How to Be a Valued Employee in HVAC Service

Why is it important to be a valued employee in an HVAC service union shop?

Refrigeration and HVAC service technicians are in high demand. Especially when you work for a union shop, where your pay is determined primarily by length of service, you might wonder why it’s worth going out of your way to prove your value to your employer. Here’s why:

Job security. Even when your skills are in demand, unexpected things sometimes happen, like the COVID pandemic. When New York City businesses were forced to close for months, many HVAC employers had to furlough employees for a period of time. And who did they bring back first? Their most valued employees. Also, remember that certain union benefits, such as vacation time, are based on length of service with your current employer.

Getting the work assignments you want. Even when you love your job, it’s great when you have some choice about your schedule (such as when and how much overtime you’ll work, and when you can take vacation), and the type of work you get assigned. As a valued employee, you’ll be more likely to get what you ask for.

Getting promoted. Looking to climb the ladder? Opportunities start with showing your value in your current position.

Job satisfaction. This is not often mentioned but is important in terms of quality of life. When the boss likes you, trusts you, and appreciates what you do, that makes it much more likely that you will also feel good about your accomplishments and enjoy your job.

8 tips to become the most valued employee in your workplace

As a service technician, obviously your skill at diagnosing and repairing problems is essential to your employer. However, there are many other skills and behaviors that are just as important to employers. Master everything on this list, and you’ll be well on the way to a successful career in HVAC service.

1. Be reliable

This is number one on our list for a reason. Employers consistently report that reliability is what they need most from workers, especially service technicians. Your company needs to be able to depend on you to be on time, to perform your work as expected, and to follow through on commitments. Always make it a priority to keep your promises to customers, managers, and co-workers.

2. Be a great communicator

Even though service technicians may work alone much of the time, you are part of a team. It’s your responsibility to keep others informed about work status, progress, delays, and problems, including your managers, other team members, and especially your customers. Employers very much appreciate a service technician who proactively communicates well with others. Always be thinking about what others want and need to know, and share information in the most efficient way you can.

3. Be flexible

As the old saying goes, change is the only constant in life (and in work). If you’re willing to roll with the punches and do what’s needed (such as take on emergency overtime, fill in for a sick co-worker, or handle a difficult assignment) that flexibility is incredibly valuable to your employer.

4. Be positive

Demonstrating a friendly, confident, and optimistic attitude makes people want to work with you, because it removes a lot of the stress associated with the job. Positive behavior also shows the boss that you can handle the frustration and criticism that can sometimes come from customers. When you act this way, especially under pressure, customers will begin asking for you personally, which will certainly impress the boss and increase your value to the company.

5. Be curious

In the HVAC service industry where knowledge is so valuable AND technology is changing so fast, being eager to learn is a great quality in an employee. Even service technicians with decades of experience need to keep their skills fresh and learn new things. Those who are always interested in what’s new and able to soak up knowledge like a sponge will become more and more valuable over time.

Be committed to continuously improving your skills, and make a habit of asking questions when working with more experienced technicians.

6. Be persistent

Diagnosing problems with complex HVAC and Refrigeration systems can be time consuming and frustrating at times. When faced with obstacles, show that you can remain calm under pressure and keep at it until you figure out the solution.

7. Be efficient

Time is money in the HVAC service business. Nobody wants you to rush and make mistakes, or neglect important parts of the job like communicating with the customer. However, the most valuable technicians are those who can stay focused on the problem at hand and get the job done quickly and efficiently.

8. Be honest

Everybody makes mistakes and has problems once in a while. Trying to hide them will only come back to bite you. Managers value employees they can trust to tell them the truth. Always be authentic and open about your actions and decisions, as well as your strengths and where you need to improve.

Do you have what it takes to succeed as a service technician in the HVAC and Refrigeration industry? TAKE OUR QUIZ to find out.

More resources to help you succeed in HVAC service

Whether you are just entering the industry or just looking to up your game and grow your career, check out our helpful articles, training videos, and resume resources.