Why I Never Call Myself A Handyman | THE HANDYMAN BUSINESS |

[@hofy3393]

Always remember this saying! "My prices are based on my skill and knowledge, not your budget."

[@homemadefood7197]

Thats what i tell my coustomers . Im an ac and appliance tech

[@thuglivintv824]

@@homemadefood7197 what do they respond to that? lol

[@homemadefood7197]

@@thuglivintv824 nothing they just pay up ....

[@comancheclub3449]

Bro. . Wow. Getting a laser so I can permanently burn this into my brain. Never heard it put like that before.

[@goodnamesareallgone1]

I like that! Thank you.

[@For891]

Wow! I thought I was alone. This is exactly my business model. My potential clients think their vetting me when in fact I’m vetting them. You have to be able to walk away when something about a potential job doesn’t feel right. My gut rarely lets me down .

[@MtlCstr]

In defense of "tire kickers," sometimes you just don't know what you don't know, and if you don't ask you'll never know.

[@MJ-fh8fw]

Tire kickers, put them to work a little bit before you spend your time with them. Mud room...send me 3 pictures of stuff you like and why you like those designs, ask them for rough measurements. It has been my experience if possible customers have any knowledge of what they want done and they have spent some time on it, they will also have an idea of what it's going to cost.

[@handymaninside]

Yeah you have to check their commitment level right away, or you crawl into the same hole with them like an idiot

[@danmohan1981]

This is a great tip. I often "screen" potential customers by asking them to do a little work before we meet. If they'll put some effort in, it shows they are serious. HOWEVER, I also just count some of the 'tire kickers' or 'lost sales' as part of my overhead. I've been doing it long enough that I know I'm going to lose about 50% of the jobs I bid. My wife owns a home bakery... I had to educate her to the fact of, "If you're getting every job you bid, your prices are too low."

[@danmohan1981]

@DR PHIL I've found that to be true as well. Depending on your kind of business, it is often worthwhile to entertain the tire-kickers. It's not good in the short term, but those folks remember that you treated them well even though they didn't buy anything... when the do have the money, or after they've been burned by someone else, these folks can become very loyal customers.

[@MLDuffy]

I used to work for a guy making faux antique furniture in a big city for rich/educated clients. I learned a lot from him but 2 things that I think apply to businesses like this were big: 1) he had a 20% "a-hole tax"- if he got the impression dealing with a client was going to be a hassle he'd automatically charge a lot more to scare them off (or blunt the burden with $). And 2) he drove himself for word of mouth- I remember shoveling a client's driveway after a big snowstorm because she had bought two chairs from him and he wanted to take care of her. The referral business -ahem- snowballs after something like that. Oh, and he used to tell haggling designers/decorators all the time to got to IKEA (he genuinely liked their designs).

[@dimitrig3739]

Hey, great points made in this video. Word of mouth is the best way to go. I personally veer away from online referral programs. I have friends in the industry that swear by them, yet they always complain about going and dealing with "Tire Kickers". On a side note, I call them Hamatzithes (Ha-Ma-Tzi-Thes). "How much is this, how much is that." If I can get into the customer's home and have them be comfortable with me, the service is sold. Never give costs over the phone, and never give exact prices. Give them ballpark prices, explain potential issues that can arrise, and when you hit somewhere in the middle and not the max, they tend to be grateful!

[@twosencefromcleveland6084]

I am an "Interior Surface Specialist" Or drywall guy. Oh, the reason people ask for bids sometimes is to beg a diagram, or parts list so that they can give it to Billy-Bob who is going to do the work. I have wasted days sometimes bidding a project and the customer invariably asks "How many sheets of drywall?" or how many 2x4s? I always reply pleasantly, "I'll be bringing enough to complete the job." They never call back. You are spot-on about the type of customer who will gravitate to you by references.

[@michaeldalton8374]

$75 estimates. If we mutually agree to the project, I’ll credit the 75 to the bill. That kills the time wasters.

[@Theredeemedchild2]

I may adopt this.

