Curious how everyone is using AI in their business?
Are you using it for writing estimates? Social media? Customer emails? SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)? Marketing? Scheduling? Or something else? I've found AI has saved us hours every week by helping us create estimates, write customer emails, develop social media content, organize processes, and streamline our workflow. How has AI helped you personally and professionally? What's your favorite use case? I'm always looking for new ideas to make our business more efficient.How do you handle customer expectations when wild weather or scope creep throws off the schedule?
Hey Jobber Community! No matter how tight your schedule is, the unexpected always seems to happen—whether it’s a sudden mid-week storm, an equipment hiccup, or a job taking twice as long because of hidden issues. Keeping clients updated while keeping the rest of the week’s schedule on track can be a delicate balance. How do you handle schedule shifts with customers? Do you text automated updates as soon as a delay happens? Buffer built-in "flex hours" or dedicated catch-up days into your weekly schedule? Keep a strict communication rule before a certain time of day? Would love to hear how you keep client satisfaction high when the schedule gets wild!How do you handle clients who ask for "ballpark" pricing over the phone?
Hey community! Quick operational question. When a lead calls in or messages asking for a quick price before you can get photos or property measurements, how do you handle it? Do you give a wide range to filter them out, or do you strictly hold out until you have photos/measurements in hand? Curious to see how different shops handle the balance between speed and accuracy.Rejection Isn't the End—It's Proof You're Building Something Worth Fighting For
Every successful business owner has heard "no" more times than they can count. A declined grant, loan, or opportunity doesn't define your business—it reflects the reality that many great businesses compete for limited resources. The entrepreneurs who eventually break through are usually the ones who keep showing up. They improve their applications, strengthen their businesses, build relationships, and continue serving customers while everyone else waits for permission to succeed. REMEMBER: :: A grant is a tool, not your business plan. :: Progress doesn't stop because funding does. :: Every application makes you better at telling your story. Whether you were selected or not, take a moment to recognize how far you've already come. You had the courage to put your dream on paper and ask for an opportunity. That's something many people never do. Keep building. Keep applying. Keep improving. One "yes" can change everything, but only if you're still in the game when it comes.Phase 3 Preparation Tips for Jobber Grant Applicants
To everyone who may be advancing to Phase 3 of the Jobber Grants competition, congratulations on making it this far. The work you put in now can help your business long after this competition. Here are a few things I’d recommend focusing on: Review your full application and be ready to speak confidently about everything you submitted. Practice explaining your business in 30–60 seconds. Keep it simple, clear, and memorable. Know exactly how you would use the grant and the impact it would have on your business. Update your website, LinkedIn, and social media so your online presence reflects your business professionally. Refresh your business plan and make sure it reflects your latest progress and goals. Know your numbers—customers, revenue (if applicable), milestones, growth, and future goals. Practice answering questions out loud. Confidence comes from preparation and repetition. Be ready to explain what makes your business unique and why now is the right time for it. Organize your financial information and important business documents in case they’re needed. Create a simple one-page overview of your business that clearly explains your mission and vision. Gather testimonials, reviews, or customer feedback if you have them. Social proof adds credibility. Stay informed about your industry so you can confidently discuss current trends and opportunities. Build relationships with other founders. Networking often creates opportunities beyond this competition. Don’t memorize answers. Know your story well enough that your passion comes through naturally. Take care of yourself. Get enough rest, stay focused, and walk into every opportunity with confidence. Most importantly, act like you’ve already made it to Phase 3. Use this time to strengthen your business, improve your brand, and prepare for every opportunity ahead. Wishing everyone the best of luck. No matter who moves forward, keep building, keep learning, and keep believing in what you’re creating. Your next breakthrough could be closer than you think.
What’s your best approach for on-site add-ons without feeling "salesy"?
Hey pros, When you're on-site and notice additional work the property needs (cleaning, repair, or preventative maintenance), how do you typically bring it up to the homeowner? I’d love to know: Do you mention it while on-site, or do you follow up via Jobber quote with photos attached? What’s your highest-converting line or technique for introducing extra work naturally? What percentage of customers end up saying yes to the add-on? Drop your tips below—always looking to refine the on-site process!Electricians - Are you charging time & material or flat rate right now—and why?
Curious what’s actually working for everyone in today’s market with rising material costs and labor rates. Currently - I do time + material and then add in my overhead/profit % and I still get tons of kick back. Other big electricians in my area charge 3-4x the amount for something that I do and it works for them. I can't wrap my head around it.
