Month: April 2015

Who is [Insert Your Company Name]?

April 30, 2015

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

Ask yourself two questions: What does your company stand for? Where is the company headed?

Last month, our leadership team met offsite for a week to discuss company goals and direction. The result from the meeting was discovering and establishing DKI’s main purpose and company core values – definitive guidelines why we exist, how we should act as a team, and how we plan to grow and succeed.

Together, we all agreed our main purpose is to “Restore Peace of Mind.” We also agreed upon five specific guidelines to help us meet this goal in our everyday work – Five rules for every employee to follow. These five rules are also a part of our cultural fit.

Overall, our team wanted to achieve consistency. Every team member needs to be in line with the purpose of the organization and where we are headed. Employees who do not adhere to a shared corporate culture weaken the organization. It’s not your company that creates loyalty with your customers, it’s the people. Employee uniformity of beliefs and goals can make customers and clients believe in the company.

This doesn’t mean individuality is not allowed in our workplace. We encourage new ideas, but we want those individual personalities to blend, as one of our core values is “Teamwork.”

If you haven’t already done so, define and communicate throughout your organization, a few significant standards that answer the two top questions. Without coherence, how do you expect to have one goal, one direction, one purpose – that establishes who your company is?

DKI Partners with the Red Cross Emergency App

April 27, 2015 – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced its new partnership with the American Red Cross through the organization’s free 24/7 Emergency App, available on all smartphones and tablets.

The new app provides instant access to customizable weather and emergency alerts for locations anywhere in the United States, keeping you and your loved ones safe. With 35 different emergency alerts to monitor multiple locations from anywhere in the U.S. and the “Family Safe” feature, the Emergency App allows you to stay connected with your family and friends during an emergency, even if the recipient has not downloaded the app.

The “Family Safe” feature, which allows users to instantly contact loved ones after alerts are issued in their area, is also available on the new Apple Watch, which launched on April 24th.

The Emergency App, which works anywhere in the U.S., is a one-stop source for 14 different types of emergencies, including natural and man-made disasters. It not only alerts activity in an area, but also features a map of Red Cross shelters, a “Make a Plan” feature with information on what to do and where to go if a disaster strikes, as well as embedded content, allowing access even without a mobile data connection.

DKI is very excited to be partnering with the Red Cross as its exclusive sponsor for this innovative app.

“We help restore lives and properties, and this includes keeping the public aware of potential disasters. We are certain this app will be beneficial, allowing friends and families to stay connected during stressful situations,” said Jessica Nielsen, DKI’s AVP of Marketing.

Access the Red Cross Emergency App by downloading it from the app store on your smartphone or tablet, or by going to redcross.org/apps.

About DKI

DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America.  DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers, including: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to its consumer, insurance, and corporate customers.  For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

April 20, 2015

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

…So they say. And, quite frankly, they are correct.

The other day, an acquaintance asked me, “What is the point of writing case studies for the various reconstruction projects your company completes?” He continued to add the many excuses we receive each day – It takes too much time. Is anyone actually taking the time to read every bit of the story? Blah, blah, blah…

While documenting your work through notes and photos can appear tedious and take up time that you may feel you do not have, the outcome of said documentation is significant to the success and efficiency of your present and future services. Case studies are important to build and hold onto for a multitude of reasons:

  • They serve as a reminder of how the tasks were completed, what problems arose, project completion times and more.
  • They create exposure to your company, team of experts and the services you offer – through personal snapshots of identifiable, real-life situations.
  • They offer a cheap, if not free, form of advertising your services.
  • They build leads by providing potential customers concrete examples of your range of services, expertise and knowledge of the field.

As I tried to explain the importance of case studies, briefly touching upon each of the above statements, my acquaintance nodded along as if in agreement.

But, then, he said something that struck my attention – “Why not just post pictures of the work through social media? I hate reading all of that jargon and rambling on posts, but I always look at photos, whether or not I even mean to.”

While I still believe in the importance of writing case studies, and I believe I was able to persuade him as well after our conversation, I truly agree that a picture of an event speaks volumes of the story. Looking at the latest trends on social media now – Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, Vine, infographics – You almost cannot get away with only posting copy now, at least not if you want people to read and remember your posts.

As Dr. Lynell Burmark, Ph.D. Associate at the Thornburg Center for Professional Development said, “Words are processed by our short-term memory where we can only retain about 7 bits of information. Images, on the other hand, go directly into long-term memory where they are indelibly etched.”

Look at the examples of case studies below. Which one are you more likely to read? Which makes you more interested in the company?

1

Example A

2

Example B

If you chose Example A, you are not alone. Example A offers the exact same content as Example B, but features photos, giving the viewer a visual description of the event, instead of requiring him or her to read the entire synopsis to discover what happened.

Case studies can be informative and a cheap way to advertise your business and services. However, exclusively telling your story through words can go unseen or “in one ear, out the other.” If you want to tell your story and allow your customers to visualize the situation, a picture really is worth a thousand words.

