New Driveway with Grass Seed at Edge

Dissappointment

Earlier in the week a client asked for a quote to spread soil around their new drive.  I’m disappointed in myself because I almost spent more time contemplating the job than doing it.  I believe the term is analysis paralysis.

Let me explain.

When talking with the client I said I can do the job but I’d like to look at it first.

New drives are usually 2-3 inches above grade and knowing the size of their drive it was going to take a decent amount of soil.

The client said, “Go ahead and do the job, no need to give a quote.”  I appreciated the trust but I don’t like to work jobs without a quote.  It’s easy for a client and I to be on different pages.

The job was going to take 3 yards of topsoil.  Further, the soil had to be pushed uphill from the street.  I wasn’t going to park my 24,000 pound truck on a new drive to save steps.  That’s asking for tire marks and a dirty drive.

I called a friend for a reality check.  During the call I hemmed and hawed about the work involved and whether I’d get the job or not.  My friend assured me I wasn’t crazy.

My fear, based on the way business has been the last few years, was that my client was going to decline the work.

That night I called my customer, told him the investment and promptly received a go ahead.

What’s the big deal?


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Comments

2 responses to “Dissappointment”

  1. Mark Whelan Avatar
    Mark Whelan

    Wise move. It is great to check out the job first regardless of if the customer is willing to give the go ahead without a quote. One wrong move and you loose your name and reputation.
    I am glad your caution was well placed and led to a satisfying conclusion.
    When it comes to mechanical repairs I normally drop the machine off with the proviso that they go ahead if the costs are below a certain price. Above that they are to call. It works well all round.

    1. John Holden Avatar

      I agree Mark. I sometimes say it’s easier to have a disagreement before the work is done than after. I do the same thing when I drop equipment off for repairs with people I trust.