Basic Solar Sales Strategies that Ensure Success

It is not a lack of interest from consumers that keeps residential solar sales from going gangbusters. What is holding contractors back is an inability, for many, to close the deal.

As a solar panel contractor, whose attention to detail is a source of pride, you understand the importance of conveying your professionalism to potential clients. But in an industry that is expanding rapidly and becoming increasingly competitive, work ethic and craftsmanship alone do not translate into sales.

Todd Stafford, senior director at the National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) told cleantecnica.com that, “It is not due to a lack of interest from consumers that keeps residential solar from going gangbusters.” What is holding contractors back, he insists, is an inability for many to close the deal.

That’s why contractors aiming to convince prospective customers about the value of solar should focus on these five basic sales tips.

Perfecting Your Strategy Is Vital

While cute and generic sales pitches might hit the mark when selling vacation plans or used cars, home-owners choosing solar are making a substantial financial investment and are less likely to respond positively to frivolous sales patter. And when you consider that clients may have worries about the impact and disruption that the installation process may have on their home and lifestyle, it is easy to understand why sincerity and transparency are essential to gaining the confidence of the consumer.

That means the less complex the consultation, the less likely you are to plant seeds of doubt in your client’s mind. So rather than relying too heavily on a long-winded script, aim to be knowledgeable, and conversational. That kind of give and take approach will provide you with insights into what a customer is looking for. As a consequence, not only will your expertise be highlighted as you provide specific solutions that cater to a client’s individual needs, it will also establish a foundation of trust that a scripted sales pitch may not offer.

Know Your Audience

It may seem like a small detail, but it is a crucial one! Most couples do not make major renovations to their homes without the consent of both decision makers. So if you’re dealing with a couple, arrange your consultation with both of them.

Underscore Value

Going green is a noble undertaking, but it shouldn’t be the focal point of your pitch. In an article with inc.com, Brennan Mulcahy, founder of American Solar Direct, said that he initially pitched client’s on the environmental benefits of solar power. But he quickly learned that his customers were more focused on the financial benefits than environmental ones. So he shifted his focus to cost savings and his sales quickly began to increase. “If you can save (clients) money on their utility bill every month, it’s a big deal.”

Accurate, Timely Quotes

If a solar installer can not provide an accurate quote in a reasonable period of time, they risk losing a potential client to a competitor who is more prompt and seemingly efficient.

That’s another reason while Solargraf is such an effective sales tool. This unique software integrates the highest quality HD imagery through partnerships with Nearmap and Eagleview to generate the exact layout, direction, and measurements of a homeowner’s roof, ensuring a prompt and accurate quote within minutes, allowing contractors and homeowners to view, negotiate, edit and update quotes in real-time.

Allow Your Work To Do the Talking

Your craftsmanship is your calling card. Whenever you secure a solar installation contract make your presence be felt. Pass out flyers in the neighborhood. Put up a sign on the front lawn of the work site. It’s a golden opportunity to advertise your professionalism and attract new clients.