Talking Pools Podcast
Forget chasing chlorine headaches and battling algae wars alone. The Talking Pools Podcast is your weekly escape from pool purgatory, where 250+ years of combined pro wisdom explodes into actionable hacks, mind-blowing tips, and secrets so ancient they make Poseidon jealous.
Think of it as your weekly poolside braintrust, fueled by eight seasoned pros, each a rockstar in their own aquatic lane. Got a filtration fiasco? Chemical conundrum? Equipment enigma? No problem. We've got a host for that:
- The Tech Titan: Unravels the mysteries of pumps, filters, and gizmos that make pools tick (without the electrical shocks).
- The Chem Crusader: Your personal alchemist, whipping up potion-perfect water balance with a dash of science and a sprinkle of magic.
- The Maintenance Maverick: From tile tricks to algae assassins, he's got the lowdown on keeping your pool looking like a liquid emerald palace.
- The Customer Calmer: Smooths ruffled feathers faster than a pool noodle bouquet, turning hangry homeowners into poolside pals.
But Talking Pools isn't just about technical wizardry. It's about camaraderie, the shared language of pool pros who've seen it all, from exploding filters to synchronized swimming squirrels (no, really, we had an episode!).
Every week, you'll:
- Steal game-changing secrets: Learn pro-grade hacks to make you the "Pool Whisperer" in your market
- Laugh until you spit out your piña colada: These guys are as witty as they are wise, turning pool problems into poolside punchlines.
- Get ahead of the curve: Stay on top of industry trends and tech before your competitors even smell the chlorine.
- Feel the love (and the sunshine): Remember why you got into this business in the first place – the joy of creating backyard oases where memories are made.
So, ditch the Drano, grab your headphones, and dive into the Talking Pools Podcast. It's your weekly dose of poolside wisdom, laughter, and community. We'll see you on the flip side!
P.S. Subscribe now and you might just win a case of pool party essentials (floaties not included, sorry squirrels).
P.P.S. Tell your pool-loving friends – sharing knowledge is like sharing sunscreen, it protects everyone!
Talking Pools Podcast
Beyond Chlorine: Unleashing Radical Pool Care & Building a Brand Clients Love
In this Friday episode of Talking Pools Podcast, Rudy Stankowitz takes listeners through two important aspects of pool care that may seem unrelated but are essential to running a high-quality pool service business: advanced oxidation processes (AOP) and brand building.
Rudy begins with a deep dive into AOP, focusing on oxidative stress and radical scavenging as powerful sanitation tools. He highlights the role of hydroxyl radicals—microscopic but mighty cleaners that break down contaminants at a molecular level. Using UV light, hydrogen peroxide, or ozone, these radicals go beyond traditional chlorine, disassembling pollutants in pools, resulting in water purity that chlorine alone can't achieve. Rudy explains the science behind AOP, positioning it as an advanced, premium offering that pool service pros can leverage to stand out in their markets.
Then, he transitions to brand building, offering insightful advice on creating a memorable and enduring pool service brand. Rudy covers strategies for leaving a lasting impression on clients, from consistent, high-quality interactions to innovative loyalty programs, effective review management, and community engagement. He emphasizes that premium service, customer satisfaction, and transparent communication are the foundations of a sustainable, successful business.
With Rudy’s blend of humor and expertise, this episode provides pool pros with actionable insights into harnessing cutting-edge technology and refining their brand, ultimately offering clients a service experience that’s both scientifically advanced and reliably exceptional.
