While there is no substitute for experience when it comes to effective water well drilling, business owners can’t overlook the importance of customer service and continued training and education to ensure their operations continue to thrive and meet the changing needs of the marketplace. Here are seven things successful water well drillers do:

1. Complete the Paper Trail.

It is important for well drillers to have all of the required federal, state, and local permits and licenses, as well as be up-to-date on state and local codes. State well codes contain minimum standards that must be followed when water wells are built, repaired, or abandoned, and when pumps and pumping equipment are installed. Local permits contain information about the geology of the area for optimal well placement, minimum well depths and other important considerations. Failure to comply with licensing and permit requirements can result in a business’ loss of license.
 

2. Have a Pulse on the Marketplace.

Smart business owners will be aware of opportunities within their service area to grow their operations — whether that’s providing yearly maintenance services, adding new services (geothermal, drives or wastewater pumps, for instance), or acquiring an existing business to add additional services or expand their market coverage. Business owners should be sure expansion plans are in line with their operational and financial goals.
 

3. Provide Top-Flight Customer Service.

It’s not unusual for water well drilling businesses to be multigenerational family operations of 40, 50 and even 70-plus years. The common thread among these longtime operators is exceptional customer service. That means around-the-clock emergency service, providing knowledgeable and trusted advice, and offering cost-effective options to their customers.
 

4. Communicate Effectively.

Successful business relationships often stem from excellent communication skills. Polishing people skills, practicing active listening, and picking up on positive or negative nonverbal cues from customers will help establish trust. People want to work with others who are positive, truthful, helpful and genuine.

5. Establish Credibility.

In addition to providing basic contact information, creating a professional website to tell the story of your business, the services you offer, and the technical expertise you and your team possess can create a positive impression of your business among potential customers. Becoming active on social media is a low-cost method of reaching new customers and gaining word-of-mouth credibility. Homeowner-focused materials that explain your products and services are also valuable marketing tools.
 

6. Participate in Ongoing Training and Education.

Hands-on training seminars such as those offered at the Goulds Water Technology Factory School educate participants about the latest advancements in residential applications, proper installation of products and troubleshooting skills. Virtual seminars are another great option for water industry professionals to expand technical knowledge of the industry. Both can assist professionals in obtaining necessary continuing education units required for certification.
 

7. Seek Professional Involvement Opportunities.

Whether it’s attending trade shows to learn about industry-leading product innovations or joining a professional association to keep informed on best practices in the field, there is a wealth of information available to assist water industry professionals. The Goulds Professional Dealers Association (GPDA) is one such group dedicated to helping professional pump installers grow their businesses through tools, education and support.