Overview

After expressing interest in a job, you can message homeowners directly through BlueClerk. Good communication can be the difference between getting hired and being passed over. Here's how to make the most of your conversations.

Accessing Conversations

Finding Your Messages

Go to "Messages" in the navigation
See all active conversations
Click any conversation to open it

Conversation Sources

Conversations start when:

You express interest in a marketplace job
A homeowner sends you a direct job request
You're working on an existing job

Messaging Best Practices

First Response

When a homeowner messages you:

Respond quickly - within hours, not days
Be helpful - answer their questions fully
Stay professional - this is a business interaction

Ongoing Communication

Throughout the conversation:

Be clear - avoid jargon they won't understand
Be honest - about pricing, timing, capabilities
Be patient - they may need time to decide
Be available - check messages regularly

What to Discuss

Common conversation topics:

Scope clarification - making sure you understand the work
Availability - when you could do the job
Rough pricing - ballpark estimates
Experience - your background with similar work
Process - how you work

What Not to Do

Don't be pushy or pressure them
Don't badmouth other contractors
Don't share confidential information
Don't make promises you can't keep
Don't ignore messages for days

Giving Estimates in Chat

Rough Estimates

You can give ballpark figures:

"For this type of faucet repair, typically $150-250 depending on parts needed. I can give an exact quote after seeing it in person."

Be Clear About Limitations

Without seeing the job:

Estimates are approximate
Final price depends on actual conditions
Unexpected issues can change scope

On-Site Estimates

For accurate pricing:

"I'd be happy to come out for a free estimate. Are you available Tuesday or Wednesday this week?"

Handling Common Situations

Price Shoppers

If they're just comparing prices:

Give general ranges
Emphasize your value (experience, warranty, quality)
Don't engage in race-to-bottom pricing

Slow Responders

If they go quiet:

Send one follow-up after a few days
Keep it friendly and low-pressure
Accept that some won't respond

Detailed Questions

If they have lots of questions:

Answer thoroughly - it shows you're knowledgeable
Offer to discuss by phone if easier
See it as a positive sign of interest

Attachments

Sending Photos or Files

You can share:

Portfolio photos of similar work
References or testimonials
Company information

To send attachments:

Click the attachment icon
Select files
Send with your message

After Getting Hired

Next Steps

Once they hire you:

Address is shared - you can now see their location
Schedule the work - coordinate timing
Confirm details - verify scope and expectations
Do great work - this leads to more business

Continued Communication

Keep using BlueClerk chat to:

Confirm appointments
Send updates
Discuss any changes
Follow up after completion

Tips

Treat every conversation professionally
Respond same-day when possible
Be yourself while staying professional
Build relationships, not just transactions
Thank them for their interest

Common Questions

Q: Can I call homeowners directly? A: Only after they hire you and share contact info. Use BlueClerk messaging initially.

Q: What if they ask for free work or unreasonable discounts? A: Politely decline. Know your worth and stick to fair pricing.

Q: Should I message if I don't hear back? A: One follow-up is fine. Multiple messages can seem pushy.

Q: Are messages saved? A: Yes, all messages are saved in the conversation history.

Messaging Homeowners