When Benjamin Haugh founded All Nation Restoration in Austin, Texas, back in 2010, he was a one-man crew with a truck, a toolbox, and a relentless work ethic. Over the past 15 years, he has transformed that solo operation into a trusted, IICRC-certified restoration company, completing thousands of jobs across water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup. If you ask any of Ben’s good friends, if they have any sort of water damage, flooding or water leaks, he is the first person they
reach out to.
But perhaps the most significant transformation has been in Ben himself—not just as a technician or business owner, but as a teacher and leader.
In the early days, Ben admits his approach to training new employees was less about instruction and more about demonstration. “I used to just show them,” he recalls, “almost like I was showing off.” While his intentions were good, he realized that this method often left new hires nodding along without truly understanding the tasks at hand. If they made mistakes, they felt discouraged and hesitant to ask questions.
Recognizing the need for a more effective approach, Ben shifted his focus to fostering a supportive learning environment. He began asking, “Do you want me to teach you how to do that?” or sharing, “Hey, I was taught this the other day. Want me to show you this new trick?” This change encouraged open dialogue and made employees feel more comfortable seeking guidance.
This approach is particularly crucial in the context of water damage restoration, where understanding the nuances of water extraction and structural drying can significantly impact the outcome of a project. By fostering open communication, Ben ensures that his team is well equipped to handle the complexities of water damage repair.
At All Nation Restoration, training isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process. The company has established procedures for teaching, ensuring consistency and quality across all levels. However, Ben still takes the time for one-on-one instruction, always conducted in private to maintain the employee’s confidence. Whether it’s a hands-on task or a phone interaction, the emphasis is on respect and empowerment.
“The last thing you want is your new hire to be more nervous than they already are,” Ben explains. “You want them to retain the knowledge but also know they can ask questions.” This philosophy extends beyond technical skills to encompass customer service and interpersonal interactions.
In the realm of flood restoration services, where timely and effective response is critical, this culture of continuous learning ensures that all team members are prepared to address emergencies efficiently and compassionately.
Ben’s approach to teaching is rooted in the belief that empowering employees leads to better service and a stronger company. By treating team members with respect and providing them with the tools and knowledge they need, he fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their work. This, in turn, translates to higher-quality service for clients and a more cohesive team dynamic.
“This is bettering the company, the customer service… respect, and empowering is the way you must be,” Ben emphasizes. It’s a motto that has guided All Nation Restoration’s growth and success.
This empowerment is especially vital in scenarios involving emergency water removal, where quick decision-making and confidence in one’s abilities can make a significant difference in mitigating damage.
Ben’s journey from technician to teacher reflects a broader commitment to growth and development. His experiences have taught him that effective leadership involves more than expertise; it requires the ability to inspire and educate others. By prioritizing continuous learning and fostering a culture of empowerment, Ben has built a company that not only restores properties but also uplifts people.
As All Nation Restoration continues to serve the Austin community, Ben remains dedicated to mentoring his team and sharing his knowledge. Through his personal website, BenjaminHaugh.com, he offers business tips, marketing insights, and real-world lessons from his journey, aiming to help others navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
If you’re in need of water damage restoration services in Austin, TX, All Nation Restoration is available 24/7 to assist you. Contact them at (512) 934-8180 or visit their Contact Page to schedule a free assessment.