[@austinkelley5614]

Exactly this. Especially if you can write out a thorough plan of action

[@YoungGirlz8463]

boom

[@bearlemke]

My 20$ estimates do that :)

[@douglasclausen8155]

Old boss hit them up for a hundred bucks. He would credit it back if they signed. If they asked he would tell them he charged 100/hour go any of his call up services not on a project. The van was paid 100/day. Workers were paid what ever but there was always 2 people in a van and one had to sit doing nothing on the clock during estimates.

[@plasticman1723]

You dont call yourself a handyman but your youtube channel is The HANDYMAN.......

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

It is just a social media brand name. It does very well.

[@fernandochavez4312]

J. Hanna confuses me too. No shame in being a handy person.

[@grahamworksconstruction]

@@TheHandymanBusiness VERY (VERY)WELL. But the skill oozes out of ya.

[@anthonystrait428]

I’ll start by saying there’s nothing wrong with being a “handy man”. But some of us have an abundance of knowledge and skills and may take offense to being called a handyman. It’s like calling a master plumber a pipe fitter. It all comes down to self worth.

[@kendricklefleur6235]

@@TheHandymanBusiness )/1

[@jdshear01]

Thanks Handyman, this is a motivating video that really cuts to the thick of why you do what you do and why you hit so hard at your goals. Most people don't have goals which is a major failure for a life strategy up front...but you've clearly defined where you want to be and you are driving it home. All the best, love your strategies! You're giving people gold, this is not a crack pot theory but proven strategy.

[@BugarMaster]

He said he doesn't call himself a handyman, yet you call him Handyman.

[@lawrencefieselman3803]

I ran across your channel yesterday and I want to thank you for what you do and how you do it. I grew up not knowing how to turn a wrench. Over the years I've learned to do things (built fences, pergolas, gates, a playhouse for my girls, etc.) and its because of guys like you who are willing to share your knowledge. I had to laugh when you said you received negative comments for using adjustable pliers from Harbor Freight and older DeWalt drills.Good tools help but its the craftsman behind the tools that gets the job done. Keep up the good work!!

[@slappymcface5681]

I’ve experimented with some “titles” and have landed on “The To-Do List Man.” I didn’t want to accidentally market myself over my capabilities. I do small jobs that usually take under two hours. Patch dry wall, install a fan, garbage disposal, I do A LOT of dagum towel racks, leaky faucets. It’s typical to do list stuff that you don’t want to do. When my business had “handyman” attached to it I had to refuse a lot of work because I would get calls for kitchen remodels and new decks, had a guy ask me to quote the removal and pouring of a new driveway and garage floor...and I’m a guy with a handheld toolbox in the front seat of a 20 year old truck (no beer or cigarettes)

[@jacoblarsen6227]

I've found working on my own personal properties building huge equity positions renting and refinancing to be way way more profitable and enjoyable than fixing other peoples houses. No estimates no customers just working at my own pace with as much freedom as I please. Real state investing for the win

[@wylian84]

My goal.

[@ryanpeters567]

Mine too

[@717UT]

I'd love to break into personal rental property.... Young and no idea where to start

[@christophercrawford2736]

Max Federle same

[@christophercrawford2736]

How old are you? I’m 27.

[@ryguy898]

6:25 "For a long stretch of time, its (handyman) been a drunk. Its just it. Missing teeth, pony tail, smells like cigarettes and has a solo cup full of warm bud light in the cup holder of his truck." Hysterical and dead on.

[@tylerross5613]

You forgot an unreasonable amount of dog hair everywhere and the stained mustache!

[@dixiehandyman]

I don't drink but my truck has some rust and I have a magnetic sign! Lol.

[@thuglivintv824]

What’s wrong with magnetic signs lol

[@glasshalffull8625]

He kinda hurt my feelings 😢

[@jeffshackleford3152]

I deal with the "OMG I didn't realize cabinets were so expensive" thing all the time... Most people have no idea what it takes to put together a set of cabinets... Explain your process, ask them rough dimensions (never trust homeowner measurements), and say it will cost $100 to get on the schedule, which is credited at the end of the job. If you need any help figuring out the cabinetry let me know.

[@marilynwong9784]

I’m a freelance gynecologist, so I guess you could call me a handsy man.

[@Stoneforth]

yes

[@petepistachio8229]

Well played.

