INSTALLER PROFILE Niel McGowan

DRUMMING UP BUSINESS

For our installer profile we speak to Neil McGowan of NM Home Improvements Ltd. We began by asking him how long he has been installing kitchens and bathrooms and which geographical area does he operate from? “To be honest it’s all I’ve ever done! I left school in 2001 and have been installing ever since. Most of my work comes from the North Lincolnshire area but my reputation means that I sometimes pick up work further afield which I’m prepared to do as long as there is enough in the job to make it worthwhile financially.” So how did Neil get into installation and was it a lifelong ambition? “Once I left school I set aside some time to consider whether college was really for me. I was lucky really as a neighbour ran his own business and offered me a position as a labourer for two weeks which actually ended up spanning 3 three years.” He continued, “I did try a different trade for a few months but soon returned to installing, it must be in my DNA. I completed my NVQ in making and installing furniture level 2 in 2010 which then inspired me to become selfemployed.”

“I get a high proportion of recommendations, but apart from this, I get a lot of my work from social media networking, recommendations and local retailers. In addition to all of this; through my membership of the iKBBI, I was able to become a Bathstore approved installer which works well for me.”

We asked what is his main areas of expertise and how does he generate business, to which he explained, “As a member of the iKBBI, its obvious really that I install kitchens and bathrooms, but I’m not restricted to just the fitting of products; fortunately, my broad skills set allows me to often complete the entire project, including minor building, electrical

“These days when not working I like to spend time with family and when I can make time, my hobbies are playing the drums, woodworking and mountain biking.”

... cont and carpentry work. However, that’s not to say that I don’t occasionally call on extra help from colleagues who are joiners, gas fitters and electricians where necessary.” He further stated, “As far as new business is concerned I consider myself lucky as I get a high proportion of recommendations, but apart from this, I get a lot of my work from social media networking, recommendations and local retailers. In addition to all of this; through my membership of the iKBBI, I was able to become a Bathstore approved installer which works well for me.”

There are always challenges in business so what has been the biggest so far? “Without doubt my biggest challenge in business has been starting out in the recession, I even had to contract out at times when things got really tough, but I managed to ride it out successfully. It’s something I’m proud of to be honest.” Neil also commented: “With regard to personal challenges it has to be running and growing a once fledgling business whilst supporting a wife and two children. It has been so difficult to manage my time to keep an even balance between business and family life but despite putting in a lot of hours to make the business a success I think I’ve managed it ok.”

Keeping things personal, what would Neil be if he hadn’t become an installer? “If I wasn’t an installer I would definitely have become a full-time soldier. I served in the reserves for 10 years, first as a Metalsmith, and then a Chef, a bit of a strange combination really” he laughed, “These days when I’m not working I like to spend time with family and when I can make time, my hobbies are playing the drums, woodworking and mountain biking. In fact, I successfully completed a 33 mile off road course in Surrey this year which is possibly my highlight of the year.”

“I have recently received endorsement from Which? Trusted Traders; this is incredibly valuable to my business.”

With regard to his iKBBI membership we asked Neil why he joined and does he have any advice to any installers out their contemplating a membership to which he answered, “I initially joined the iKBBI two years ago not just for the credibility, but because I’m proud of our industry and my work and thought it important to support such a credible organisation that’s trying to help us all who make a living out of the kitchen and bathroom industry.”

He continued, “The iKBBI endorsement alone has confirmed to me that all the hard work I have put in over the years is now paying dividends. One example is the fact that I have recently received endorsement from Which? Trusted Traders. This is incredibly valuable to my business. I always explain to potential clients the importance of our iKBBI membership and the vetting process that we have to undergo and it definitely reassures them and they understand that we are the professionals in our trade, usually resulting in us getting the work.”

Finally, we rounded things up by asking if Neil has any comment on the future of the KBB market generally, to which he replied, “I have no concerns for the future of our industry. If anything I would like to see more true professionals within it and proper training for new entrants. With regard to the iKBBI, all I can say to fellow members is to continue working hard, spread the word about the iKBBI and take care of your clients. Everything else will come together and you can be successful in your own area. Remember people talk and what more could you ask for if they are saying great things about you and your business.”

Neil McGowan, NM Home Improvements Ltd. www.nmhomeimprovements.com