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?
Comments
2 responses to “Dissappointment”
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.
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.