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CPO Certification Classes
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Rudy Stankowitz (00:01.266) Hey everybody, guess what day it is? It is Friday. End of the work week. So happy that you guys could be here with me today. Again, gonna talk about a couple of things that have nothing to do with one another, but they kind of do, they kind of don't. You know, it's your business. That's what it comes down to. And both are things that will help you in your business. If you're not already a master of it, maybe I have a different perspective than... the one that you have. But what we're going to look at today is oxidative stress and radical scavenging in pools. Basically the role of hydroxyl radicals in water sanitation. Then how to build a strong brand that lasts for a good time. That lasts for just that last. Fuck it, who cares? So anyway, I hope your week was great. Let's dive into this. But first, let's get the tip of the day from Pete, a word from Ray Pack, and then we'll get started with radicals. Then we'll get started with hydroxyl radicals. Rudy Stankowitz (01:39.894) So, scientifically barmy yet shockingly effective pool sanitation with AOP, Advanced Oxidation Process, or I like to call it, what to do when mere chlorine just isn't mad enough. Yes, it's all about cleaning your pool with radicals. No, not long-haired protestors, but microscopic fiends called hydroxyl radicals. that attack contaminants like ravenous, like a ravenous horde of, well, something tall and toothy. These little devils you see are the Arnold Schwarzenegger's of pool cleaning, ruthlessly disassembling every pesky pollutant molecule, breaking them down into nice harmless bits like water and carbon dioxide. Rudy Stankowitz (02:38.496) now. It's not just about dumping in more chemicals and hoping for the best. No. AOPs use highly sophisticated methods like UV light, hydrogen peroxide, and even the occasional zap of ozone. We talked about diversifying last week. This is one of the ways that you can do that. AOP gives you a strong cocktail. AOP is a good way to do that. Rudy Stankowitz (03:17.194) Start over. Rudy Stankowitz (03:24.108) So last week we talked about diversifying our offerings. An advanced oxidation process is definitely something that you can add that will make you stand out in a market. There's not a lot of people out there that are experts with this. So why not you? Why can't you be the AOP person in your market? Rudy Stankowitz (03:57.206) So today, we venture into the scientifically-barny yet shockingly effective world of pool sanitation with advanced oxidation processes. Or I like to call it, what to do when mere chlorine just isn't mad enough. Yes, it's about cleaning your pool with radicals. No, not the long-haired protesters. I'm talking about microscopic fiends. called hydroxyl radicals that attack contaminants like a nervous hoard of, well, something small with a lot of teeth. These little devils are the Arnold Schwarzenegger's of pool cleaning, ruthlessly disassembling every pesky pollutant molecule, breaking them down into nice harmless bits like water and carbon dioxide. Now, It's not just about dumping in more chemicals and hoping for the best. AOPs use highly sophisticated methods like UV light, hydrogen peroxide, and even the occasional zap of ozone. They can cocktail a cocktail of reactions in your pool water that make traditional sanitizers look like a child with a toy bucket at the seashore. Imagine your pool becomes the battleground of chemistry, where hydroxyl radicals are launched like tiny atomic bombs, relentlessly pursuing and obliterating body oils, sunscreens, and who knows what else your cousins Stan left in the water on the 4th July. Rudy Stankowitz (05:40.908) Your customer's pools become a battleground of chemistry where hydroxyl radicals are launched like tiny atomic bombs, relentlessly pursuing and obliterating body oils, sunscreens, and who knows what else? Their cousins and aunts and uncles and friends left in their pools on the 4th July. Rudy Stankowitz (06:03.178) But one does not simply create hydroxyl radicals. They must be summoned, conjured forth in a magical and absurdly precise process. Systems like UV combined with hydrogen peroxide or ozone injections coax these radicals out of their tiny molecular shells right there in the water. It's all terribly clever. Instead of chlorine-lingling... Instead of chlorine lingering around feebly splashing at contaminants, hydroxyl radicals wade in and dismantle everything in sight at a molecular level. No half measures here. They simply vaporize the nasties until you're left with its pure pristine. They simply vaporize the nasties until all you're left with is pure pristine. water. Rudy Stankowitz (07:08.438) They simply vaporize all the nasties until all you're left with is pure, pristine water that's not only clean, but as stable as the Queen's English. Rudy Stankowitz (07:24.192) that's not only clean, but is as stable as, well, a stable. Rudy Stankowitz (07:33.846) They simply vaporize all the nasties until all you're left with is pure pristine water