Being the master of your own destiny is an exciting prospect but going it alone brings with it a number of considerations not normally on the radar of someone who enjoys a set job description of being an employee at a company.
But now help is at hand for plumbing and heating installers to grow their own businesses. Leading plumbers’ merchant, Bassetts has launched Turning Pro, a new support scheme that will give businesses additional tools such as a credit account, networking events, marketing support and general support and guidance. While it is aimed at those who have just started their own business or those considering taking the leap into self-employment, the Turning Pro service is also available to existing customers.
One of the first to sign up for the scheme is Stephen Bristow from Dungannon, Co Tyrone who launched his own business, SB Plumbing & Heating 10 months ago. “I used to work for various companies but last year decided to go out on my own,” said Stephen.
“The help and support I have received from Bassetts has been invaluable. I have always had a great relationship with the company but this initiative has taken it to a new level. “They have been a great support to me as I grow my business. I have had to think about things such as marketing and social media strategies which, quite frankly, were totally alien to me.”
Stephen has been receiving marketing advice from Bassetts Digital & Marketing Manager, Michelle Carolan. “Michelle has shown me the direction I need to be going in – when I worked for other companies I never needed to think about advertising on social media, I am a hands-on guy not someone used to sitting behind a computer,” said Stephen.
“But it has been brilliant to have Michelle at the end of the phone. I can also call upon other people at Bassetts for advice on products or installation or indeed any other information I may need. “I am glad I have taken the jump to go out on my own. In the early days a lot of money goes out before you can start to reap the benefits and I am glad to have the support of Bassetts. “I am certainly looking to the future with confidence.”
Included within the Turning Pro service:
- A dedicated contact within your local branch.
- Marketing consultation (limited to one-hour free support worth £80).
- Contacts to help you develop your business.
- Bassetts credit account (subject to acceptance).
- Exclusive access to Bassetts deals and Bassetts brands.
- Networking events throughout the year.
In addition, customers can also avail of the services already in place, including access to the technical team, full quotations and system drawings. Alan Wright, Managing Director of Bassetts, explained, “We have a long history of helping and supporting businesses to grow and develop. In fact, many of our long-term customers started off as ‘one man in a van’ and have grown their businesses into becoming major contractors. “Turning Pro is simply an extension of the support we already offer our customers and it is about giving them the tools to succeed.”
One of the key services is support and guidance on successfully marketing your business. From providing business cards through to advice on how to set up social media platforms or to create a digital marketing strategy, the consultation is delivered by an expert marketing professional.
To avail of Turning Pro all you need to do is have been trading for six months or longer; be currently installing and complying to the relevant British standards; have at least £1million in public liability insurance; and be currently or interested in using Bassetts’ products within your plumbing and heating business. Alan added, “We have an extensive product range, we offer competitive pricing and have knowledgeable and helpful staff so we’re perfectly positioned to help customers grow their business.
“Going that extra mile for customers is ingrained in our philosophy and has been the reason why we have been able to expand and grow. Through Turning Pro we’re giving customers a helping hand and a support system that will help them do the same.”
For further information on how to avail of the Turning Pro initiative, speak to your local branch manager. For further information, visit www.bassettsonline.com or telephone 028 3833 9438.
HEAD OFFICE: 4 Mahon Industrial Estate, Portadown, BT62 3EH
T: 028 3833 9438
E: info@bassettsonline.com
W: bassettsonline.co.uk
