In Your Opinion...

[G & G Electric]

Starting out, we're going after the service market. I would prefer to go after contracts, not sure how, but that's another thread. Money is tight for everyone now, and am thinking the money could be better spent, or saved. But if a new van would pay for itself with advertising and appearance, then it could turn out to be a worthwhile, albeit painful, investment.

 

[steelersman]

Starting out, we're going after the service market. I would prefer to go after contracts, not sure how, but that's another thread. Money is tight for everyone now, and am thinking the money could be better spent, or saved. But if a new van would pay for itself with advertising and appearance, then it could turn out to be a worthwhile, albeit painful, investment.

I think you should be fine with what you have now. Leave it burgundy. Nothing wrong with that, although I prefer Black & Gold.

 

[Rewire]

I would say no to dropping your working capital on a vehicle as long as what you have is clean dry and servicable just spend a few dollars and have your company name put on the side of what you have.

 

[electricmanscott]

What's absurd is thinking you need a new truck to do electric work

Finally we agree on something.

 

[electricmanscott]

Starting out, we're going after the service market. I would prefer to go after contracts, not sure how, but that's another thread. Money is tight for everyone now, and am thinking the money could be better spent, or saved. But if a new van would pay for itself with advertising and appearance, then it could turn out to be a worthwhile, albeit painful, investment.

Appearance aside losing a truck to the repair shop can be very costly. Lost wages, ticked off customers etc. You are only making money if you are actually at the job.

Some disagree :grin: but I put a very high value on having a vehicle in top condition. I'd rank it's importance just under a license and insurance.

 

[electricmanscott]

When are you going to buy the greenhorn apprentice a new car so he can quit driving up to the job in his 88 Civic hatchback with the running rust and 300k miles on it??

Surely your apprentice is costing you jobs driving that turd out to the job!

Since you directed this at me I have a question for you. What the hell are you talking about?

 

[bradleyelectric]

After all we have said, I would use the truck you have as is. Figure out how to make the phone ring.

 

[John Davoltra]

Leave it alone...

Leave it alone...

ABSOLUTELY just drive your truck as is, with the addition of professional TECL nomenclature.($120.00 or less)

In short time your performance will precede you. If you truly please your clients, you will have no time and a lot of work stacked up. Then you buy the newer truck.

Remember that your income will be divided by 2. Don't make things more difficult in these unstable economic times by buying a truck now.. As long as oil prices don't drop further, Texas will be ok.

Don't work cheap. Either charge nothing or charge all. Hand out business cards EVERYWHERE. Meet people. Help people. Lady on side of road with flat tire, you stop and change it for her. This is what has gotten me by for over a decade on my own. With no partner.

Also heed the advice of others here. Partnerships usually don't work.

The age of your truck means NOTHING! Most people understand when a sound financial decision is being made. As long as your truck gets you to the job safely and is reliable- who cares?

Good luck from NE Texas.

 

[ohm]

ABSOLUTELY just drive your truck as is, with the addition of professional TECL nomenclature.($120.00 or less)

In short time your performance will precede you. If you truly please your clients, you will have no time and a lot of work stacked up. Then you buy the newer truck.

Remember that your income will be divided by 2. Don't make things more difficult in these unstable economic times by buying a truck now.. As long as oil prices don't drop further, Texas will be ok.

Don't work cheap. Either charge nothing or charge all. Hand out business cards EVERYWHERE. Meet people. Help people. Lady on side of road with flat tire, you stop and change it for her. This is what has gotten me by for over a decade on my own. With no partner.

Also heed the advice of others here. Partnerships usually don't work.

The age of your truck means NOTHING! Most people understand when a sound financial decision is being made. As long as your truck gets you to the job safely and is reliable- who cares?

Good luck from NE Texas.

Great advice...pinch the pennies, promote the business! I for one would support the guy with the old truck, trying to get started. Maurice

 

[dfair2009]

I found that referral work is best. Contact local hardware, building supply centers, and Spa stores. These places get alot of customers with questions and often new circuit needs and panel upgrades. Check out some chamber of commerce meetings for networking ideas. An evening or early morning might net you some good contacts and at least the chance to pass out cards for the price of a meal. Alot less expensive then paper advertising. Partnerships are dangerous, hire your friend so he will stay your friend.