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CE Profile of Excellence: Patty Jakos, The Sound Shop

Patty Jakos, vice president of The Sound Shop, says it's important to let customers do most of the talking.


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If you had to use Twitter to describe what your company does (140 character limit), what would you write?
The Sound Shop caters to audio and video enthusiasts with a mix of classic components, cutting edge technology, and a remarkably experienced staff.

After you complete a project, what do you think your typical client tells his friend about the experience?
How easy it was. That our installers took the time to explain the operation and answer questions, and how competitive we are with the chain stores.

In the interest of improving the industry, what can your fellow CE pros learn from your company or your experiences that might make them think differently and run their business better?
Every customer must feel important- listen to them! Most customers do not want technical babble – ask questions, and really listen to their answers. They should do most of the talking.

The Sound Shop
Name: Patty Jakos
Title: vice president
Location: Colorado Springs, CO
Web site: http://www.the-sound-shop.com
Years in business: 21
Number of employees: 12
Number of installations in 2010: 76 in 2009
Residential/commercial split: 90%-10%
Top three brands: Sony, Paradigm and Integra
What unique trade tip (installation or business) can you offer your fellow CE pros?
Nothing unique - but follow-up, follow-up, follow-up. It’s ok to call a previous customer just to say hi and thank-you. Teach your customers to refer you.

What’s the wildest request you’ve ever had for an installation?
A customer wanted to hang a TV on ropes and pulleys from a 20-foot ceiling. Very Mickey Mouse - we passed.

What is your 3D strategy and do you think it will live up to the hype?
Our strategy is to actively engage as many people as possible with 3D, and let them decide. We recently took Sony 3D TV to a home show, with very positive results. Everyone smiled when they put the glasses on, even if they were initially skeptical. We hosted the Mitsubishi 3D Roadshow in our parking lot earlier this year, and we are featuring the new Sony 3D projector at our annual fall technology event. We also have several 3D demos set up in the store. It may not live up to the hype, but it’s fun! Now we just need content.

What is your absolute favorite piece of audio demo material and why?
Everyone here has their own favorites. We use a mix of music and movies to show off the equipment’s capabilities. We tell the customer what they should be listening for, and then let them hear it.

What is your absolute favorite piece of video demo material and why?
Animated movies like “Cars” are great for demo’s. The colors are absolutely brilliant, and the sound effects are fun and exciting. When we’re not actively doing a demo, our default is the food network. It always looks so yummy!

What is something about you that most people don’t know?
If I tell you, then everyone will know.

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