My RV Resource loves sharing details about our Featured VIP members and this week, we’re proud to spotlight Chris Ratcliff with R Factor RV Services.
Tell us a little about your situation while running your RV business.
We travel and work full time. When we check into a park or area, we share business cards with the office, display our sign and when possible we get on local social media pages.
Do you live in an RV full-time?
We have been full time traveling RVers since October 2016. We are currently traveling in a 2018 Grand Design Solitude 375 RES. Our first 5 years on the road we had a 2008 Newmar Dutchstar 4304.
What inspired you to start your own RV business?
Several events took place that molded the business.
- I wanted experience and confidence to fix my own RV
- We needed a back up plan for income. After working the corporate world for many years, I learned that layoffs were a way of life.
- I was laid off from my corporate job, so our back up plan was now our primary plan.
- My love for the RV lifestyle and the overwhelming need in this industry.
What RV services or RV products do you offer?
Comprehensive inspections of new and used RVs, Mobile RV repairs, Preventive maintenance, Personalized education on RV systems, and RV trip planning concierge services.
What is your background and how did you develop the skills to start your business?
My technical and diagnostic skills started while I was in the Navy as an Electronic Warfare Technician. I continued developing my skills as a civilian electronic technician for the Navy and then I transitioned to field service work in the private sector.
I moved away from the technician world for 20+ years. During that 20+ years, I worked as a user experience professional where I learned to empathize with people and I developed superior customer service skills.
This knowledge, experience and my love of RVs turned me into a very competent inspector and technician with customer service skills that are difficult to find in the RV industry.
What has been your business’s proudest moment?
I’m not sure that I have just one:
- A person that owns a marketing company said my branding and marketing was fantastic.
- After fixing an AC, a client was so happy, she cried.
- Anytime a client changes their travel plans, so we can continue providing them with service.
What has been your biggest challenge?
As a full time traveler, a consistent flow of business and income.
Describe your typical work day.
I don’t have a typical workday. Today, there’s a lot of admin tasks, so I’m in front of a computer.
Last week I was helping clients fix their problems.
When attending RV rallies, it’s back to back appointments from sun up to sun down.
Leading up to rallies is scheduling appointments, purchasing supplies and general event planning.
I find it refreshing and fun that I don’t have a typical work day.
Tell us something interesting/fun about your business.
Our logo was developed by our daughter’s boyfriend, who is now our future son-in-law.
If you could go back to the beginning knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently?
I wish I would’ve started the business sooner!
What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start his/her own RV business?
Three things:
1. You’ll never please everyone. My personal experience is that 2% of your clients will never be happy. Just move on to the next job.
2. Be honest with your clients. Don’t sugar coat and make things up just to make yourself look good.
3. Communicate with your clients. I can’t count the number of times clients are surprised and thrilled that I took the time to call and talk to them.
Any other comments or advice you'd like to share?
I look at my business as helping people and making them happy. That doesn’t mean I always fix their problem. It means I listen and empathize with our clients.
Glad to chat with you, Chris!
To read more about Chris and R Factor RV Services, click here to check out his company listing page.
You can also follow Chris on Facebook or Instagram and visit his website at RFactorRV.com
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