What does it take for a small business to achieve success? Whether you’re already in business, or preparing to start a business, it takes hard work, tenacity and drive to achieve a high level of success. Lori Greiner, star shark of ABC’s Shark Tank says, “Entrepreneurs are willing to work 80 hours a week to avoid working 40 hours a … Read More
How to Overcome Price Resistance and Make a Profit
Like any good businesspeople, most pool and spa service providers try to do everything right. They hire service people with a good aptitude and attitude and give them distributor- and manufacturer-sponsored training. They promote their companies to the local community and make considerable investments in various marketing initiatives. Having put their best foot forward, a customer calls to make a … Read More
The Intricacies of Automated Chemical Controllers
Proper water balance in commercial pools and spas can be the difference between a safe, attractive facility and a disastrous one. Advances in chemical automation, disinfection methods, and better education on the problems associated with water chemistry have made the aquatic facility operator’s job easier when ensuring pool and spa water is safe for bathers. Oxidation reduction potential (ORP)/pH controllers … Read More
Embracing Green Technologies Can Make a Difference
Adopting a socially responsible approach to green initiatives can help take the pool and spa industry to the next level. By committing to sustainability strategies and embracing newer technologies, pool and spa professionals can pledge to change their attitudes toward waste reduction and develop an energy conservation plan, opening the doors to new revenue opportunities and a positive, “green” public image. … Read More
Educating Outdoor Workers on the Dangers of Sun Exposure
A new infographic released by Deb Group underlines the risk of skin cancer for outdoor workers, particularly those in construction, and offers best practices for protection. The company, which works to establish skincare regimens for all types of workplace and public environments, made the infographic available as part of its annual ‘Sun Protection for Outdoor Workers Campaign.’ The graphic explores … Read More
Outsourcing Specialized Labor: Why Professionals Are Subcontracting Automatic Pool Cover Services
Automatic pool covers are quickly becoming the preferred option in today’s marketplace. In addition to allowing homeowners to open and close their pools with ease, these covers offer an extra sense of safety and security when a pool is not in use. Unlike pumps and filters, however, the installation of an automatic cover varies from project to project. Thus, these … Read More
How to Train and Hire Temporary Employees
Certain things are inherent to the role of operating a business: meeting with vendors, picking out a POS system and, of course, hiring that all-important staff. But before an employee is deemed fit for face-to-face customer contact, or even to spend days logging inventory in the stock room, he or she must be trained in the ways of the store. … Read More
Selling the Idea of Less Work and More Fun
There has been a revolution in home technology gradually gathering momentum over the past 10 years. What started out as gadgetry for only the wealthiest or most technology-obsessed early adopters has steadily transformed into normal expectations for convenient living and peace of mind. Broadband penetration with lightning-fast speeds has now reached the majority of North American homes, meaning consumers can … Read More
Prevention Is Better Than Cure: A Good Maintenance Plan Can Avoid Pool and Spa Closures
The beauty of working in the aquatics industry is learning about all of the information and various components involved in the operation of a pool. It is a natural assumption that there is a hole in the ground and this perfect, pristine body of water is waiting to cool swimmers on a hot day. In actual fact, pool operation can … Read More
Mind the Gap: Strong Teams Are Built Through Communication and Understanding
While they have been around for years, millennials seem to be all the buzz in the workplace these days. What do millennials want in the workplace? What do they want from work in general? How are they different from other generations? And, the most common question this author has heard, how does one even communicate with millennials? To answer these … Read More