[@johnguilbert1349]

Brilliant

[@JC-DC]

I have been wearing a blue surgical mask for 7 months. What type of medical professional am I qualified to claim to be now? 😷😷🤔

[@SNORKYMEDIA]

"I'm not a gynecologist but I'll take a look"

[@Aepek]

As crazy as this seems in today’s world, but I don’t have a Facebook acct, personal or business. I also don’t have a business website. Changed old KZbin acct to my new one (haven’t posted a vid yet), but do have IG & Twitter accts for ppl to contact me if that’s their thing. Otherwise, it’s from referrals for most part. When I found out back in 2005 that spent 25k in billboards alone, & not counting ads or other marketing outlets & then finding out that only 1% of the money I received was from those “advertisements”; & the other 99% was word of mouth & referrals.....I quit advertising, as it wasn’t worth it for me. Thx for the talk, like the talks you have with us, even though some may find them boring; I enjoy listening to your experience & “wisdom”....cuz u can always learn! Cheers✌🏼

[@whammabamma]

I did this kind of work years ago. Learned a lot from my father who was an old school do it yourself kind of man (engineer by training). He always told me never to price yourself cheaply. If you are the lowest cost provider, people believe that you also provide low value. A skilled craftsman is worth his wage. I appreciate your channel and especially your insights into the business aspect of what you do.

[@MarkAlbert]

Love your reply: "Ikea is down the road!"

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

Thanks for all the questions. I'm getting caught up on all the Patreon questions. Here is the link www.patreon.com/thehandyman

[@MikeYeah]

My jack of all trades residential and commercial services maintenance/repairs/upgrades business is called Pack o' Jacks handyman services. I have always felt bugged by handyman instead of GC, etc. Still working on that.

[@blingblingg31]

Having watched allot of your video's and find them enjoyable and informative as a diy guy. But today having watched this video and listening to the story on you fixing the boat and camper which removed the enjoyment from them... clicked home ... for me this translates to "get a better paying job and pay some one to do the work". Thank you .

[@gryfon10]

I graduated from a 4 apprenticeship 6 years ago as a tool and die maker but I never call myself a Toolmaker. Some of the "old timers" I work with can do some real magic and if I gave myself the title that they have, what does that make them? Maybe someday I'll be a "Toolmaker," but for now I'm an "graduated apprentice" with some things to learn.

[@bp7770]

So your a journeyman

[@Overfl00d]

Hahahaha, your "Drunk, rusted out F-150, missing exhaust, pony tail, smells like cigarettes" made me laugh.

[@JaketheRake16]

I left a meeting two days ago where this couple took me through all 3 of their bathrooms and wanted all inserts torn out with new tubs and tiled showers and they also wanted a new deck, covered, and then screened in and when I inquired about their budget they told me they had $3000 to spend.

[@JonnyDIY]

Ohh boy 🤦‍♂️

[@jaymann53]

I paid more for one shower.

[@717UT]

Holy Lord..... Run with your hair on fire.

[@JonnyDIY]

6:24 Omg I know that Handyman! Wears stained white wife beaters and lives in a "converted" garage of a customers house that he trades for rent 😂👍🏻

[@denverintranslation]

Thank you for this! I’m in a bluegrass group and we put out albums and play shows at clubs and other venues for very little money all the time. We also play weddings and corporate events that generally pay somewhere between $5k-$10k depending on the booking. That’s our bread and butter. We find clients that have a lot of money, we play their event and we ask them to refer us to their rich friends. Unbelievable how many people want to pay a band $500 and a case of beer. We don’t even respond to those emails anymore.

[@kenklose]

Would love to see videos on your RV shopping process on the SSTC, tour some RVs tell us what's good, bad and ugly from your experience.

[@dontmove518]

I decided out of necessity(family needs) to work for myself. You inspired me to believe in myself. I’m not trying to get rich and right now I’m not charging much more than enough to get by. I’m 2 months in and I’m doing steady. I right away felt I didn’t want to identify as a “handyman” that’s just not who I am. I’m still determining what that is but my customers references have kept me busy. I lined up 9 days of work ahead of me this week and a total net gain of $1450 after materials and fuel. Not the big bucks but I’m not a welfare rat either.