Tornado Watch vs Warning

April 15, 2015

By: Chelsea Haley, DKI Ventures, LLC

Lately, there have been a number of tornadoes in the Midwestern states. Whether you grew up in these areas, are new to a local tornado occurrence, or have loved ones living in tornado prone states, it’s important to know the terminology affiliated with severe weather alerts. During a tornado, you will see and hear alerts on your TVs, radios or cell phones. Continue reading to learn each of these warnings and what you should do in the event of a tornado.

Tornado Watch

A tornado watch is issued by the National Weather Service when tornadoes are possible in or near your area, and can span several counties to several states. Remain alert for an approaching storm within the next few hours.

  • Observe the sky for large, dark, low lying clouds or a greenish hue.
  • Listen to the radio or television for updated information.
  • Be prepared to find shelter.
  • Prepare and gather supplies for your emergency kit (clothes, food, water, first aid, etc.)

Tornado Warning

A tornado warning is issued when a locally centered tornado has actually been sighted or detected on the ground by weather radar. If you hear of a local tornado warning, seek shelter immediately.

If you are in the office complex, head to the storm cellar, basement or lowest possible level and get under a sturdy piece of furniture and hold onto it tightly. Avoid elevators, open spaces, windows and buildings with long-span roofs.

Take with you an NOAA radio or any other battery-operated radio or television that can keep you up to date on the storm, as well as your emergency kit with survival supplies you and your staff may need.

Tornado Emergency

A tornado emergency is an intensified tornado warning. It is issued when a large, powerful storm is present in a populated region that may cause significant damage with possible fatalities. Like a tornado warning, run for shelter during a tornado emergency.

Remember that DKI is here to help! If you or someone you know experiences damage to your property, call us at (888) 735-0800. DKI is available 24/7/365.

Find out more information about tornadoes from these sources:

NOAA

FEMA

281-Flooded Inc. Renews Franchise Membership with DKI

April 15, 2015 – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that 281-Flooded Inc. of Houston, Texas has renewed its Franchise Membership with the DKI network.

By continuing its DKI Franchise Membership, 281-Flooded Inc. will continue to utilize DKI’s 24 hour call center, its claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance its ability to serve its insurance and corporate customers. 281-Flooded Inc. also gains access to DKI’s training seminars and workshops to ensure they remain abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

“We are delighted that 281-Flooded Inc. will continue to be a part of the rapidly growing DKI network,” Dan Cassara, DKI’s president.  “281-Flooded Inc.’s commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI’s position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration. We look forward to continuing our rewarding association with 281-Flooded Inc.

Company President, Michael Bright, is pleased 281-Flooded Inc. meets DKI’s high standards for continued Franchise Membership, as DKI has always stood for excellence in the industry.  The opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms in the DKI network has allowed 281-Flooded Inc. to expand their scope of services, introduced them to new markets and has helped ensure their continued success.

In addition to being able to use DKI’s technology and training capabilities, 281-Flooded Inc. can also continue using the DKI branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various co-op programs, and leverage DKI’s corporate marketing efforts.

 

Bay Area DKI Renews Franchise Membership with DKI

April 15, 2015 – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that Bay Area DKI of Oldsmar, Fla. has renewed its Franchise Membership with the DKI network.

By continuing its DKI Franchise Membership, Bay Area DKI will continue to utilize DKI’s 24 hour call center, its claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance its ability to serve its insurance and corporate customers. Bay Area DKI also gains access to DKI’s training seminars and workshops to ensure they remain abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

“We are delighted that Bay Area DKI will continue to be a part of the rapidly growing DKI network,” Dan Cassara, DKI’s president.  “Bay Area DKI’s commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI’s position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration.  We look forward to continuing our rewarding association with Bay Area DKI.

Company president, Mark Spicola, is pleased Bay Area DKI meets DKI’s high standards for continued Franchise Membership, as DKI has always stood for excellence in the industry.  The opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms in the DKI network has allowed Bay Area DKI to expand their scope of services, introduced them to new markets and has helped ensure their continued success.

In addition to being able to use DKI’s technology and training capabilities, Bay Area DKI can also continue using the DKI branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various co-op programs, and leverage DKI’s corporate marketing efforts.

 

Bravo Company Restoration Renews Franchise Membership with DKI

April 15, 2015 – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that Bravo Company Restoration of Windsor, Calif. has renewed its Franchise Membership with the DKI network.

By continuing its DKI Franchise Membership, Bravo Company Restoration will continue to utilize DKI’s 24 hour call center, its claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance its ability to serve its insurance and corporate customers. Bravo Company Restoration also gains access to DKI’s training seminars and workshops to ensure they remain abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

“We are delighted that Bravo Company Restoration will continue to be a part of the rapidly growing DKI network,” Dan Cassara, DKI’s president. “ Bravo Company Restoration’s commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI’s position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration. We look forward to continuing our rewarding association with Bravo Company Restoration.

