Experience Files

The idea of striking up a rapport with your competitors might sound like a scene from a spy movie, met with skepticism and even shock. After all, aren't they the enemy? But let's clarify: we're not talking about becoming best friends forever or sharing your company's deepest secrets. Instead, consider the untapped potential of open dialogue with your market rivals. It can be mutually beneficial, and surprisingly, boost everyone's bottom line.

Setting the Stage for Collaboration

Forget the paranoia of office meetings. There’s no need to worry about lock-picking or CIA-level hacking software. Keep it neutral and low-key. A simple lunch or dinner at a local restaurant offers a relaxed environment that disarms suspicion and fosters genuine conversation.

Unlocking Xactimate's Hidden Power

Many restoration contractors are missing out on key features within Xactimate that could directly impact their profitability. For instance, did you know:

1. You can modify the price of labor or materials on a project directly within Xm8's components tab? And surprisingly, many aren't even aware that the price list updates monthly!

2. You can send essential feedback to Xm8's pricing department simply by marking an estimate complete. This action, often overlooked, is a direct line to influencing future pricing.

3. You can Increase your pricing and providing consistent feedback which can absolutely lead to an increase in line item values in your specific market.

It's easy to feel like you're just one person, one subscription, and that your actions won't make a bit of difference. But imagine the collective power if you and your competitors started acting in unison.

The Power of Collective Action

What if you initiated a conversation with other business owners or managers in your market, enlightening them about these Xm8 functionalities? If they, too, began providing feedback on their estimates, the cumulative effect could be substantial. Suddenly, independent contractors could collectively push for better pricing with just a few keystrokes, benefiting everyone.

Remember, contractors on vendor programs, and even insurance adjusters, are routinely marking estimates complete to upload them to XactAnalysis. However, they aren't typically focused on updating component pricing. This leaves a significant opportunity for independent contractors to take the lead.

Debunking the "You're the Only One" Argument

Another common hurdle is the adjuster's claim, "You're the only one billing for this line item." This tired argument can be easily countered if you've already established a line of communication with competitors. A quick phone call, putting them on speaker (with their permission, of course), and asking about their scope of work and billing practices for that specific item, can be a game-changer. Then, you can confidently ask the adjuster, "So, would you like to retract that statement, or should I call another contractor and ask them as well?"