Introducing yourself to the customer

Start by approaching the front door. You should walk up the driveway and/or sidewalks, do not cut through the grass if you can help it. Take off any sunglasses you might have on, grab your electric meter and hold it under your arm or in your hand so they can see the new meter, this will help greatly as they have a visual for what you are there to do. Approach the front door, ring the bell but you must also knock, a good 3 firm knocks will do. Never trust the doorbell to work. Wait to see if you hear anyone moving around, some people take longer to get to the door than others. After your second doorbell ring/door knock, step back 10ft away from the door. If the customer answers greet them with

“Hello, my name is ********, I'm an authorized contractor for (***name of the town and utility ******), I'm here to upgrade your electrical meter, your power will go off for about 1 minute, if you have any sensitive electronics you wish to power down please let me know and I'll proceed when you are done.”

It will seem as if everyone is going to need to shut down their computer. Always ask “is it a desktop or a laptop” if they say it’s a laptop or tablet you can assure them they don't need to power it down, just unplug the adapter and let it run off battery. If it is a desktop, they will probably need to power down. Keep in mind, often people have not shut off their computers in a while and they may have to run through updates. It is advised at that point if you have another house nearby to tell the customer “I have another meter to change nearby. Let me give you time for your computer to update and I’ll be right back, about 10-15 minutes” Working WITH the customer usually helps give the best results. Many people are working from home and might not be able to have their power off right that minute. Do not make the customer feel rushed. Although their power will be out for a minute you need to be patient. Your patience will reflect to the customer and they will also be patient with you performing the work.

If you see the customer outside, it is permissible to approach them in a friendly manner while also keeping your distance. You should never just walk up on someone. A simple “HELLO” to alert them of your presence is always advised. Always ask if anyone else might be home that needs to be alerted.

While we change meters all day every day, for many people this is their first time experiencing this and they may not know what to expect. Be patient with people and let them know you will do everything you can to limit any disruption.