[@MatLon28]

You can call yourself whatever but at the end of the day, you are the handyman

[@RICHat22]

Starting at 6:40, through 7:15. THAT is my business model. That's why you don't see my website, FB, or anything else up anymore. I don't advertise. I don't take new customers hardly ever. Unless I judge them as profitable and low maint. You don't jump into this and win at 20 yrs old. At 45, I mastered and duplicated that exactly 10 years ago on 10 May 2010. Good job and well done. Very much like you, I am NOT a mechanic. And correct people. I am a technician and a business owner that excels above most within a few counties. Ask around. :)

[@joen2566]

Great video! When I started out, I found asking specific questions about their project would tell me if they were serious or not. If they can't tell you what they are looking for, they probably aren't serious or can't afford it. You've mentioned in past videos "home service provider" and I've used that ever since. I'm also a remodel contractor but I'm trying to do smaller jobs.

[@markman63]

I like that, gonna use this term from now on.

[@zero1fifty8]

I work in the plumbing industry and it always amazes me some people's reaction when you give them a high estimate for a complete remodel or something to that affect. Like they were expecting you to work for free or something living in an alternate reality

[@KINGKUSHORLANDO]

same they think you are a hustler doesn't look at you as a professional.

[@crcurley]

Most useful video for so far, I’m not just a handyman. I’m a handy person that knows a lot of handy things that others don’t. I have learned and reenforced quite a bit bit from you and your videos.

[@adamv6753]

Also, asking a lot of questions on during the phone call helps a lot. See what step they are in the process and what their budget is. In my trade I always have them send me pictures and I give them estimates to see if its in their range or not. It saves both of us time. Best thing to do is be in the position where your time working for money is worth more than the money you make doing repairs.

[@benthehandyman9667]

Thanks Handyman for this video. You are so right with the title handyman I do run into this problem, and I do not have a cup of warm beer in my truck, and this did make me laugh. I love these business videos you always inspire me to work harder and also have started investing more. I make all my big stock decisions while drinking coffee from the most amazing mug ever. In conclusion great video!!!!!!!

[@typ044]

A lot of people in the trades forget that not everyone automatically knows the cost of everything, nothing wrong with being surprised or.deciding not to do it after finding out what it costs, it comes with the territory. Especially for custom builds, only way to find out is to get estimates. To many tradesman I meet think everything is supposed to revolve around them, crying if the job is difficult or if redundant make a months wages in 5 days. As long as the client isn't acting offended by my price or trying to talk me down I don't take it personally.

[@kyloren8236]

Handyman fighting for the rights and good name of the handyman!

[@sureshot311]

I loved this video. I'm not a handyman. But I take your information and apply it to my life to success. I look forward to seeing the other video on the ssc. Thank you!

[@RugbyNick6]

Working with people who are like minded and can afford your is great advice.

[@jesterraj]

"anything old is constant work" ...so true

[@funone8716]

Ya, you should see my wife.......

[@mmpatriot2170]

This hits a little too close to home. I recently bought an old camper trailer that needs a bunch of work. I might have been a bit buzzed when I went to look at it. I dragged it home and my partner took one look and said, “Babe, what have you done?” F’*k! Now I have to make it good or just admit I F’*k’d up and sell it at a loss. Or maybe pay someone to take it off my hands. 🙄

[@TokyoCraftsman]

I could not agree more. I call myself a Genera Contractor. I like the word Craftsman.

[@antoniopdiaz7]

Lol 😆 I was thinking of getting magnetic signs for my Ford Ranger. I also have "Handyman" in my business title. My Ranger has an exhaust 😂 and I'm not a drunk. I find that smaller jobs bring in profits quicker than big projects. I never use shortcuts and always price for profits. If the customer doesn't like my price I keep it movin 👋 I don't negotiate my prices. When a customer tries to negotiate on the work it's a big red flag and they should be avoided asap.

[@vazfx16]

You are speaking the truth on socio economic judgements, biases and realities…harsh realities

[@justinboisvert9434]

From the perspective of a homeowner, I am not keen on being obliged to hire someone for a job just because they provide an estimate...BUT, I am also willing to pay for their time to provide that estimate. From the perspective of a service provider, I ran a student painter franchise in university and we provided free estimates; I probably spent over 100 hours giving estimates that didn't lead to jobs, so I understand the frustration around "tire kickers".

