How do you guys feel about poaching?

[Paul Jenks]

I like some of the comment on business practice, and the bit about smearing butter, or was that on another forum?

My brother told me some years ago to develop a professional relationship with my clients not a financial one. It can be a challenge to get your head around, especially if you're struggling for work, and the thread of his arguement was to show what you will deliver and how it will benefit them. If they are focussing on the price can you validly call them a client as they may well drop you if they get a lower quote.

Get them to buy into you and your business, metaphorically speaking, and the price of work becomes secondary. Don't bother to try to compete on price as there will always be someone who'll do it cheaper.

As for poaching clients. If I allow another company to carry out works for one of 'my clients' I lost them and they won them. My fault.

[Frank]

Often when I see other Firms working in my area,I call round later on and enquire wether the Home owner is happy with the job.Normally the answer is yes,so I then produce my mobile Credit Card machine and ask if they would like to make immediate payment for a 10% discount.

 

There is less risk involved than actually Stealing Things and you get the money Straight away!

 

Hahahahahaha amazing.

[nick channer]

i look in all local papers every week under plannin apps and any with tree work in get one of my leaflets in post to them.. no different to gettin inundated with letters leaflets etc from builders, groundworkers, roofers, window fitters and decorators when i applied for an extension on my house..alls fair in love and tree work..