ruff
Member
As an O/O that is very concerned about his business' reputation, I diligently practice the art of the "well tuned antennas". In other words: I always listen carefully to potential new clients, making sure not to ignore red flashing warning signs. In my experience if the client sound like he/she is going to be trouble, I'd rather not do the job. It just ain't worth it. Through the years I learned not to ignore my gut feelings.
About six months ago I dealt with a client that had some issues with previous cleaner (first red flag). We corresponded and nothing happened. A few weeks ago she contacted me again and we were trying to find the right time. I asked for her address (to schedule when I'm in the neighborhood) she provide her neighborhood but wouldn't give me her address. I asked for it a few times through emails and she ignored my requests. Freaked me out. Beside the self evident, (how am I going to show up at your place, mam? Should I have to use the services of Madam Zadora the psychic again?
).
Been doing this for twenty seven years, never had a client refuse to give me their address. I guess there's a first for anything. I put her on my "to avoid" list.
A few weeks later she called again. I couldn't do it immediately and really tried to refer her to someone else. She asked me directly: "Are you trying to avoid working for me?"
Since she was that direct I said: "Well......actually, yes." and explained why. She apologized and I had to decide on the fly (while driving) if I am to violate my red flag policy or not. Decided to keep an open mind and did schedule it. Not without real concern. Freak me out once, shame on you, freak me out twice shame on me kind of logic.
Got a Yelp review today:
In case you were wondering, she did give me her address
About six months ago I dealt with a client that had some issues with previous cleaner (first red flag). We corresponded and nothing happened. A few weeks ago she contacted me again and we were trying to find the right time. I asked for her address (to schedule when I'm in the neighborhood) she provide her neighborhood but wouldn't give me her address. I asked for it a few times through emails and she ignored my requests. Freaked me out. Beside the self evident, (how am I going to show up at your place, mam? Should I have to use the services of Madam Zadora the psychic again?
). Been doing this for twenty seven years, never had a client refuse to give me their address. I guess there's a first for anything. I put her on my "to avoid" list.
A few weeks later she called again. I couldn't do it immediately and really tried to refer her to someone else. She asked me directly: "Are you trying to avoid working for me?"
Since she was that direct I said: "Well......actually, yes." and explained why. She apologized and I had to decide on the fly (while driving) if I am to violate my red flag policy or not. Decided to keep an open mind and did schedule it. Not without real concern. Freak me out once, shame on you, freak me out twice shame on me kind of logic.
Got a Yelp review today:
- 11/19/2016
It took Ofer and I a while to get a mutually convenient date for an appointment but the wait was well worth it. I brought him in to do the nearly impossible: bring back to life our terribly stained TV room sofa. He more than exceeded my expectations and perhaps his own too. He is careful, thoughtful, and clearly dedicated to getting the best outcome from his efforts. I'd highly recommend using him for upholstery and rug cleaning services.
Thanks, Ofer!
In case you were wondering, she did give me her address
