What makes a technician a valuable employee to a service contracting business? Is it his or her ability to fix any system he or she encounters? Absolutely. But it’s more than just being a master technician.

Being a valuable employee means being someone a service contractor can rely on each day to give an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay. It also means an individual should provide his or her talents and skills to the company and its customers with integrity and honesty.

There are various nontechnical attributes that can make a technician a more valuable employee. For example, an employee must show up each day on time and ready to work. There is nothing more frustrating for a service contractor than when a technician shows up late for work.

Appearance definitely counts. Always arrive on the job well-groomed and dressed in clean clothes. If a company-issued uniform is provided, ensure yours is on and clean. Always strive to present a presentable personal and professional image; this includes keeping your work vehicle clean, orderly, and well-maintained.

Having a positive attitude each day also makes you a better employee. Don’t criticize, condemn, or complain. Be part of the solution rather than the problem. Don’t have the “It’s not my job” attitude. Take the extra steps that are required to get the job done right. Be proactive; take the initiative and the responsibility to make things happen. Take care of customers. Find solutions to their problems and ensure any repairs are done correctly. Engage in activities that create raving customers. Act enthusiastically and become enthusiastic.

Treat fellow employees with respect. If an individual commits to a project or task, make sure it is completed. If fellow employees need help, help them. If fellow technicians need technical assistance, help them without belittling them for not knowing the information. There is nothing worse than asking for some technical advice and the person replies, “You really should know that.” Don’t be that person. Be the employee who simply answers the question and helps a fellow technician with whatever’s needed. Be part of the team and become a valuable asset.

Treat customers with respect. Always clean up after a job. Never leave a work site with old parts, empty refrigerant cylinders, empty parts boxes, or any other debris lying around. Make sure to replace any panels removed with all the panel screws. If anything was moved during the repair or installation, return it to its original location. Clean up all messes. Wipe down the equipment and sweep the surrounding area. These are definitely some of the little things customers really appreciate.

Being a valuable asset to a company is definitely more than being a master technician. Being part of a team helps ensure the success of the company by providing both the company and its customers with outstanding service day in and day out.

Publication date: 12/5/2016

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