Becky recently completed an expensive home repair. It went well and she was satisfied with the results. But, throughout the process she had an uneasy feeling, which she was never able to identify. Finally, she realized what she’d been feeling was uncomfortable. When the workmen were there she didn’t feel comfortable in her own home.
Several weeks later Becky recognized why she felt this way when an HV/AC contractor said, “I’m going to be in and out a lot. Do you want me to knock first and then come in, or just walk in without knocking?” She immediately felt comfortable with the knocking option. She realized that when the other repair men just walked in she perceived it as impolite and invasive.
Her experience is actually very common. People are so focused on cost, time and contracts that they don’t think of making the process more comfortable for themselves, their families and the workers. They “just want to get though it”. But, a conversation with your contractor about your expectations may go a long way toward helping you feel more at ease.
When expectations aren’t discussed the contractor, his employees and you are doing a lot of assuming, which often leads to confusion, misunderstanding and possible embarrassment. People have very different opinions on what is appropriate in certain situations – opinions they assume others are aware of and share.
But, people don’t have the same expectations. Some home owners might think, “The workers need to take time to make friends with my kids and dog, it’s their home too.” While other owners think, “It’s my job to keep my kids and dog out of the way, the workers are too busy to be bothered by them.”
If you and your contractor don’t discuss it he won’t know what your expectations and boundaries are. A reputable contractor and his employees want you to feel comfortable – they want you to clearly spell things out for them. Otherwise, they’ll drive to the closest gas station to use the bathroom, while you’re wondering why they’re not using the downstairs half bath.
Nicole Abbott is a professional writer who’s had over 150 articles published. She’s a business consultant and former psycho-therapist with over 20 years of experience in mental health, business and addiction. She’s a coach, lecturer, trainer and facilitator. She has conducted over 200 workshops, trainings, presentations, seminars and college classes.
