Byline: By Niandra Conrad, Home Hero News
Key Quote: “Take a sober look at the numbers before diving into new business. Know your costs, estimated revenue, and have savings to cover initial expenses.” – Brian Hall, Highland AC
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South Texas is known for its sweltering heat, and when the air conditioning goes out, it can feel like the end of the world. Enter Brian Hall, the president of Highland AC Sales and Service, who has turned cooling homes into an art form while bringing a touch of humor and warmth to the business. But Brian’s story is more than just keeping people comfortable; it’s about navigating challenges, learning from experience, and empowering his team to be the best in the industry.
Brian’s foray into the world of HVAC wasn’t by chance. With a history of building and selling service companies since he was 21, he found the transition into air conditioning a natural fit. “I love solving people’s problems, and HVAC allows me to do that while also providing livelihoods for others,” Brian shares. His latest venture, Highland AC, acquired in April 2023, is a testament to his passion for the industry and his knack for turning challenges into opportunities.
The acquisition of Highland AC came with its own set of hurdles. “Anytime you do an acquisition, your biggest challenge is understanding the actual business,” Brian explains. This includes evaluating staff, aligning them with new values, and convincing existing customers of the new management’s commitment to quality. “You have to put up the signs: Under New Management. It’s like a restaurant; people need to know there’s been a change,” he laughs.
Brian’s approach to business is both practical and insightful. “Cash flow makes everything work,” he emphasizes, stressing the importance of keeping receivables under 30 days. This meticulous attention to financial health ensures that Highland AC can reinvest in the business, pay employees promptly, and maintain top-notch service. For Brian, prompt service, invoicing, and follow-up are non-negotiable components of a successful operation.
One of the most endearing aspects of Brian’s leadership is his commitment to his team. “I’m a big believer in compensation and quality of life,” he says. He recognizes that while money is a motivator, it’s also about giving employees time off, rest, and the ability to enjoy their lives. This philosophy has cultivated a loyal and dedicated workforce that shares Highland AC’s values of honesty, integrity, and exceptional communication.
Brian’s hiring practices are straightforward but effective. “Punctuality and communication are key,” he states. He recounts with a chuckle how he evaluates potential hires by the condition of their vehicles. “If they show up in a vehicle that looks like it’s been through a war, I have to think twice about putting them in one of our company vehicles,” he jokes. This attention to detail ensures that his team members represent Highland AC’s standards of professionalism and care.
Marketing for Highland AC is rooted in community and personal connections. “I like organic marketing. We didn’t have big dollars to dump into digital marketing and ads,” Brian notes. Instead, he focuses on networking and being present at community events. “I’m the first to sponsor a homeowners association party,” he says with a grin. This hands-on approach not only builds trust but also fosters a sense of community around the Highland AC brand.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Brian’s advice is golden. “Take a sober look at the numbers before diving in. Know your costs, estimated revenue, and have savings to cover initial expenses,” he advises. He also underscores the importance of networking, sharing how his first few jobs came from personal and professional connections.
Looking ahead, Brian is focused on sustainable growth. “If you can’t keep pace with the growth you sell, you fail,” he warns. Instead of aggressive expansion, he aims to grow at a manageable rate, ensuring that Highland AC can always deliver high-quality service.
Brian Hall’s journey with Highland AC is a shining example of how resilience, a commitment to quality, and a sense of humor can turn challenges into triumphs. As he continues to grow his business, Brian remains dedicated to his team and community, embodying the spirit of a true Home Hero. His story is a reminder that with the right mindset and support, anyone can become the hero of their own story.
For those looking to start their own business, Brian’s advice is clear: Don’t fear failure. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward. Because in the end, every superhero needs a sidekick, and for many in South Texas, that sidekick is Brian Hall and Highland AC.
