Shaken down by a school

[Hollands]

So just finished a pretty big job at a school. Was a tricky job and had to price very shrewdly (if i may say so myself) to get it. The job went well and the invoice is in the post and blah blah blah. Got a call from the secretary asking if i wanted to advertise on the school newsletter. I dont really work in the area and to be honest i dont think i will gain much work. The problem is shes rung me about 3 times in the last 3 days asking why I wont advertise and is really putting the pressure on. Its a pretty small advertising fee compared to my invoice, but i really dont want it. Do i just get it and treat it as a donation or stand my ground? I know the school has had a few different contractors in to do the trees over the years and they like to let you know they are getting other quotes, but there is definateley a bit more work to be done there at some stage. Or am i just being a tightass?

[Bald Ed]

:banghead:I think the school is being a bit pushy, surely no means no not try me again tomorrow

[Lurcherman]

Hi Hollands.

 

Take the advertising, if it is a realatively small fee.

 

School newsletters are read by other family members of the kids, they may live in areas that you cover and, as long as you're the only tree firm in there, you may gain a bit of kudos and be seen as 'the school's tree contractor'

 

You have obviously left a good impression as they keep contacting you, capitalise on that and expand you operation into other areas.

 

Also, school's staff talk to other school's staff, if you're seen as the best contractor for this type of work, other school gates may open!

[Hollands]

Hi Hollands.

 

Take the advertising, if it is a realatively small fee.

 

School newsletters are read by other family members of the kids, they may live in areas that you cover and, as long as you're the only tree firm in there, you may gain a bit of kudos and be seen as 'the school's tree contractor'

 

You have obviously left a good impression as they keep contacting you, capitalise on that and expand you operation into other areas.

 

Also, school's staff talk to other school's staff, if you're seen as the best contractor for this type of work, other school gates may open!

 

I have started to think along those lines aswell. Its only $150 for the year. Just hate being pushed into these things. Thanks for the advice

[timtree81]

do it ,work will slow down over xmas

[Lee Winger]

If you ask me the secretary should be concentrating on more important issues, like the school! boody cheek imo

[DrewB]

stop being tight holland!!

[WeeDee]

If you can afford the £150, give it a go for this year. Keep an eye on the future jobs linked directly to this advert and at the end of the period - add your sums up? Remember - these people talk to other people!

Good luck with your final decision.

[Hollands]

stop being tight holland!!

 

Thats half a ropeguide mate

[DrewB]

stop being tight, buy the ad and then buy a ropeguide