I really can’t remember the last time a contractor left my house after doing some work WITHOUT a check or credit card payment in hand. So I’m perplexed that so many of our dealers are willing to fix or upgrade a subscriber’s security system, then leave the site without getting paid! Yes, it’s true that having ongoing recurring billing makes it easier for a subscriber to say ‘just bill me!’ But should you?
Resist the urge to say “Yes” to “just bill me,” and follow the lead of other businesses. In this day and age, it is easy to equip your techs with the service management tools to be able to a) close out the work order, b) create the invoice for the work, AND c) take payment for that invoice on the spot. In 2016, security alarm dealers don’t have to chase money. You did the work and deserve on-the-spot payment, like any other contractor.
Make Use of Technology
If you are using a cloud-based system, taking on-the-spot payment is easy. Your techs should be able to use a tablet or iPad to log into their work orders and/or service tickets. Once logged in they can quickly enter the inventory and labor hours used, and complete the ticket—including taking payment.
Even if you’re still on a paper-based system, you can still get on-the-spot payment. Give your techs price sheets covering your most commonly-used parts, along with a schedule of hourly rates. With a little training, they can do the math, present the invoice, and learn to get payment. You can equip techs with mobile apps like PayPal Here or Square to swipe credit cards. Another option is to have the tech take a check or an agreement to use the subscriber’s autopay information on file.
Using current technology, along with a little technician training, should allow you to get immediate payment, so your cash flows…rather than ebbs!