Behind the Business
About the Business
Thiele Heating & Air Conditioning
John Traub, Owner
Founded in 1883
Located at 2468 N Butler Ave., Indianapolis, IN
BBB Accredited for 57 years
“Earning and returning money to our economy. Locally owned since 1883.”
Q&A
What do you consider your business’s proudest accomplishment so far?
“Watching young people grow, buy houses and raise a family. Knowing we can proudly wear the Thiele logo.”
How do you foster trust with your customers and employees?
“Just be open and honest. Sounds simple because it is. The team mentions to me and others, “I really like working in an environment where we are not pressured to do anything other than what’s right.”
How do you approach challenges or setbacks when they arise?
“They are both going to happen. Do not hide from either. We say, ‘it’s OK to make a mistake, we’ll address it, make it right, learn from it and move on.”
What role has community involvement played in your company’s growth or culture?
“It’s all community. We love hearing customers say “you’re still with the company (insert many names here) you put my furnace in 15 years ago” or parents recommending us to their children.”
What’s a simple piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting a business today?
“Read every successful businessperson’s book. Read the top leadership books. Read the how successful business brands were built. No time for fiction, just real-life stories.”
What’s one way your BBB Accreditation has added value to your business?
“It’s a great asset because if there ever is needed resolution you have an impartial panel to mediate. It should never come to this but it really is a great safety net for the consumer.”
Outside of work, what’s something you’re passionate about that others might not know?
“I coached in the Catholic Youth Organization for 27-30 years and I learned much more than I taught. “