that's not only clean but is as stable as... Well, stables, I guess. apply this science. Now, to apply this science, a pool service company morphs into a veritable league of chemists. Now... To apply this science to what you do, your company, your pool service company, will morph into a veritable league of chemists monitoring and maintaining these delicate systems like a gardener tending prize roses. You have to check the UV lamps, you have to tweak the ozone, and you'll have to ensure the hydrogen peroxide is perky and potent. The payoff? Your client's pool will gleam. with a chemical purity unmatched in the anals of pooldom. And you get to charge a premium. Rudy Stankowitz (09:12.044) Of course, you have to educate your clients. We talked about going green. We talked about becoming the eco company. We talked about going green. talked about... Rudy Stankowitz (09:35.582) Okay, so you have to educate your clients. You have to let them know that you're doing this. You have to let them know that this is an offering in their neighborhood. We talked about this when we talked about going green. Sustainability, remember? Putting yourself out there as the eco-friendly company. Same thing here. These concepts are slightly above the average pool person's idea of pool maintenance, which usually involves, you know, and that and a hose. tell them that their pool is now a high quality hydroxyl radical generator. It's a cutting edge system that reduces chemical byproducts and leaves the water feeling soft and luxurious. If they're feeling especially fancy, might even turn if they're feeling especially fancy, you might even toss in the words oxidative stress or molecular breakdown. That should earn you a round of applause and maybe an extra 10 % on your fee. Rudy Stankowitz (10:46.412) Of course there's always the inevitable moment when the client asks, is it safe? To which I say, safe? It's positively overwhelmingly sanitizing. Your pool will be cleaner than your granny's tea set and far more powerful than chlorine alone. And if that's not reassuring, offer a quick story about hydro, how, if that's not reassuring, offer a quick story about how hydroxyl radicals are also used to clean up. nasty industrials. And if that's not reassuring, offer a quick story about how hydroxyl radicals are also used to clean up nasty industrial spills. Nothing like an anecdote about toxic waste to make your pool sound. Nothing like an anecdote, nothing like an anecdote about toxic waste to make their pools sound positively drinkable. They're not. people stick their asses in that water. This still doesn't solve that. But, you get what I'm saying. Rudy Stankowitz (11:54.644) Of course, if you really want to set your pool service empire apart, you must embrace AOP as the ultimate upmarket option. Market it as eco-friendly, chemical light, hydroxyl radical dream pool. Perfect for discerning clients who are tired of itchy eyes, dodgy smells, and errant chloramines. It's practically spa therapy for the water, leaving the clients with water so pure it makes Perrier look like a stagnant swamp. Rudy Stankowitz (12:30.282) So my friends, the choice is clear. Embrace the radicals. Offer your client a pool that doesn't... Offer your clients a pool that doesn't just look clean, but is clean on a manicu... Offer your clients a pool that doesn't just look clean, but is clean on a molecular level. Nothing says luxury like telling someone their water has undergone advanced... oxidative processes. You'll be the Albert Einstein of pool care in your market, the Marie Curie of the backyard and I might say the modern day pool water sanitation savant. So wield those hydraulic Rudy Stankowitz (13:46.315) I mean. I mean, consider that the science of pool sanitation has evolved considerably over the last decade with pool service companies increasingly turning to advanced oxidation processes as a solution for cleaner, safer, and more stable water quality. But again, a huge marketable point of difference. Now at the heart of these processes, again, the hydroxyl radicals, powerful oxidizing agents that decompose contaminants with remarkable efficiency. The science behind their reaction pathways and how they outperform traditional methods. Blah blah blah. Rudy Stankowitz (14:35.678) So hydroxyl radicals are the neutral form of hydroxides. They're among the most reactive species known in water treatment and environmental cleanup. These radicals form during the process of advanced oxidation where hydroxyl groups are separated from hydrogen and react with various organic contaminants in pool water. In pool water, they target and break down pollutants like body oils, sunscreen residues, and microorganisms, which may otherwise persist even with traditional sanitizers. So to achieve this, AOPs rely on systems such as UV combined with hydrogen peroxide or ozone, which produce these radicals in situ, directly within the water, being treated. So for pool service companies understanding these sources is essential for maximizing sanitizing, for maximizing sanitation efficiency, and ensuring that the AOP systems in place continue to function at peak