We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Josh Wheeler. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Josh below.
Josh, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?
I was once a college dropout, feeling lost and uncertain about my future. I worked dead-end jobs and struggled to find my place in the world. However, in 2014, I was given a chance to work for the #1 carpet cleaner in Atlanta,GA. With hard work and dedication, I quickly became known for my excellent customer service. It was this reputation that led the company to offer me a position in their newer hardwood division. I was thrilled at the opportunity and eager to learn all that I could. They trained me extensively, even sending me to Ohio for hands-on experience. But the best learning experience came from being out in the field on my own. Through this experience, I gained valuable knowledge and skills, which allowed me to excel in my position and grow within the company. Towards the end of my time with the carpet cleaning company, they made the decision to demolish the hardwood division and partner up with an actual hardwood flooring company. As a result, I was given away to this new company, and the owner saw potential in me as a project manager. This was a turning point in my career, as I was able to learn business operations and gain hands-on training in management, sales, problem-solving, and client communication. I absorbed every piece of knowledge I could, with dreams of one day starting my own company. In 2018, the time was right, and I took a leap of faith and parted ways with that flooring company. What I gained from my time there was invaluable, and it allowed me to start a successful hardwood flooring company of my own. I am forever grateful for the opportunities that came my way and the lessons I learned, which have made me the successful business owner I am today.
Josh, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Craftsmanship is a source of pride for every artisan in any trade. When I first started my business, I was fortunate enough to have my father, a veteran floor installer with over 35 years of experience, accompany me to job sites. As we drove to and from work, he would often point to subdivisions and regale me with stories of how he had installed flooring in those homes for the builders. This has stuck with me, and it reminds me of the impact that my work can have on people’s lives. As a hardwood flooring craftsman, I am privileged to work with materials that will likely outlast me, and it is humbling to think about the legacy that my work will leave behind.
I am a perfectionist, sometimes to a fault. I take pride in my work, and I won’t sign off on a job until my customer is completely satisfied. Keeping up with the ever-changing world of flooring is essential to my craft, and I make it a point to stay up-to-date on the latest products and services to ensure that 360 Hardwood Solutions remains the premier flooring company.
At 360 Hardwood Solutions, we offer a wide range of services and products for laminate, engineered, and solid hardwood flooring. We understand that every household is unique, and we strive to provide professional solutions that meet the specific needs of each client. Our goal is to deliver exceptional craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service to every customer, every time.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
In the business world, customer service plays a significant role in determining the reputation of a company or an individual. In my case, my market reputation was built by providing excellent customer service. I understood the importance of fulfilling the promises made to the customers and ensuring that all commitments were met on time. This helped me gain the trust of my customers and establish a loyal customer base. By providing timely and efficient customer service, I was able to differentiate myself from my competitors and create a positive image in my field. Therefore, I believe that customer service is a crucial aspect of any business, and it should be given utmost importance to build a strong and reputable brand.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
It’s like a tree growing in a forest. The tree doesn’t need to advertise (which I don’t) to grow quickly, it patiently works with the resources it has and creates a strong foundation. As it grows, it attracts birds and insects who spread its seeds and help it grow further. Similarly, I work with existing clients and local contractors to establish a strong reputation. Recording myself working on floors has helped boost my online presence as well. In return, my social media pages have attracted new clients who are impressed by its content.
Contact Info:
- Website: 360hardwoodsolutions.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/360hardwoodsolutions
- Facebook: Facebook.com/360hardwoodsolutions
- Youtube: Youtube.com/360hardwoodsolutions
- Other: TikTok: @360HardwoodSolutions