Water Well Journal
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/465664
you need to make multiple visits to their home to do costly tests or install expensive equipment. A key is to set expectations with your customers upfront. "Let them know the treatment works most of the time, but sometimes it doesn't," Krause says. "If something does go wrong, then people are somewhat expecting it." Also consider a step-by-step approach. Try the least expen- sive effective method first and build on it if it doesn't take care of the problem. "If treatment works the first time, it's a huge win," Krause says. "But if you have to build on it, then that's expected. People are really happy because they realize we could be going further, and it could be more expensive. Because we're doing it in a progressive manner, the customer feels like we're saving them money." Because it can be difficult to know everything, be honest about what you know—and what you don't. Keeping good records is a must. That includes all water tests you've performed. When a customer calls Swain with a water quality com- plaint, he can show the customer how the water quality has changed and why additional treatment or a different treatment method may be needed. "You can show them the water test you took six months ago and the water test you took six months later," Swain is saying. "If the tests don't mirror each other, it can show the customer how their water quality has changed, and you can explain you didn't catch it the first time because the initial tests didn't show it." In the end, it's keeping the lines of communication open that's the key to being successful in water treatment. "You think what you want to know is the technical stuff," Krause says. "But most of the contractors I've seen really suc- ceed in water treatment is because of how they communicate with people." So if you're willing to learn about treatment and have the patience to troubleshoot issues, water treatment can be a prof- itable addition to your business. "Water treatment can be challenging, but it's very reward- ing," Swain says. "We're not just drilling wells. We're providing families with great water." WWJ Jennifer Strawn was the associate editor of Water Well Journal from 2004 to 2007. She is currently in the internal communications department at Nationwide in Columbus, Ohio. She can be reached at strawnj2 @gmail.com. DACUM Codes This article covers the following skills for drilling operators (DO) and pump installers (PI). DOA-1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7; DOB-1, 4, 5, 7; DOF-1, 2, 5; DOJ-8; DOK-5; DOL-1, 9, 11; PIA-3, 4, 5, 6; PIC-1; PIE-18, 21, 22; PIF-1, 2, 8; PIG-7, 8, 11, 12 National Groundwater Awareness Week Promote the resource that provides your livelihood! Educate your customers about the importance of annual water testing and well maintenance during National Groundwater Awareness Week, March 8-14, 2015. You will be helping them, yourself, your business, your industry, and the resource. NGWA is here to help you spread the word! From sample letters-to-the-editor and radio spots to print ads, posters, and iers, NGWA has materials for you to use. www.NGWA.org/AwarenessWeek 800 551.7379 • 614 898.7791 Twitter @WaterWellJournl WWJ March 2015 19