Company President, Scott Cleveland, is pleased Bravo Company Restoration meets DKI’s high standards for continued Franchise Membership, as DKI has always stood for excellence in the industry. The opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms in the DKI network has allowed Bravo Company Restoration to expand their scope of services, introduced them to new markets and has helped ensure their continued success.

In addition to being able to use DKI’s technology and training capabilities, S Bravo Company Restoration can also continue using the DKI branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various co-op programs, and leverage DKI’s corporate marketing efforts.

 

Panhandle’s Josh Contraguerro Receives Generation 40 Award

April 9, 2015 –DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, announced today that Vice President of Marketing for DKI’s Member Company, Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration, Josh Contraguerro, was presented the 10th annual Generation Next: 40 Under 40 award for the Class of 2015.

The Generation Next: 40 Under 40 was created by West Virginia’s business newspaper, The State Journal, to honor young leaders throughout the Mountain State, who work hard to make West Virginia a better place.

When describing the honorees of the Class of 2015, the managing editor of The State Journal, Ann Ali proclaimed, “These are the people who wake up early and stay late, but still find the time to volunteer and give back.”

As VP of Marketing, Contraguerro promotes his father’s business, Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration, daily.  “To tell stories of how we helped families, to be there when employees deliver toys back to kids after they were recovered and restored from being in a fire,” he said. “That’s what helps you get through each day.”

Learn more about The State Journal and this year’s Generation Next at www.statejournal.com.download

About Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration

Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration is the leading provider of disaster recovery services in the Ohio Valley region of West Virginia. With a commitment to fairness, honesty, and quality work, it has established a reputation for the quality of its services and the professionalism of its team. Offering 24-hour emergency service and full-service reconstruction, 365 days a year, call Panhandle anytime to board up and secure property within minutes of a disaster. Learn more by visiting www.panhandlecr.com.

About DKI

DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America. DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers. For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.

Complete DKI Renews Franchise Membership with DKI

April 9, 2015 – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that Complete DKI of Pensacola, FL has renewed its Franchise Membership with the DKI network.

By continuing its DKI Franchise Membership, Complete DKI will continue to utilize DKI’s 24 hour call center, its DIAMOND® claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance its ability to serve its insurance and corporate customers. Complete DKI also gains access to DKI’s training seminars and workshops to ensure they remain abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

“We are delighted that Complete DKI will continue to be a part of the rapidly growing DKI network,” Dan Cassara, DKI’s president.  “Complete DKI’s commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI’s position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration.  We look forward to continuing our rewarding association with Complete DKI.

Company operations manager, Shaun Carpentier, is pleased Complete DKI meets DKI’s high standards for continued Franchise Membership, as DKI has always stood for excellence in the industry.  The opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms in the DKI network has allowed Complete DKI to expand their scope of services, introduced them to new markets and has helped ensure their continued success.

In addition to being able to use DKI’s technology and training capabilities, Complete DKI can also continue using the DKI branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various co-op programs, and leverage DKI’s corporate marketing efforts.

About DKI

DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America.  DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers.  For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.

RESTORx of Washington Renews Franchise Membership with DKI

April 9, 2015 – DKI, North America’s largest disaster restoration contracting organization, today announced that RESTORx of Washington of Auburn, Wash. has renewed its Franchise Membership with the DKI network.

By continuing its DKI Franchise Membership, RESTORx of Washington will continue to utilize DKI’s 24 hour call center, its DIAMOND® claims tracking technology, and other tools to enhance its ability to serve its insurance and corporate customers. RESTORx of Washington also gains access to DKI’s training seminars and workshops to ensure they remain abreast of all changes in this rapidly evolving industry.

“We are delighted that RESTORx of Washington will continue to be a part of the rapidly growing DKI network,” Dan Cassara, DKI’s president.  “RESTORx of Washington’s commitment to quick response, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service reaffirms DKI’s position in the marketplace as The Source for Quality Restoration.  We look forward to continuing our rewarding association with RESTORx of Washington.

Company owner, Rick Bevins, is pleased RESTORx of Washington meets DKI’s high standards for continued Franchise Membership, as DKI has always stood for excellence in the industry.  The opportunity to work in partnership with other quality firms in the DKI network has allowed RESTORx of Washington to expand their scope of services, introduced them to new markets and has helped ensure their continued success.

In addition to being able to use DKI’s technology and training capabilities, RESTORx of Washington can also continue using the DKI branding in its marketing efforts, participate in its various co-op programs, and leverage DKI’s corporate marketing efforts.

About DKI

DKI, headquartered in Chicago, is the largest disaster restoration contracting organization in North America.  DKI Franchise Member companies provide full service restoration to their customers: emergency response, water damage mitigation, fire and contents cleaning, mold remediation, complete reconstruction and much more, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  DKI returns damaged property to its pre-loss condition quickly and efficiently, delivering complete satisfaction to our consumer, insurance, and corporate customers.  For more information about DKI, visit our website at www.dkiservices.com or contact Jessica Nielsen at (630) 350-3000.