Features & reviews
Stand out in the crowd with the Dulux Select Decorator Scheme
February 2009
With the trend for improving rather than moving on the rise due to the credit crunch, painters and decorators are in demand and well placed to ride the economic storm. That said, money is tight for homeowners who may attempt to go it alone to save precious pennies, or opt for the cheapest quote and potentially get their fingers burnt by a 'cowboy tradesman'. Rebecca Cowling, Marketing Manager, Decorators, at ICI Paints AkzoNobel, explains how decorating professionals can gain the trust of their customers and stand out from the crowd in such an unpredictable environment:
"Research shows that homeowners often worry about falling victim to rogue traders and unprofessional painters and decorators. Despite the vast numbers of skilled and reputable tradesmen operating today, it is no secret that there are a small number of dishonest painters and decorators in the mix too.
"When customers are ripped off, word gets around - so it's good for every householder to know that next time they hire a tradesman, they can find a competent and trustworthy one.
Industry stamp of approval
"To address the need for reputable painters and decorators to receive the professional recognition they deserve, and remove the stress associated with choosing a tradesman for customers, the Dulux Select Decorator Scheme for professional decorators operates as an industry stamp of approval.
"The Dulux Select Decorator Scheme is an elite accreditation programme that was set up to eliminate the risk of 'cowboy tradesmen' for homeowners, by offering the reassurance that all members are fully assessed and accredited by Dulux. Members of the scheme are able to set themselves apart from their peers with the backing and support of the Dulux brand, and through endorsements and recommendations from happy customers which are displayed on their online decorators profile at www.duluxdecorators.co.uk.
"In addition, all work undertaken by a Select Decorator is guaranteed for a minimum of 12 months, which is underwritten by Dulux, giving the homeowner further reassurance and the decorator even more credibility.
Taking it to a new level
"Until now, Select Decorator membership has been available to decorating professionals with a minimum of three years experience, and who had been operating their own business for over a year.
"However, Dulux Trade recognises the importance of supporting new business start ups from the crucial early stages of trading, and has thus introduced a new membership level to support this group of professionals - Associate Select Membership.
"Another aim is to support new entrants to the trade, raising professional standards and supporting the industry in general. As a result, the Select Decorator Scheme is committed to offering extra support and help to members who take on apprentices - an all important step up for those embarking upon a career in the industry.
Perks of the job
"The Select Decorator Scheme is well established, with 12 years' experience in putting homeowners in touch with Dulux approved painters and decorators, and offers an array of benefits to tradesmen as well, from free training courses, a 24 hour helpline and access to a mentor, through to rewards for long term members and special offers on certain products or services.
"Accreditation schemes, such as the Dulux Select Decorator Scheme, really help set painters and decorators apart from the competition, and being accredited gives prospective customers peace of mind that they have chosen a tradesperson that is trusted and professional."
For further information on the Dulux Select Decorator Scheme and how to become a Select Decorator, please visit www.duluxselectdecorators.co.uk or call 0845 7626990.
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