performance. Once generated, hydroxyl radicals react with contaminants through a series of complex steps. Their journey role, their primary role is to initiate oxidative stress within harmful organic molecules, destabilizing their structure and breaking them down into simpler, less harmful byproducts, the carbon dioxide and water. Their primary role is to initiate oxidative stress with harmful organic molecules, destabilizing their structure. Their primary role is to initiate oxidative stress within harmful organic molecules, destabilizing their structure and breaking them down into simple. Rudy Stankowitz (16:34.038) breaking them down into simpler, less harmful byproducts like carbon dioxide and water. This is fundamentally different from traditional chlorine sanitation, which, while effective, does not achieve the same level of molecular breakdown and may result in byproducts like chloramines that can cause respiratory irritation or foul odors. Hydroxyl radicals are powerful enough to oxidize complex organic compounds. compounds, hydroxyl radicals are powerful enough to oxidize complex organic compounds entirely, making them particularly effective for pools with high organic loads. In practice, means pools treated with AOPs require fewer chemicals. This means pools treated with AOPs require fewer chemical interventions and retain a fresher, more stable quality over time. Pool service entrepreneurs, like yourselves, incorporating AOP systems can be transformative. Systems that leverage UV light combined with ozone or hydrogen peroxide not only generate hydroxyl radicals, but can also act as secondary disinfection systems, particularly effective in high use or public pools. When a pool equipped with AOP, when a pool equipped with an AOP system, When a pool is equipped with an AOP system, service technicians have a greater capacity to manage and monitor contaminant loads, especially in those high traffic seasons. Rudy Stankowitz (18:26.112) When a pool is equipped with AOP system, service techs have a greater capacity to manage and monitor contaminant loads, especially in high traffic seasons. Because hydroxyl radicals break down contaminants at a molecular level, they can also address pollutants that evade chlorine treatment, which is especially beneficial for pools prone to organic buildup from lotions, oils, and debris. Rudy Stankowitz (19:02.248) Implementing AOP technology requires ongoing attention to system maintenance, but the payoff is a significant reduction in traditional chemical requirements and enhanced water clarity. For example, regular maintenance of UV lamps, ozone generators, or hydrogen peroxide reservoirs is essential to maintain optimal hydroxyl radical production. Pool service companies can offer specialized AOP system maintenance plans to clients. ensuring that these advanced systems function efficiently year-round. Furthermore, regular testing of oxidation reduction potential, ORP, can help monitor the efficiency of AOP systems, providing a straightforward indicator of water cleanliness and offering a quantitative measure for clients looking to understand their pool's health. Again, we've been talking about going green, we've been talking about diversifying the products that we offer. AOP could be your answer. Rudy Stankowitz (20:27.914) The field of AOPs is advancing quickly, so if you want to stay abreast of the latest changes and innovations to have a competitive edge, The field of AOPs is advancing. I'm moving. Rudy Stankowitz (21:25.974) The of AOPs is advancing quickly and staying abreast of the latest innovations can give you a competitive edge. For example, next generation systems are experimenting with electrochemical oxidation where current flows through electrodes in the water to produce these radicals without adding any chemicals. This approach is gaining a lot of traction for its efficiency and sustainability as it reduces reliance on supplemental oxidizers like hydrogen peroxide. Although, Hybrid systems that combine AOPs with traditional chlorination or saltwater systems are also proving to be highly effective, creating a layered sanitation effect that maximizes hydroxyl radical generation while also benefiting from the disinfecting power of chlorine. These systems represent an area of opportunity for you. gives you the ability to offer a premium service that can provide enhanced water quality and a more natural swimming experience. Rudy Stankowitz (22:52.096) For pool service companies, incorporating AOP technology can add a lot of value to your service. You can add a lot of value to your service by incorporating AOP technology. Rudy Stankowitz (23:08.926) a way to enhance you can add a lot of value to your service by incorporating AOP technology as a way to advance value and You can add a lot of value to your service by incorporating AOP technology. It appeals to clients. Rudy Stankowitz (23:33.024) You can add a lot of value to your service by incorporating AOP technology. It appeals to clients who prioritize water quality and environmental sustainability. We spoke about this. Hydroxyl radicals not only clean the water more thoroughly than