As a propane marketer working with construction professionals, building trust and credibility is key to forming lasting relationships. Builders are constantly navigating challenges involving tight project timelines, cost management, regulatory compliance and the demand for sustainable building practices. When it comes to energy options, they need innovative, reliable solutions that can be easily integrated into their projects.
Fortunately, propane is a safe and versatile energy source that is ideal for builders who prioritize efficiency, reliability and sustainability. By educating construction professionals on the benefits of propane in the industry, propane marketers can reinforce their expertise and establish themselves as trusted energy partners, ultimately leading to an increase in customers and propane usage. Propane marketers can successfully connect and form strong relationships with construction professionals by implementing three key strategies.
Strategy #1: Engage Early & Build Strong Relationships With Builders
Today’s builders are overwhelmed with a multitude of tasks and responsibilities. From managing project bids to coordinating subcontractors and everything in between, construction professionals are pulled in many directions throughout a project. That’s why, as a propane marketer, it is crucial to prioritize early and consistent engagement with builders at the beginning of their projects. Joining local organizations, such as a home builders’ association, is a great first step to meeting and networking with construction professionals in the community, all while better understanding the industry and its unique challenges. Propane marketers have access to countless resources through the Propane Education & Resource Council (PERC) to help understand and connect with builders effectively. To get started, create a marketing profile on propane.com and explore the resources below to learn more about the latest builder news, trends and technologies in the industry.
Propane Presents Series: Hear directly from OEM experts and gain insight into new propane-powered innovations. Visit propane.com/ppt-series.
PERC Learning Center: Learn how to work with other partners and building professionals. Visit training.propane.com.
Build With Propane Newsletter: Offers propane-related reporting, training and analysis for those in the construction industry. Visit tinyurl.com/2s3eduss.
Strategy #2: Empower Builders With Propane Knowledge
In a world focused on electrification and decarbonization, builders realize the importance sustainability has on their business and the homes they craft. Propane marketers can play a pivotal role in educating construction professionals on the benefits of building with propane and helping them see it as a sustainable energy option that aligns with greener building practices. Propane is a clean energy source that checks more than one box. Whether used on the job site or for the infrastructure itself, propane is proven to produce lower carbon emissions and be more efficient than other energy options. At the 2024 International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas, PERC spoke with construction experts Matt Blashaw and Anthony Carrino about the importance sustainability has on their business and in the industry. Hear what they had to say by visiting propane.com/clean-energy-for-dream-homes.
In addition, propane gives construction professionals more control of their build timeline. Unlike other energy sources, propane is independent of the electric grid and does not require a natural gas distribution line, making it possible for construction professionals to start projects sooner and build on their timeline. Propane also allows construction professionals to build in more remote locations and on new land developments due to its portability and on-site storage capabilities.
Strategy #3: Inform Builders of Propane Credits & Incentives
Energy rebates and incentives work as a compelling sales pitch to prospective customers. Research to see if there are local tax credits or incentives for propane appliances in new or remodeled construction projects. Other programs, such as PERC’s Propane Construction Research Program, offer qualifying participants up to $1,500 per project to builders who submit insights on how propane is being used in the industry. To learn more about the program and how it can benefit construction professionals, visit propane.com/pcrp.
Propane marketers can effectively grow their business and sell more gallons by prioritizing these strategies with their construction professional customers. As these relationships deepen, the role of a propane marketer evolves from being merely a supplier to becoming a valued partner and problem-solver. Investing time and resources to learn more about the industry helps lay the foundation for lasting partnerships built on trust and a shared vision, ensuring continued success for both businesses.
