Prices for long standing cust and little jobs

[Ian Woods]

That's my worry, I have 2 customers who will only ever use me or ask my advice on things but then call me round every November to connect Rudolph and January to disconnect him, it takes less than 5 mins, but they are the biggest gossip and tell everyone i'm amazing, don't want to upset them for that but always unsure.

 

[123]

That's my worry, I have 2 customers who will only ever use me or ask my advice on things but then call me round every November to connect Rudolph and January to disconnect him, it takes less than 5 mins, but they are the biggest gossip and tell everyone i'm amazing, don't want to upset them for that but always unsure.

For those 2 customers - if they are local I'd let go as a loss leader. 5 minutes of your time, a bit of a chat with them and they will give everyone that asks your number.

For the others...how frequent are the jobs now? How often do they pass your number out? And when they do, does the other person know and expect a similar charge for something?

 

[richy3333]

Those sort get my 6 month waiting list quote 'I'd love to help you, you are a valuable customer but I'm snowed under and... - else I send the apprentice. I send out revised business terms each January. Allows me to alter prices and any T&C's.

Once had someone ask me to fix their cooker in return for half a dozen eggs. They were an hours drive away!

 

[PEG]

Hi,if you are still doing fine,after ten years,then you have already been making,mostly the right decisions

You should approach the question asked,from the other end...
if you are continuing to deal with these small customers - then you are happy,with the arrangement.

There has to be a reciprocal link. They could be good PR,friends,family...or just be in a good spot,for a sign-written van

Remember,we are dealing with that most peculiar,unpredictable entity - the human. Some of those long-term customers,may wonder why you have not increased prices,and not worry. Some will spit the dummy out. There are those that may have other "issues" going on,and resist change,by telling everyone,you upped things because your're struggling/drinking/gambling....

My point is,you can please some of the people,some of the time....

My personal aim,if any of these customers are in contact with each other,would be to keep things the same with some,and up the charges to the lesser minions .... they will be so involved,trying to work out the reasons,you will bypass the bulk of the flak

....Hang on,that sounds like the phone.....I'm wanted in Brussels....