I’ve encountered a variety of different opportunities where some are similar and some are very different. North American Power is one that is a little different from the rest.
Greg Plum is the owner of Plum Energy Group, and a broker with North American Power. We need energy to keep things running in our homes and businesses. Greg has made it his business to help people like us save and make money in this industry, too.
I recently asked Greg a few questions about both companies and what they offer.
Tell us a little about Plum Energy Group and North American Power.
I started Plum Energy Group as the culmination of 20 years in business, ranging from finance, real estate, and telecommunications. North American Power enables everyday people to earn a residual income by simply switching their energy supplier and telling their friends and family. In an unprecedented move, NAP eliminated all costs to get started. To get involved, an opportunity seeker only needs to switch their supplier and start saving. There is no cost to change supplier and the customer will continue to be invoiced and supported by their current utility.
What lead you to energy?
I have been interested in energy since discovering the overlap with the telecommunications industry. I created and developed a comprehensive wholesale sales program in the conferencing and collaboration industry. This business grew to hundreds of independent agents selling my services and earning lucrative commissions.
How long have you been working in this field?
To be frank, I am new to this industry. I have worked in the telecommunications industry for over 10 years. The overlap between telecommunications and energy has become very strong and intuitive for businesses. Residential energy is just another component of the business that is effectively supported by NAP.
What inspired you to become a broker with North American Power?
North American Power offers strong leadership, a first-class website for customer sign-ups, and an aggressive compensation package. The program changed since I joined the company, with the elimination of the sign-up fee altogether, which completely removes any barrier to entry into this business.
What does this business opportunity entail?
It really does not get any more simple or straightforward. Sign up as a customer, at no cost. You will then be provided with access to your own website to educate prospective customers of the benefits of changing their energy supplier to NAP.
What separates them from the competition?
NAP offers the following which were requirements when I was searching for an energy company to represent: a. residential and commercial products; b. green energy options; c. a professional website with an intuitive call to action for the consumer; d. and most importantly, they are an energy company, not a marketing company.
Do you have any goals you would like to accomplish over the next year or so?
I am not looking to build a business of hundreds in the short term. I prefer to help 20 people over the next 12 months. A small, stable base of representatives can be more powerful than a large base of semi-engaged individuals.
What are some lessons your business has taught you?
Never ignore peripheral opportunities. I spent the last decade aggressively growing a communications business, without considering additional revenue sources that were related to my core business. Energy provides the perfect complement to communications sales, as both are considered utilities.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
My business is a living and breathing entity. If anyone is interested in exploring ways to work in the energy field, I encourage them to reach out to me to see if we have a fit.
Do you have any advice you would like to offer fellow entrepreneurs who are just getting started?
When you get overwhelmed with everything that needs to be done and the enormity of what you are trying to accomplish, step back and focus on the basics. Relationships drive everything in business. This is why people buy from you… it is not price, your knowledge, your products… it is the relationship (or prospect of a relationship) with you. Make this your focus… one relationship at a time.