Q: What is the Blind Brokers Network?
A: The Blind Brokers Network is a concept of Steve
Dale and is set up to allow independent window
covering dealers to compete and beat the “big
boys.” The Steve Dale provides training,
pricing, systems, and ongoing education to His
Clients.
Q: Are there any ongoing fees?
A: No, we get paid from all the vendors to run the
group. Due to our multimillion dollar buying power,
you are able to get better pricing than other non-network
members. You also get free ongoing support.
Q: Whose name do I use?
A: We’ll provide a list of about 60 potential
business names that you may use without charge. We’ll
also provide step-by-step instructions on how you
can develop your own company name and logo, if you
prefer.
Q: How do I know my prices will be competitive?
A: Everything we do at the Blind Brokers Network
is designed to make you more competitive than anyone
else in your area. Since we all know that a huge
window coverings market exists, the goal of the Blind
Brokers Network is to get as much of that business
as possible, making you even more competitive through
increased buying power and better markeing.
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Q: How do I compare pricing with other vendors?
A: This 30-minute exercise will change your life
forever! We urge you to do this right away: Call
Home Depot, Lowe’s, Sears, J.C. Penney, a mail
order company, or anyone whose pricing you want to
compare with ours. Ask for pricing on the popular
products listed below; the brands should be M&B,
Hunter Douglas, or Bali. The sizes should all be
60” x 60”, which is a standard size
in the industry.
• 2-inch bass wood blind
• 2-inch faux wood blind
• 2-inch Hunter Douglas Silhouette
• Wood plantation shutter
• Vinyl plantation shutter
NOTE: Also be sure to get the cost for measuring
and installation; this is an important part of the
total cost. Then call us and we’ll give you
the current net cost that Blind Brokers Network dealers
pay when purchasing those same products directly
from those same manufacturers.
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Q: How does installation work?
A: If you follow our guidelines and training videos,
you should be able to install 10 to 12 blinds per
hour. Installation is fast and simple; in fact, it
takes more time to unpack a blind than it does to
actually install it! Most of our dealers do their
own installations, but if you’d prefer to subcontract
your installation, that’s a simple process
also. Professional installers usually charge $10
to $12 per blind for installation. If you can’t
find a suitable installation service, or if you’d
prefer to have your own full-time installer, we can
show you the secrets to finding, hiring, and training
a good one.
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Q: Who measures the customers’ windows?
A: You do. The customer has two main fears...measuring
and installation. Removing these fears provides a
comfort level to your customer that will enhance
their satisfaction while bringing you more referral
business. And don’t worry...once you know how
to measure and install, you’ll be surprised
how simple and easy these operations are.
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Q: What will I learn from Steve Dale?
A: He’ll teach you how to handle basic bookkeeping,
office setup, legal requirements, sales tax procedures,
marketing strategies, lead tracking, advertising,
image development, pricing, vendor relations, product
knowledge, measuring, installation, presentation,
in-home sales, simple repairs, networking, phone
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Q: How do I keep my overhead low?
A: Through years of experimentation and fine tuning,
we have developed innovative operational strategies
that allow you to build a successful business while
keeping your overhead expenditures below 5%. This
exceptionally low overhead, when combined with our
proven marketing strategies, will give you a huge
competitive advantage in your marketplace.
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Q: Do I need a retail store?
A: No. We are a shop-at-home service that brings
the store to the customer; a retail location is completely
unnecessary. Customers readily agree that there is
no better place to choose window coverings than right
in the customer’s home, next to the customer’s
windows.
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Q: Can I use my SUV?
A: Yes. An SUV can be an ideal choice for your window covering business vehicle. You could also use a pickup truck with a shell or a van to operate your mobile blind and shutter business.
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Q: How does the customer pay for their window coverings?
A: Most customers will pay you with a credit card,
debit card, or personal check. In some circumstances,
we can show you how to put the cost of your customer’s
window fashions into their mortgage or home equity
line of credit. In any event, standard procedure
is for the customer to pay a 50% deposit upon ordering,
and the full balance when you complete the installation
of their new window coverings.
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Q: Can I speak with existing Steve Dale Clients?
A: Of course. Just call us toll-free at 888-92BLIND,
and we’ll be happy to give you referrals.
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