[@mcc124]

They’re called AWOT. A what? A waste of time

[@biggest23]

In my part of New Zealand they fall under the generic term ‘’WOFTAM’’ ......’waste of f***ing time and money’. Among others, we also call spirit levels ‘fish farts’ tubes of silicone ‘gorilla snot’ and architects plans ‘comics’..... Inventing catchy names & terms really is part of the unrecognized fun of being a spanner swinging, knuckle skinner.

[@jimmyt5241]

I been getting alot of customers lately like today that have 150 acres a vanderbuilt nastaligia to there propertys , they pay my hourly rate for 3 men and they let me and my right hand man use there tractors and machines to be more efficient, thats my kind of customer must have a pond to fish in for paid lunch for 30mins and or golf course gated community ! i love it beendriving them diesel mules like a 4x4 golf cart tractors excavators it really makes tree and landscaping way more fun!

[@AJourneyOfYourSoul]

I don’t work with customers who have only one goal, to find the absolute lowest price. Nothing but a waste of your time.

[@fatdiesel44]

I too call them tire kickers. Your philosophy and mine about customers, mesh.

[@understructurerepair7132]

I'm learning a lot. Most of what I'm learning is reaffirming that I'm doing things right. I'm five years old and I have built a referral source through existing clients. I rarely have REPEAT business, but I do. A referral is Golden. I treat a referral like Gold even if I don't get the business. But I think I lost a GREAT real estate husband and wife last month. I saw one of their referrals in October of Last Year and gave them a price. I got back "Thanks, we will call you when we are ready" . They called 11 months later and wanted it YESTERDAY. I was backed up a month and I had another contract come in before I could even remember who this lady was. Well, then it was out five weeks and if I had done the job without any unforeseen problems (and they seemed like the problem type) I would have lost a minimum of $350. I sent her a real nice email and maybe if she had sent something back, well who knows. I haven't heard from the real estate couple since. But, I didn't take on a bad client. Been selling something to homeowners since 1984 and I am 2500-0 for judging character. I don't charge enough and I could grow although I know sales but not marketing. I like no stress. It's hard work. Don't need stress too. Good videos here

[@jerryevans930]

Tire kickers, in California, are also called frugal shoppers, cheap skates, time wasters, etc

[@ziurim]

What do you use for the phone? I bought a Motorola Z2 Force with shatterproof screen over 2 years. I dropped it hundreds of times even two stories high. Served well and still working. Looking to get a replacement soon thats very durable phone that can survive drops. Thank you, Justin

[@Jarlsh]

Ironically this summer I sold my 1986 Supra boat, bought a 26 ft camper, and restarted my specialty contracting LLC. Have over 20 years in skilled trades, fix/build anything. Could never charge enough from friends and family to make it sustainable. Currently working on several houses for owner of a realty company, and working on referral jobs from her. Learning to make money on smaller jobs isn’t easy. Great advice in this video to avoid tire kickers.

[@martyvanord984]

LOL in the NYC area handyman is used by a certain kind of person who wants top quality work at as you say drunk pricing. As you say they place no value on your time and will shop for years. They do go down the as a friend just give me a low price road.

[@lukebrown4184]

I will stick with the “handyman” title, because I do everything, and I know many professionals in all the trades that are actually masters of their individual craft, so I know I’m not a carpenter, electrician, plumber etc... etc... Though I do have all my teeth.

[@bigdbob7929]

Master of nothing, good at everything..., That's not bad

[@ChrisSilverman]

This is great; 😆 so funny. I love the handyman description 6:24

[@clarencemaples1701]

I would never stoop so low as to put my precious beer in a solo cup. I leave it in the can like the good lord intended it.

[@fernandochavez4312]

If you catch a fish every time you put your hook in the water, is it still fishing?

[@40sUphillBothWays]

My cards: Home Remod & Install (thought about Home Badassery) I was trying to start a movement away from "handyman." Tooting my own horn, but I think it's modern and professional-so, copy and paste!

