Mark Smith
Appliance Assistant, LLC. provides appliance diagnostic and repair help for the DIY person and business management and logistical system development for appliance repair companies through https://servicenode.work
Tell us about yourself?
I am a fourth-generation appliance service person. I started moving new appliances around in the warehouse after school, then moved on to delivery, then built-in product installation, and on to repair work. After about 15 years of that, I decided To start creating DIY Appliance repair videos in 2009 and learned web development.
If you could go back in time a year or two, what piece of advice would you give yourself?
Stay focused on one task and see it through to completion. There are lots of great opportunities! However, it’s easy to spread yourself too thin.
What problem does your business solve?
There is a growing need for business systems in the appliance repair space. We help appliance repair businesses of many sizes synchronize their field and office teams for more efficient and profitable operations. Additionally, we help to facilitate a remote workforce and simplify the complexities of customer service and warranty partnerships, leading to happy customers and a better online reputation.
What is the inspiration behind your business?
I have always loved solving problems and enjoy helping people; additionally, personal struggles in life and juggle the demands of a local field repair business.
What is your magic sauce?
Determination to learn! What sets us apart in this industry is hands-on experience and an understanding of the many complex systems required to successfully operate and grow an appliance repair service business.
What is the plan for the next 5 years? What do you want to achieve?
The nice part about the appliance industry is it is very dynamic and in constant change. Partner that with how quickly new data systems develop and evolve. I expect To be improving the efficiency, function, and design of our field service management system well into the future. I hope that the growing connection to appliance companies will also facilitate more DIY assistance for major appliances well into the future.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far?
Too many to count. Mainly as a DIY person, finally letting go of some of the controls and finding help. It is impossible to accomplish all the day-to-day management tasks on my own; finding and learning to trust other skilled people to do quality work was challenging.
How do people get involved/buy into your vision?
I try to lead by example, thus creating a solid proof of concept and displaying my passion and work ethic.
