American Painting Contractor

Four Tips for Success

Picture of Kevin Hoffman

Kevin Hoffman

How to have happy customers, every time By Michal Cheney


Welcome to the world of professional painting, where we’re breaking the mold and setting new standards! In this article, we’ll dive into the four pillars that can transform your painting business from good to great: professionalism, craftsmanship, customer service, and safety. By mastering these elements, you’ll ensure every job is a TOP JOB.

We’ll show you how being a pro with your clients builds trust and satisfaction, why

top-notch craftsmanship keeps your work looking fantastic, how stellar customer service can leave a lasting impression, and why prioritizing safety is a game-changer for your team’s well-being and job performance.

Let’s paint a picture of excellence together, one brushstroke at a time! Professionalism and painting haven’t always been the best of friends, but that’s changing! Being professional with your clients is the secret sauce to building trust and satisfaction.

Start with clear communication: chat about the project details so you know exactly what they want and can provide a detailed estimate that leaves no room for guesswork. A precise estimate helps avoid misunderstandings and sets clear financial expectations. Keep your clients in the loop as the job progresses, and if there are progress payments needed, let them know right from the start.

Being transparent about the workflow, potential disruptions, and timeline makes clients feel involved and valued. By keeping communication open and providing details at every step, you show your reliability and build a professional relationship that can lead to repeat business and positive referrals. Knock it out of the park with professionalism from the get-go, and you’ll set the project up for success.

Craftsmanship is all about a painter’s skill, quality, and attention to detail. It means nailing those sharp, clean lines where colors meet, making sure every inch is covered, and keeping floors, windows, and fixtures paint-free. True craftsmanship shines through in a painter’s ability to keep a tidy work area, manage tools and materials efficiently, and leave the place spotless after the job is done. This dedication not only makes the paint job look amazing right away, but also ensures it stands the test of time.

High-quality craftsmanship uses top-notch materials and thorough application methods to create a finish that resists chipping, peeling, and fading. It’s this unwavering commitment to excellence that sets a master painter apart and brings lasting satisfaction to homeowners.

Let’s face it, customer service can sometimes miss the mark in the painting world, which means there’s a great opportunity to raise the bar for your business and the industry.

To “wow” your customers and leave a lasting impression, try a few thoughtful gestures. Providing touch-up paint in branded cans shows off your professionalism, and a color sheet detailing where each color was applied highlights your attention to detail.

Leaving a small gift—like a branded paint can filled with their favorite snacks—creates a delightful surprise that enhances their experience. Following up a few days later to ensure they’re thrilled with their newly painted space not only shows you care but also reinforces your commitment to exceptional service. And don’t forget the power of a handwritten thank-you card; in today’s digital age, it speaks volumes.

By incorporating these strategies, you can redefine customer expectations, foster loyalty, and set a new standard for excellence in the industry.

A serious fall or safety mishap can really throw a wrench in the works and put your team’s well-being at risk. That’s why making safety protocols a top priority is a must for everyone. Regular ladder safety training is key to keeping best practices fresh in everyone’s mind. Structured safety checks help keep the whole team vigilant and careful. Plus, it’s vital to educate workers on staying hydrated during hot days and to provide personal protective equipment (PPE) and fall prevention gear.

By building a comprehensive safety training program and encouraging open discussions about safety concerns, you create an environment where everyone feels secure and valued. This proactive approach boosts job performance and team morale, leading to successful, accident-free projects. Prioritizing safety shows your commitment to excellence and care.

In wrapping up, think of mastering professionalism, craftsmanship, customer service, and safety as the ultimate paint palette for your business—it’s how you turn every project into a true masterpiece. From that first client chat to the final touch-ups, these elements ensure each job is a TOP JOB. They’re your secret ingredients for building trust, showing off your skills, leaving a memorable impression, and keeping your team safe and happy.

Embrace these principles, elevate your game, and watch your reputation for quality and reliability paint a bright future for your business. Get ready to brush off the competition and create spaces that not only look great but also leave a lasting smile on every client’s face.

Michal Cheney, the visionary behind No Drip Painting (nodrippainting.com), is revolutionizing lives through the transformative power of paint. With an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the painting industry, she has spearheaded initiatives that provide a flourishing environment for women to excel. Through her remarkable Paint-It-Forward program, Michal and team show their generosity by giving back to the community. Above all, the company’s core value of kindness serves as a compass, guiding their every decision. Additionally, Michal serves as the host of the renowned industry podcast “Women In Paint” proudly featured on the PCA platform.

One Response

  1. Well written Michal, and all the strategies and behaviors are so on point. I’ve received 9 Top Jobs with APC since entering the painting world after leaving the world of teaching as a Physical Education teacher.
    APC has clearly helped me set my brand a a part in the painting world. My clients know that the compassion and attention to detail will be part of every painting project even if not featured in APC magazine. I’m currently a member of the Craftsmanship Forum and for the past 5 years we have been trying to rebrand with PCA and be that platform where craftsmanship is the focus of discussion and growth.