[@jstu45]

Every job starts out as an estimate...shoot a ballpark number over the phone and tell them the price will change when I actually look at job

[@DaUhuMan]

Just found your channel and you sound so much like me, wait a minute and let me explain, haven't printed a business card ever, live in Maui Hawaii, (very expressive to live here) have been doing it for over 30 years, I have a few customers on retainer, a few for over 20 years (they want to relay on my services when in need) I don't have a youtube channel not even a website, still get to go spearfishing, surfing when I want. I'll be in touch you have a lot of wisdom, What I called my business With a"C" Craftsman services.

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

Thats awesome. My wife and I stay in South Kihei a lot. We were there this past February just as the Coron started up. I always wondered what it would be like to live there. We will be back in 2022.

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

Do you watch both my channels? This is my 2nd one My main channel is right here kzbin.info/door/tXVIqkc3iBk0bV5gvcNWgw

[@joekool5005]

Never thought about it but I don't have handyman on my business cards either!

[@gkt1970]

So, you are actually a Licensed General Contractor that does Handy man work. Would that be accurate description? Because I think people get confused between you doing Handy man jobs that are limited in price & work as apposed to a General contractor that can do anything.

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

In most places in the USA A handyman is NOT regulated to a price of job or work. I'm a contractor that does contractor work. Once in a while I do home repairs that would fall under handyman type work. Only cities Run by democrats have those handyman regulations.

[@watkinsdb]

I love it. All my "handyman" stuff is referral only. Webs and other are strictly for restoration geared toward insurance paid restoration, and hire outs from other contractors in that industry. I'm around 50/50 on profit from each. You're a madman in a good way. Keep up the good work.

[@mechengineer-sv2ei]

Only problem I see with just buying a new camper is that in 5 years or so it will just develop another leak that requires your time. They all do. The manufacturers of campers these days might as well be the rejects of the mobile home world. I think the best way to prolong the camper would be to store it in a climate-controlled garage when not in use.

[@billyz271]

Call me what you want if the pay is right lol

[@adautomendes3373]

I drive an old f150 with a magnetic sign. You have what you can, I have a good clientele and they are not looking at my truck, but at my work. Handyman I am!!

[@grant3226]

Completely agree, as a tradesman Ive been doing repairs for a rental company, they originally wanted "handyman" pricing and balked at the high cost but soon realised the quality of the work outshone previous handymen they've had. Pay for what you get. I have Furniture and Cabinetry in my business title.

[@TerrydeAlaska]

Do you have a link to the camber build?

[@papidoo1931]

“Gotta leave a little blood on every project”

[@hughbrackett343]

My brother says, "The blood shows your commitment."

[@matthewmcbride1379]

Thanks to you I fixed my squeaky floor. Thanks Handyman.

[@randywl8925]

When I have a new customer I always make a point of casually mentioning to them that I treat my work on their home as if it was mine and I'm not going to leave till I'm satisfied with my own work. I know that if I'm happy, you'll be happy. If without bragging you can still confidence in the customer, that is key. Once the job is completed and you live up to their expectations.... you will never waste your money by another business card. Personally, I will lose my ass financially on a job before doing inferior work. Even when you screw up on a bid you have to follow through.

[@derekh3577]

Do you still have the circular saw T shirts available?

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

Not yet.

[@hansjensen7823]

Hi Handyman- it’s interesting that you talk about travel trailers and the stock market in the same video. I have doubled my money in two months with Camping World CWH. Another good one is Winnebago WGO. coincidentally I also have DIS.

[@abrahamlincoln6619]

I have a 98 Chevy. I've built the crap out of it and still have the engine, trans, drivekine and transfer case. Literally everything else other than the fuel pump has been fixed and replaced. I think I spent 4,500 in parts just this year alone to rebuild the entire brake system, steering and suspension. It sounded like a great project at first but now I have nightmares about it.

[@hotstep777]

Cool story bro

[@mhphotography08]

Solid advice. please keep sharing.

[@markfisher2224]

I have most of my teeth and don't drink may be in denial about rust on my truck but I like working with my hands and helping people.

