Pro Energy Consultants - Industry Q & A

Provide an overview/ description of your industry.  Include reasons why it's a great industry to start a business in today.

Energy costs and consumption have exploded into the consciousness of our nation's homeowners and businesses, making everyone increasingly vigilant about the energy they consume. Additionally, local and regional governments are starting to subsidize and reward homeowners who take a proactive role in making their home more energy efficient. People are looking for local experts to help them sort out myths from facts, and help them identify the opportunities that work best for their home or commercial building.

How has your industry changed in the last 10 years?  20 years?

When Mark Cannella started this business in 1995, "green" was still just a color. Now it is a trend that continues to grow, and will increasingly become a way of life for a growing number of demographics and regions.

What trends do you see in your industry over the next 5 years?  Next 10 years?

Interest in being "green," reducing energy costs, and improving indoor comfort and health have increased exponentially in recent years, and we believe that will continue to grow at a rapid rate. Increased knowledge about the industry will promote building performance assessments becoming as normal as a home inspection in the buying process, to support prospective homeowners who are interested in knowing the utility costs and energy efficiency.

What is the biggest concern about your industry that a franchisee candidate should be aware of and investigate?

There are several competitors out there offering energy audits, but they use them to sell (typically expensive) products. We believe in the test, and providing our clients with an objective report on what improvements will have the highest impact to improve energy efficiency, health and comfort.

Why do you think your company stands out in the industry?

We are truly objective and customer-oriented. Our process requires that the client is present, and our assessment is meant to educate on the building performance. This gives them the power to make informed decisions on improvements that will have the biggest impact for specific problems.

What makes your franchise/ business opportunity more attractive than your competitor's?

Pro Energy Consultants has the benefit of being the oldest and largest energy assessment franchise, which makes us the recognized leader and the most experienced in the industry. We also have a diversified service suite that includes residential and commercial building assessments, and we are constantly looking to expand into additional areas that will give our owners additional revenue streams, as well as to assist our franchisees' customers.

Describe the ideal candidate.  Do you think your requirements are any different than your competitor's?

We want someone with drive, determination, energy and a 'go-getter' attitude - the type of person who can naturally accomplish in a day what others will take a week to do.  Our extensive training programs will teach someone the technical aspects of the business and we provide a very detailed sales/marketing plan.  If we combine our know-how and programs with the motivated individual, the result is a recipe for success.   Because our investment parameters are much lower, our financial requirements are more feasible for a wider range of people.

What's the strongest skill you require in a candidate? 

The willingness and ability to execute our sales and marketing program thoroughly is absolutely paramount.  A person who has had previous experience in this area and understands how to build and maintain relationships is definitely preferred.  No previous experience in the industry is required.

Describe the working environment of your franchisees (indoors, home office, mobile, etc).  Is your environment typical of other companies in your industry?

Most of our franchisee's businesses are home based.  And no matter how large your business grows or the number of inspectors working for you, it can remain that way (thus increasing your profit potential).  Franchise owners love the mobility and flexibility of their days, along with a relaxed yet professional working atmosphere.  Each day is a blend of interesting and stimulating activities, such as helping customers save money on utility bills by performing assessments, giving educational presentations to industry partners, or showing kids (and their parents) at a home show how cool your infrared camera is!

Why has your company been successful?

We are always looking for ways to help our franchisees grow, from one-to-one weekly coaching calls with individuals to researching additional revenue streams and opportunities.

What advice would you give someone interested in buying a franchise in your industry? 

Our franchisees are in this industry because they find it rewarding to help others save money, improve the health and safety of their home, and be part of a responsible movement.

How much experience in this industry should a franchisee candidate have should they consider buying a franchise in your industry?

No experience in the industry is needed- we provide comprehensive technical training that will make you an expert by the time you complete the program.