When friend of The Locksmith Journal, and industry skills and qualification expert Mick Clayton misplaced his garage keys (and couldn’t access his Christmas decorations), he reached out to our very own Rob Exley. Rob, Director of The Locksmith Journal knows Tom Haigh of Top Lock is always happy to help and called him to save the day…
How did you save Christmas?
I received a call from Rob asking if I could help his friend Mick. I came and installed a new garage lock for him and saved the family from buying a new tree and everything that goes with that, as well regaining access to this vital present hiding space!
Tell us about Top Lock
My business is homebased where I have a little office and a workshop at the bottom of my garden. Currently, there are two vans dedicated to locksmith work managed by Nathan and me. Business administration is handled by my wife Kathryn, while Dan is responsible for social media marketing and website SEO.
We cover Barnsley and surrounding areas such as Sheffield, Wakefield and Pontefract. The business has been running for four years and I’m proud to say with a lot of hard work we’re doing well.
What did you do before?
I worked as an HGV technician, handling the recovery of heavy goods vehicles and buses. When drivers locked their keys in their vehicles, I frequently called a locksmith named Martin Firth from Fast Response, who became a good friend. This inspired me to delve deeper into the profession.
I purchased a combination van and spent a year acquiring necessary tools and stock, Then, I completed my training and ensured I presented myself professionally. While serving my notice period with my previous employer, I started working on weekends, before going full time. By the third week, I had completed 27 jobs in one week! The use of Facebook has significantly contributed to my success.
Business plans
In April/May next year, I may be looking to expand and take on an extra locksmith. I will look to take on someone who is keen to learn that I can train in-house. We’re getting very busy, and I don’t want to be turning down work. I would like to free up some time for the team to learn new skills so we can offer more services.
Tips for New Locksmiths
Just go for it! I believe in keeping a good stock of mechanisms and tools. I invest in them during good weeks, so I don’t have to buy during bad weeks. I prefer completing jobs on the same day without double charging customers for return visits. I aim for steady work, as small jobs often lead to bigger ones.
It’s important not to be greedy and focus on doing the best job you can at a fair price. Remember: you’re only as good as your last job! Consistently consider the quality of your craftsmanship and the condition in which you leave your work, as these factors will ultimately impact your future success.
The products I buy are often influenced by my long-term relationships. For my standard cylinders I use ASEC Vitals and for high security I use the Mila Federal 3-star range. I also buy a lot of door mechanisms and handles from Ian Miller at Handle Trade based in Royston, Barnsley. It’s often about building relationships, helping people along the way, networking and exchanging work.
Service with a Smile
It doesn’t hurt or cost anything to be friendly, polite and smile. If you’re a miserable grumpy git, and overcharge customers, they are unlikely to return. Additionally, negative experiences can spread to their family and friends, potentially harming your business. I prefer to serve my customers with a positive attitude, explain thoroughly what I am doing, and the costs involved upfront.
Marketing Top Lock
Dan looks after our social media and website SEO, as now we’re busy I just don’t have the time. I do dabble in the occasional video and sometimes they are silly such as my latest video of me falling off my kid’s scooter which went viral on social media. Facebook is a great marketing tool, and I owe much of my work to it.
01226 952989