[@tombarker2369]

I love it. I have this attitude when it comes to eating--

[@Theguy19899]

I hear you say general concractor a lot. Do you actually have a general contractors license?

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

Yes.

[@patrickhayes3099]

Tire kickers don't want to waste your time, though they are likely unaware of the time suck they create. I call them lookie loos.......

[@russpeaknuckel9525]

Going to give tire kickers estimates is ok. It gives you more experience. You will probably realize that you bid too low anyway, I learned whatever I think it will cost, double it !

[@jcgalmiche8352]

The way you avoid it is by being referral only.My business is also referral only and it's for a reason.No website ,no craigslist

[@jamesnewsom5899]

God! I love the rusted out F-150 with a magnetic sign on the side! Yeah, don't want to be identified with that image ever! My business is doing great. Word of mouth, good customers like you describe. Still struggle with how to label myself. 30+ years electrical contracting, expanded to all types of technical home services, from doors, locksets, appliance installations, water heater services, etc. What am I?

[@MrRaptorman1975]

It is very true that people are friends with like minded people. However, it's easy to weed out tire kickers by qualifying over the phone. The best question is what is your budget for this project. If they say they don't know, throw a ridiculous number at them. They will immediately do one of three things and all three will tell you where they are with price. They will say that you are too high, what they were thinking or ask more questions (what that price includes).

[@roamershaker]

i would like to know what are those slip on boots you wear. thanks

[@cokeefe28]

We called them strokers. They stroke you for information

[@Flamingorr]

Yeah mean it’s been a while look at your beard! Hahah good to see you man !

[@jeffbeach4132]

Can you share what the boxes fans/filter contraption is behind you? Im curious.

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

sucks up dust into the filters.

[@flowers9933]

Best way to kill a tire-kicker as you call it is to pre-qualify the customer. Listen to what they want, then say "Mrs. Jones that sounds like a great project, I believe that would be around XXXX.XX if that fits your budget I would be glad to set a time to come and talk with you guys. "Handyman" is a very cool word and is a great description of what most of us do. (EVERYTHING) I have BookaHandymanNow.com domain and push it as a way to contact us. IF you are going to grow your business you will have to reach beyond word of mouth. I did word of mouth for 16 years, then had family that needed to work so I had to grow fast. So I did all i could to open up leads. That's where I learned to Pre-Qualify them. Best to you but there are many ways to skin a cat, and you must do what works for you.

[@AaronCo29]

On the name, Handyman, I as well am not a handyman, but people started calling me that, and I would correct them as fast as they called me that, I would also explain it to them, the very same way as you did. If you are good at it, it doesn't matter what you call yourself, "Bob's Do It All", the word will spread, eventually. Do good work, learn what you can about it all, DO GOOD WORK! Be Honest, almost to a fault. This is what it takes to make it in this business.

[@trekp1]

Thanks for your videos man, I appreciate you.

[@OU81TWO]

What's you target for a profitable week after expense. For example you work 40 hours with $3K, $5K, $10K in your pocket after expenses?

[@jerryevans930]

Vetting potential customers is vital to filter out those who are not sufficiently funded and a good fit for one's business model.

[@kimsmoke17]

The soap you shower with is classified as a detergent. Thank you, blessed-be it is. No soap scum. Thank you.

[@robhaggard4766]

You got something against rusted out F-150’s? 🤷‍♂️😉

[@RICHat22]

I have something against all F-150's. Even new ones. LOL

[@abrahamlincoln6619]

I can't wait till I qualify for my gen contractor. I only ever worked under the table in construction so I wasn't able to prove my hours to the state. Once I get 2 years as a handyman under my belt I can apply for my general. I would much rather call myself a contractor than a handyman. plus the Handyman license puts a lot of restrictions on what I can and cannot do.

[@RiseSteadyNC]

What state do you live in? In NC you just take a test and pay 75-125 dollars

[@jomoral17]

thats why you dont post the free estimate posting....chatge at least 20 or 30 for across the city drives....

[@raysi7691]

I'm a Carpenter and joiner but I've work as a handyman for loads friends but as friends they try to get discount prices even though they can afford pay

[@themueth]

What's the hanging double fan ?

[@TheHandymanBusiness]

filters dust out of the air.