traditional methods, but they do so with fewer chemical byproducts. That results in water that is gentler on the skin and also on the eyes. Furthermore, Because AOP systems reduce the need for other chemicals, they prevent a lower overall cost of ownership over time. environmentally conscious clients, the reduced chemical footprint and improved water safety make AOP based pools a highly attractive option. Educating clients on the benefits of these systems can also build brand loyalty as pool owners come to see their service provider as an innovator in pool care in your area. As the innovator in pool care in your area. Rudy Stankowitz (24:44.404) Offering AOP as a premium service opens a realm of possibilities for pool service. Offering AOP as a premium service opens a new realm of possibilities for you. Positioning AOP-equipped pools as eco-friendly or chemical light options can appeal to those environmentally aware clients and families with young children who are particularly sensitive to chloramines and chemical residuals. AOPs can also be marketed as the solution for high-use commercial pools, such as hotels, community centers, where maintaining superior water quality is a top priority. By bundling AOP installation and maintenance services, pool companies like yourselves can provide a unique high value offering that differentiates your business from your competitors, especially in markets where quality and health are primary client concerns. I mean, we've been talking about these things. There's a reason for it. You can play the numbers game and make it all about how many customers you can get. I have 200 a week, I have 300 a week, I have 500 a week, or you can start to offer those premium services and make the same amount of money. with a fraction of the customers. And less customers means less headaches. Why not be more profitable? We're talking about a bunch of different ways to get there. That's what we've been going through on these Friday podcasts. So. Rudy Stankowitz (26:30.732) So AOPs again, so AOP, why not add AOPs? They offer numerous benefits, but it's essential to set clear client expectations. Educating clients about the limitations and requirements of AOP systems such as ongoing maintenance and periodic performance checks ensures that they have a positive experience, but it also ensures that you keep the cash flowing in. Since AOPs are relatively new, clients may not be aware of how these systems work or how to gauge their effectiveness. So by providing thorough explanations, as well as regular updates on system performance and water quality, you can maintain that client trust and satisfaction. Transparent communication regarding the necessity of routine maintenance, UV bulb replacements, and possible system updates ensures that clients understand and appreciate the full value of your investment. Rudy Stankowitz (27:53.996) Advanced oxidation processes and the power of hydroxyl radicals represent the future of pool sanitation period the end. just do. So if you're willing to embrace that now, invest in these technologies now, AOP will offer a compelling combination of effectiveness, sustainability and client satisfaction that you can take advantage of in your market before your competition can even say AOP. by understanding and leveraging the science behind radical scavenging, you can stand out in your market. You can provide that premiums cutting edge water treatment service that we spoke about. Educating your clients about the unique benefits of hydroxyl radicals and the science of oxidative stress will further your position as your business as a trusted expert in pool care in that market. One that clients can rely on for innovative solutions to age old challenges and pool sanitation. These are not for your customer who is worried about what you're charging, who's trying to nickel and dime you, who looks at you as just the person who scoops leaves and vacuums. That's not the right customer for this. This is the high end customer who is worried about chemical use, who is worried about the environment, who's worried about their children, their family, et cetera. That's where this falls into place. Offer a premium service. You could be that white-gloved I know. Some of you are listening going, ha! But you're the ones that are doing the numbers game, and that's fine. The numbers game is a good way to go also. Well, it's a way to go. You've got to pick and choose your preference. Some folks don't want to be bothered with all the technology. I just want to go in, test the water, add chlorine, vacuum, and leave. Great. The way you make your numbers is on volume. Rudy Stankowitz (29:56.614) Or you could add that premium service. Less customers, more money. Also means what? More time off? Just a thought. Rudy Stankowitz (30:26.634) never stop. Rudy Stankowitz (30:38.796) you Rudy Stankowitz (30:55.308) Wow, you can do that right there? I had no idea. Rudy Stankowitz (31:14.89) Stop this fucker. Rudy Stankowitz (31:21.31) It won't stop now. Rudy Stankowitz (31:39.702) school. Rudy Stankowitz (00:00) Okay, now I want to talk about how to be lovably invasive yet not remotely