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While you’re here . . . would you mind?

November 23, 2008 Written by Robert Robillard 1 Comment

Image: devils–den.blogspot.com

I wish I had a dollar for every time a customer said, “Oh, while you’re here would you mind doing . . . “
 
Would you mind doing is usually followed by, hanging a heavy picture on a wall, un-sticking a window, fixing a broken door knob, moving something very heavy, etc.,
 
It can also mean a whole new project – which is usually good!
 
Some customers I work for are not handy at all and I have become accustomed to expecting a little “while you here, would you mind doing” . . . In my opinion it’s good for business.
 
Alot of carpenters I’ve spoken to resent this and feel that the customer is trying to get a freebee out of them. I look at it a different way.  Most people that I deal with on carpentry projects are women. It’s been my experience that these “little items” are a real big deal to them, have been bothering them for some time and are also an excellent customer service opportunity for me.
 
As long as the “while you’re here” request does not consume a huge amount of my time off the original project, I think it’s a great opportunity for me to forge friendships, build referrals and excel at customer service!
 
So next time your asked, “while you’re here, would you mind . . .”
Just smile and say, sure!
 
 
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Concord Carpenter

Who is Concord Carpenter?    ~ Robert Robillard is editor of A Concord Carpenter and principal of a carpentry and renovation business located in Concord, Massachusetts. Rob is a recognized leader in tool and how-to information for building professionals, he also hosts the Concord Carpenter Cable TV Show, offering the do-it-yourself audience in Boston's Meto West region expert advice on home repairs and maintenance. On his website, Rob covers all aspects of home improvement and remodeling, specializing in problem solving for home maintenance. Rob enjoys evaluating and reviewing tools and products and restoring vintage tools. The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!":

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Filed Under: Customer Service, Job Referrals, Managing Time / Productivity, Noteworthy Products

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  1. contractor referrals says:
    June 29, 2012 at 9:59 am

    [...] from the referring clients who may need more work done.  We all know that one right . . .”While you’re here would you also do this?”      The free two hours also separates you from what everyone else is doing.   [...]

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