push for it (I never do; it's simply an option), but, again, I wonder if it would come across as if I am trying to increase rates/be a sleazy salesman. At the same time, I'm not super comfortable denying the option to even consider it as some may be interested.
Thank you for reading this, for understanding where I am coming from, and for your honest feedback. It's super helpful! -Peter