creepy while running a pool service empire that will endure until the heat death of the universe. it's all about making the grandest most unforgettable impression on the poor unsuspecting customer. And by that, I mean, securing their lifelong devotion through a series of unbreakable bonds and baffling consistent encounters. Now, first impressions. Creating exceptional interactions isn't just about a smart logo or slapping your name on a van. One must engage in unrelenting professionalism combined with a dash of carefully orchestrated whimsy, whether it's through a phone call, a handwritten note or particularly enthusiastic high fives. Each interaction must say, we are here, we are competent, and we will not rest until your pool sparkles like a thousand radiant suns Each technician transforms into a brand ambassador or as I like to call them, relentless envoys of chlorine and care. ensuring that every client feels like they're your favorite or at least in the top three. But of course, it's not enough to simply be pleasant. No, you must institute an elaborate system of checks and balances in the form of CRMs. There's a lot of great software out there that can help you keep tabs on everything from water pH levels to your Aunt Margaret's birthday. send them text alerts before arrival, pepper them with friendly reminders about service updates, and crucially follow up after the visit. No loose ends. We will be like very dedicated butlers, poised at the door with data-driven insight and the occasional poolside antidote. Now, let's talk about loyalty programs. This isn't just giving the odd freebie. We're discounts, service upgrades, and even priority booking for those particularly loyal souls who haven't yet thrown us out. all inclusive subscription services for the diehards so they don't have to lift a finger ever. And why stop there? Host a little pool care 101 seminar. Have an Ask the Expert day where you can dazzle them with your arcane knowledge of chlorination. They'll be begging to come back just for the sheer thrill of watching you talk about water balance. Then we must tackle the world of review management, an art form akin to herding cats if cats had strongly held opinions about water clarity. One must delicately nudge for reviews like a nervous ballroom dancer attempting to lead an elephant. Offer a gentle discount, maybe a delightful seasonal contest for best feedback. Who doesn't love a chance to win a pool noodle with your logo emblazoned on it? And should a negative review arrive, respond as if you're channeling the very spirit of St. Francis of Assisi with empathy and concern. calming the critic and transforming them from detractor to advocate. And finally, as we gaze toward the horizon of community and reputation, we must immerse ourselves in a storm of transparency, communicate openly, sponsor local events, show the community you're not just a pool service, you're the pool service, the one that will remember the little things like precisely why the neighbor's dog absolutely loathes your truck. Ultimately, Success is all about feedback loops that miraculous cycle where your clients bless them Tell you precisely where you've gone wrong so you can improve track those KPIs as if they hold the meaning of life itself Retention rate, review scores, repeat visits, refine your strategies to ensure that everyone, and I do mean everyone, knows that your pool service is the veritable eighth wonder of the chlorinated world. So remember, a bit of care, a dollop of diligence, and the relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction bordering on the maniacal, soon you'll be turning pool service into an art form. A delicate ballet of pH and chlorine, resulting in the holy grail of pool services. A brand that not only lasts, but does so with enough charm, grace, and dry humor to make even the grumpiest of clients come crawling back So again, beginning with the fundamentals, the importance of first impressions and consistent communication. This means not only presenting a professional online presence across platforms, but ensuring that every interaction, whether through phone or text or face-to-face, reflects the company's brand values. Each technician becomes a brand ambassador, interacting with clients in a way that reinforce the brand's commitment to quality a memorable impact, personal touches like personalized service reports, seasonal thank you messages, and custom pool care recommendations add a unique value driven layer to the client experience, making every interaction feel special. An outstanding customer service system requires more than simple niceties. It's about building an infrastructure that prioritizes customer needs at every touch point. Leveraging CRM systems. You know, there's a ton of pool surface software systems out there. Those help to streamline these efforts. offering real-time service updates, maintenance reminders, and quick issue resolution. High-impact communication tools like text alerts before arrival and post-service follow-ups via email can make clients feel informed and valued. So the introduction of digital service reports, providing