When people ask me, “what sets Woodard apart from other companies,” I answer that it comes down to two main points: hiring quality employees, and providing extensive employee training. Certainly the cleaning and restoration results we achieve, our attention to detail, amazing customer service, and respect for our customers’ belongings also play key roles.
Woodard has a very thorough hiring process. We only hire people that embrace our core values (FYI, Woodard’s core values are: Do what’s right, Honesty/integrity/trust, Respect, Dedication to serving others, and Continuous improvement). Additionally, an employee has to be presentable and respectful. We understand that inviting a stranger into your home can be disconcerting, and we want our customers to be comfortable with Woodard employees. The hiring process also includes several screening interviews with various department managers, placement testing to determine fit, and additional HR practices to help identify a quality employee.
Once a person is hired, they then begin an extensive employee training program. Traditionally, a new employee will be hired into our Flex Work Force, a position that requires them to work in all business divisions, learning multiple job functions. They begin working alongside seasoned crew chiefs, as well as having considerable classroom training to earn industry certifications. There are many certifications that a new employee could earn (depending on what position they hold in the company). Altogether, Woodard’s employees hold over 400 certifications, including carpet and furniture cleaning, structural drying, odor elimination, mold remediation, and others.
Next time a Woodard employee is working in your home, ask how they feel about working for Woodard. You will see their pride in working for a company that cares for their employees, and the customers they serve. We feel that quality employees and extensive employee training gives Woodard a distinct advantage over the competition.
(By Tom Blandford, Operations Manager)
