For so many in the energy broker business, the focus of a brokerage is on the residential side, where there is sometimes more familiarity and a more straightforward way of doing business. Relatively few individual families worry about their carbon footprint and don’t have the time or sometimes the wherewithal to inquire as to where their energy comes from. Families also usually don’t care about round the clock customer service as long as an energy broker is reasonably accessible and there is a low price on their bill for the energy they consumed. However, businesses can be more demanding customers and ask for more services given the larger amount of energy they consume. Below are some ways businesses determine how to use an energy broker.
Your track record of success
Like last quarter’s sales figures, your track record of success for other clients will have a direct impact on how future clients perceive you. Your ability to respond to a current client’s needs will very certainly have an impact on whether or not they keep you on. Insights into the market and the ability to stay one step ahead of trends will help nail down client loyalty when they begin to evaluate how their business uses an energy broker.
How many suppliers you have access to
You’re only as good as your last deal, and how many suppliers you have access to will help provide the diversity you need to make deals happen for your clients. The ability to find the best contract for your clients is key, and the more suppliers you have access to, the better price and contract you can offer up. Supply and diversity of supply are the key to offering your clients the best possible deal, so they remain your clients and not someone else’s.
If you provide good, prompt customer service
Sometimes, competing on price isn’t enough, especially when the differential between suppliers and the brokers that work to connect clients is relatively small. For many, the difference in making the pick in an energy broker is customer service that takes needs into account, responds quickly, and helps them make accurate decisions that save the company time, money, and efficiency costs. Customer service is key in many businesses, and that’s no different when it comes to how businesses use energy brokers.
Can you clearly explain any fees or conditions?
Sometimes, energy brokers and others get involved in sales talk that doesn’t mean much to the customer and leaves them feeling confused and unsure about what they signed up for. Clearly explaining any obligation the customer is taking on will leave them feeling reassured about you and your ability to be an honest broker.
As in any businesses, the needs and requirements of every customer vary per business or family. However, by keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be exactly what every business needs when they’re looking for and using an energy broker.