updates on completed work, water quality tests, and recommendations all serves as an additional layer of transparency and professionalism that reinforces customer trust. A brand that lasts is built on long-term loyalty. Innovative loyalty programs can greatly benefit a pool service company, rewarding recurring clients with discounts, service upgrades, or priority booking, encouraging them to stay with the business over the years. Subscription-based services with all inclusive options that offer convenience for repeat customers going beyond service, companies can engage with clients through pool care one-on-one webinars or ask the expert sections, offering value that nurtures an ongoing relationship and reinforces the brand as an industry leader. That's where you want to be. The importance of review management can't be overstated, particularly in an industry driven by reputation and trust. Proactively engaging honest reviews in a manner that feels organic rather than pressured is vital. Offering discounts, for example, or holding seasonal contests for clients who leave feedback adds an additional element of fun to it all. Managing negative feedback with empathy and professionalism, like I mentioned before, turns critics into advocates, particularly if issues are handled quickly and with genuine care. some of those will be your best advocates ever, even better than the ones you've never pissed off. Automated review management tools such as Broadly or BirdEye allow companies to keep a close eye on feedback. categorizing clients based on satisfaction levels and enabling target outreach for resolution or appreciation. True brand loyalty is also built by connecting with the local community and demonstrating transparency. Community involvement, such as partnering with local businesses or sponsoring events, can increase visibility and connect the brand with its community in a positive way. Transparency in service, such as clearly communicating pricing and explaining each step of the service process, fosters trust and establishes the brand This openness reassures clients that their needs are met honestly Handling customer issues proactively is essential. Rather than waiting for problems to arise, scheduled check-ins seasonal maintenance. and early detection of pool issues demonstrates a commitment to that customer's long-term satisfaction. Implementing a brand specific protocol for resolving any issues from service complaints to emergencies gives technicians a reliable process to follow. This ensures consistency and high quality responses. In an industry where visual appeal is paramount, social media offers an opportunity to share the beauty and precision of pool service Showcasing before and after shots, water clarity results, or tips for pool maintenance attracts new clients while keeping current ones engaged. Emerging clients in user generated content such as encouraging them to share a photo of their pools. That helps to build a community and offers social proof of customer satisfaction. Providing educational content on water chemistry or seasonal pool care tips further establishes the brand's credibility and your authority presenting the company as a go-to Tracking the successes of these efforts is crucial for continued growth. Creating feedback loops where customers are invited to provide insights into their experience allows the company to adjust and improve. Key performance indicators, KPIs like client retention rate, average review scores, and frequency of repeat customers, those are valuable They offer a way to measure brand health and customer satisfaction over time. Analyzing these KPIs quarterly can help you to refine strategies and ensure that the company is consistently delivering on its brand promises. The power of customer service and reputation management in the pool service industry is profound. A business built on exceptional service, transparent interactions, and proactive client engagement will naturally inspire loyalty and word of mouth referrals. through a brand of traditional customer service excellence and modern innovative practices, pool service entrepreneurs can create brands that are not only memorable, but enduring. By applying these strategies, you'll set your company on a path towards sustained success, creating lasting relationships with clients who view your brand as an indispensable part of their pool care routine. And isn't that what you want? Isn't that everything that we've been speaking about? Ways to diversify your offerings, ways to establish your brand, ways to establish yourself as the leader in that market. We're talking about different methods of maintaining the pool that will set you apart, that will place you as the sustainable option and the way to market it. That's all I have for this week. Thank you for joining me once again. I do appreciate you. You have no idea how much. And I enjoy getting this opportunity to chat with you each week. If you enjoy the conversation too, leave us a good review. Give us five stars. Share us with a friend. Recommend us to a friend. Ask a question. Talkingpools at gmail.com. Until next time, be good, be safe.