Today, we’re asking a question that wouldn’t have even made sense only a decade ago. Is it possible to run a field service without a physical storefront? The technology now exists that would allow professionals in many industries to do just that. It’s still a risky option, but if your business is compatible it could mean eliminating one of your most significant expenses. That may be a competitive edge you need.
Examining the Need
The question “could you go completely mobile?” demands the equally-important question “why would you?” But in response to that, let’s examine some of the ways that the role of storefronts has diminished in modern times.
According to researchers at BIA/Kelsey Institute, 97% of Americans use an online search before choosing local businesses. A large percentage of those polled used that search to find reviews that they used to determine their choice. What this reveals is that virtually all consumers have made up their mind about who they’re hiring before the even walk out the door.
For this reason, storefronts can no longer be relied upon to draw customers. Now your online presence determines the amount of attention you get almost entirely. Storefronts can be used for much more than drawing customers of course, but the businesses that can live without them may have a life-saving strategy in reserve for the lean times.
However, whether you can live without one depends on a lot of factors.
Business Model
If you frequently meet with customers, then going fully mobile may not be for you. However, it can be a great option when your customer always expects you to come to them. That’s the model for many field service businesses including plumbers and other repair professionals.
Equipment
Going mobile works best for professionals who can fit the equipment they need into the back of a van. Maid services, IT services, appliance repair services and cleaning services are all great candidates for going completely mobile. If you are worried about additional storage space you may need, consider how much money you could save renting storage instead of a storefront.
Employees
Going mobile works best for lone wolf operations, or operations where the employees all manage their own trucks. If you have more than a few employees, this is something you want to consider very carefully. Some people will operate really well without a headquarters, and others won’t.
Experiment to Measure Your Needs
It’s fortunately not too difficult to find out if your business is compatible with complete mobility. The easiest way is to start measuring your foot traffic. If it’s negligible, you may want to start by closing the storefront to the public for a short time, while still taking calls as normal.
If you find that customers aren’t bothered by an inaccessible storefront, you know that you’ve got a chance. Remember that mobility is very dependent on modern technology. Makes sure you have tools in place to manage your team, respond to customers, and handle invoices.
The post Could You Go 100% Mobile? Modern Field Service without a Storefront appeared first on Mhelpdesk.