E-233 Pool Nation Podcast Scaling Your Pool Business: Mastering the 4 Phases of Pool Pro Success

The Journey Every Pool Pro Takes: Understanding Your Business Phase

If you've been in the pool service industry for more than a year, you've probably noticed something: the challenges you face today aren't the same ones you faced when you started. Maybe you've gone from worrying about water chemistry to stressing about employee management, or from figuring out equipment repairs to planning business expansion strategies.

This evolution isn't random—it's actually a predictable pattern that nearly every pool service professional follows. In a recent episode of the Pool Nation Podcast, hosts Edgar De Jesus, John JJ Flawless, and Zach Nicholas broke down the four distinct phases that define every pool pro's journey, offering valuable insights for business owners at any stage.

There's certain things that we've kind of been able to figure out along the way... when somebody starts the business they're very focused on the technical things the water chemistry the managing that part of the business and then as they become pros at that as they become comfortable and that kind of comes at second year second to third year we start to see that transition.

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

Understanding these phases isn't just academic—it's practical. When you know where you are in your journey, you can better prepare for what's coming next and avoid the common pitfalls that trap many pool service businesses.

Phase 1: The Technical Foundation Years (Years 1-2)

Every pool service journey begins with the fundamentals. In this first phase, new pool professionals are primarily focused on mastering the technical aspects of pool maintenance. Water chemistry becomes your obsession, and you spend countless hours learning about pH levels, chlorine balance, and algae prevention.

During this phase, most pool pros are operating as solo entrepreneurs, handling everything from testing water to cleaning equipment. The learning curve is steep, but it's also exciting. Every pool presents a new challenge, and each successful fix builds confidence.

Key characteristics of Phase 1 include:

• Heavy focus on water chemistry and basic maintenance
• Solo operation with minimal employees
• Learning through trial and error
• Building initial customer base
• Establishing basic service routines

The main challenge during this phase is gaining competence and confidence. Many new pool pros struggle with imposter syndrome, wondering if they really know enough to charge professional rates. The key to success here is consistent learning and not being afraid to admit when you don't know something.

Phase 2: The Skill Expansion Period (Years 2-4)

As pool professionals become comfortable with basic maintenance, they naturally begin expanding their skill set. This is when many start tackling repairs, equipment installations, and more complex problem-solving scenarios.

As they become comfortable with that they start to play with repairs they start to play with doing all these different things and that's really that year three four right.

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

Phase 2 is characterized by increased confidence and a willingness to take on more challenging work. Pool pros in this stage often find themselves saying yes to jobs they wouldn't have considered in their first year. This expansion of services typically leads to increased revenue and a growing reputation in the local market.

Common developments in Phase 2:

• Adding repair services to maintenance offerings
• Learning equipment installation and replacement
• Developing specialized skills in areas like automation or energy efficiency
• Building relationships with suppliers and other contractors
• Possibly hiring first employee or subcontractor

The biggest risk during this phase is overextending yourself. It's tempting to say yes to every opportunity, but taking on work beyond your skill level can damage your reputation and create safety hazards.

Phase 3: The Business Development Stage (Years 4-6)

Around year five, successful pool professionals hit a pivotal transition point. The technical skills that once consumed their attention become second nature, and their focus shifts to business operations and growth strategies.

Kind of at that year five as you're starting to see that they're growing that now they start to focus on the business side right because now they're at a stage where they're comfortable with that they're bringing on an employee whatever it is.

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

This phase marks the transition from technician to business owner. Pool pros begin thinking about systems, processes, and scalability rather than just completing individual jobs. Employee management becomes a reality, and many business owners discover that managing people requires entirely different skills than managing pools.

Phase 3 priorities include:

• Developing standard operating procedures
• Hiring and training employees
• Implementing business management software
• Focusing on customer acquisition and retention strategies
• Establishing financial tracking and KPIs
• Building company culture and brand identity

The challenge here is learning to work on the business rather than just in it. Many technically skilled pool pros struggle with the business side, particularly in areas like employee management, financial planning, and marketing.

Phase 4: Strategic Growth and Market Leadership (Years 6+)

Pool service professionals who successfully navigate the first three phases eventually reach a stage where they can focus on strategic growth and market positioning. In this phase, the business runs with less direct involvement from the owner, allowing for expansion, acquisition opportunities, or even franchising.

Phase 4 characteristics often include:

• Multiple crews operating independently
• Strong management team in place
• Consistent profitability and cash flow
• Market leadership position
• Opportunities for expansion or acquisition
• Focus on innovation and industry leadership

Pool professionals in this phase often become mentors to others in the industry, sharing their knowledge through speaking engagements, training programs, or consulting services. They've moved beyond surviving to truly thriving.

The Importance of Customer Selection Throughout All Phases

One crucial aspect that affects success across all phases is customer selection. The Pool Nation Podcast hosts emphasized that not all customers are worth acquiring, regardless of which phase you're in.

We talk about bringing on customers and being able to deliver great customer service but if you're bringing on customers that are you know don't care about the pool right or that treat you like the help and all that kind of stuff most likely what's going to happen is down the road there's going to be issues with those customers.

— Edgar De Jesus, Pool Nation Podcast

Developing criteria for customer selection helps pool professionals avoid problematic relationships that can drain time, energy, and profitability. This includes considering factors like:

• Pool condition and maintenance history
• Customer communication style and expectations
• Property accessibility and working conditions
• Payment reliability and financial stability
• Alignment with your company values and service model

Learning to say no to difficult customers is a skill that becomes more important as you scale your business and hire employees who will also need to work with these clients.

Preparing for Your Next Phase

Understanding these phases helps pool professionals prepare for what's coming next. If you're in Phase 1, start thinking about which additional services you might want to offer. If you're in Phase 2, begin learning about business operations and employee management. Phase 3 professionals should focus on systems and scalability.

The key is recognizing that each phase requires different skills and knowledge. Technical expertise alone won't carry you through all four phases—you'll need to continuously learn and adapt as your business grows.

Resources for phase-specific development include:

• Industry associations and continuing education programs
• Business management courses and certifications
• Mentorship from successful pool professionals in later phases
• Financial planning and business advisory services
• Industry conferences and networking events

The Pool Nation Podcast hosts regularly offer training sessions covering these different phases, helping pool professionals navigate their specific challenges and prepare for future growth.

Conclusion: Embracing Your Pool Pro Journey

Every pool service professional's journey is unique, but understanding these four phases provides a roadmap for growth and development. Whether you're just starting out or you've been in business for years, identifying your current phase helps you focus on the right priorities and prepare for future challenges.

The transition from technician to business owner isn't always smooth, but it's navigable with the right preparation and mindset. By understanding what's coming next, you can invest in the skills and knowledge you'll need to succeed at the next level.

Remember that moving through these phases isn't just about growing your business—it's about growing yourself as a professional and leader in the pool service industry. Each phase brings new challenges and opportunities, and mastering them all is what separates the truly successful pool professionals from those who struggle to scale.

As you reflect on your own journey, consider where you are today and where you want to be tomorrow. The path may be challenging, but understanding the phases of pool pro success gives you the roadmap to get there.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Events
• 05:30 Western Pool and Spa Show Classes Preview
• 12:15 Business Matrix Updates and Goal Setting
• 18:45 The Four Phases of Pool Pro Success - Overview
• 22:30 Phase 1: Technical Foundation Years
• 28:10 Phase 2: Skill Expansion Period
• 34:20 Phase 3: Business Development Stage
• 41:00 Phase 4: Strategic Growth and Leadership
• 47:15 Customer Selection Throughout All Phases