Hello WINDOW FILM magazine world! Summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to up your game! Let’s talk about how you can make your operations smoother, quicker and more efficient. With the right plan, you can save precious minutes on each install, attack more jobs, and make your customers super happy. This is why you should have a plan before you start tinting a car. You don’t want to wander around your shop like a zombie from The Walking Dead, right? Absolutely not! So, here’s the plan.

Step 1: Inspect the Vehicle

Once your customer picks the type of tint (hopefully ceramic), take a good look at the vehicle. Spot any previous points of damage, especially around the door panels and other areas where you’ll be working. Point these out to the customer and record them in a customer relationship management software. I personally like Tint Wiz because you can document any damage with pictures. This step prevents misunderstandings later on.

Step 2: Roll the Windows Down

Before driving the car into your shop, roll all the windows down. This isn’t just for the nice breeze; it’s to stay alert of your surroundings. You’ll be able to hear if someone yells, “Stop!” – something I’ve seen save a foot from getting smashed.

Step 3: Turn off the Radio/Stereo

To keep alert when driving, turn off the radio or stereo.

Step 4: Slow and Steady Wins the Race

While driving the car into your bay, don’t go faster than 5 mph. The faster you go, the less time you have to react and avoid accidents. Safety first!

Step 5: Honk the Horn

Give the horn a light double-tap before entering your installation bay. This signals to your team that a vehicle is coming in, helping everyone stay aware.

Step 6: Ready the Car for Tinting

Once parked, pull the seats forward (if you’re working on the rear window). Make sure the radio/stereo is off, along with the air conditioning and heat warmers. This helps prevent the battery from dying on your watch.

Step 7: Keep the Keys Safe

Be careful with the keys! Never leave them on top of the windshield wipers or anywhere they might fall and get damaged. I’ve seen keys go flying when left on the wipers and then accidentally triggered. A safer place is on the dashboard or inside a cup holder.

You’re all set to start tinting. Cut your patterns carefully and do your best work for your customers. Remember, quality work lasts a lifetime.

Do you have any special steps in your game plan for installing window tints? Share with us, and I’ll see you soon!

— The Film Trainer has left the chat!