Business Support Group

Comment

Comment by Colleen Del Bane~Creator~ on October 8, 2009 at 9:57am

Isn't it the truth. I used to think Honesty is the best policy and still stand by it but it sure doesn't get you anywhere anymore like it used to because so many people are willing to lie at the drop of a hat to get the job.

Comment by Mike's Sporting Goods on October 8, 2009 at 2:54am

Thanks Colleen..when you have been in business for almost 39 years it is hard to change the way you do things. Makes me think of the saying...nice guys finish last.

Comment by Colleen Del Bane~Creator~ on October 7, 2009 at 10:10am

Oh man Mike I really feel for you. I have learned the only safe way is to ask for a deposit. That way at least you get something for your time. That sucks so bad. I would report him to http://RipOffReports.comAfter all a fishing team is a business of sorts and that will let others know that he can't be trusted.

Comment by Mike's Sporting Goods on October 7, 2009 at 8:24am

Recently, a customer placed an $400.00 custom embroidered t shirt order with us for a fishing tournament. Each shirt is personalized therefore we cannot even sell them. This person has been a trusted customer for almost 5 years. Weather conditions forced the event to be canceled permanently. And guess what? The customer did not pick the shirts up and will not answer any phone calls. We did not ask for a deposit because he was a long standing customer. I know..it is our fault because we did not require a deposit.
It made me think of what Colleen went thru awhile back. Thanks for listening...I needed to vent.

Comment by Mike's Sporting Goods on April 24, 2009 at 1:41am

This a great idea. Any ideas will be appreciated!

Comment by Colleen Del Bane~Creator~ on April 15, 2009 at 3:08pm

Oh I have handled it just exactly as you put it. just to find that the lady had to leave town and had asked her daughter to make sure it was ll taken care of. the daughter forgot and just after I sent a letter stating that the website was being altered for another client. I hit send and went to check my mail only to find a letter from her daughter that was being written as I was writing mine. We shall see if this turns out okay or not. However from now on there will be a $100.00 non refundable deposit before work begins, as well as a signed contract. No more miss nice gal.

Comment by Hart's Reptile World on April 15, 2009 at 2:41pm

Greeting everyone.
Wrote about it yesterday in response to Colleen's scammer post but after that particular egregious slap in the face business wise I decided toughening up was needed.
The phrase "nice guys always finish first" doesn't necessarily apply nowadays.
There are all kinds of scammers and sometimes I really don't think people think of it that way nor how offensive they are.
Many look upon those of us not in a "traditional" business as less valuable and responsible.
We've actually been asked on many occasions over the years to donate our services "free" as they only have money to pay for the Zoo, OMSI or Wildlife Safari programs.
It's a good thing they can't read my mind and the diplomatic side comes out because I very nicely say "I hope they enjoy the Zoo, OMSI or Wildlife Safari's programs" and leave it at that.
Amazingly they must have found a money tree because in over 99% of those cases they miraculously find the money.
Serious people aren't wishy washy so think "cold-blooded" like a reptile and make it simple because if you don't think your valuable or worth the fees, why should anyone else.
No signed contract, no non-refundable 50% deposit...NO services from you!!!
It's just that simple.
There's my motivational pep talk and I didn't even charge an arm and a leg. Lol

Comment by Colleen Del Bane~Creator~ on April 14, 2009 at 8:39am

Support comes in alot of forms. Maybe just someones idea of how to do something differently can make a big difference.

Comment by Colleen Del Bane~Creator~ on April 14, 2009 at 8:36am

Well the crazy thing was that I had sent out a contract. she was to sign and return. I guess now what I need to do is practice patience. I get so excited about getting to do something creative that I go crazy, I also need to have a way to make a portfolio of my work so that I don't even need to create that first page because once I get started on the first page I go wild and can't stop, The 10% of sales is great too but there again it takes a great deal of trust and honesty. People can always lie about litter size. There comes a point that one must trust to a certain point. I am a bit naive I have always thought people were supposed to be honest like I am but I am learning time and again that it is just not true.

Comment by Ellen Miles on April 14, 2009 at 5:43am

ok - so what are we going to do about it! Colleen, ya know I love ya! Seriously. Intent makes a difference and we do want to change what comes to us but do you think we can get enough support on this group to make a difference????

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