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"FREE ESTIMATES" Why do people want these famous words on business cards,advertisments,magnetics,truck lettering,or anything else pretaining to their business.I've never charged to give an estimate.Here in WS if you ask for a fee to give an estimate,these people would tell you to take a hike.My feelings for estimate charges is a bit overboard.Do business people think if they don't feature this proposal their chances of getting an order is zero.Do you guys think using this sales tactic is the magic solution to a sale. Could this be a Hidden Cost or a Surcharge on the invoice if you do make the sale?
-------------------- Bill Wood Bill Wood, Sign Artist 3628 Ogburn Ave., NE Winston-Salem, NC 27105-3752 336-682-5820 Posts: 397 | From: Winston-Salem, NC | Registered: May 2006
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Free is just a word that says a business is hungry for new clients.
One time I was doing Taco Bells and they wanted "FREE DRINK REFILLS" on the windows. I did the Free in white base coat and then a box for the refills. As I was doing the rest of the store, the word FREE was up there for maybe 15 minutes with no explanation. People in the drive thru lane were yelling out at me, "Hey, What's FREE?" I yelled back, "FREE BEER!" The repsonse was universally loved, however everyone knew it was just a joke. At that point I saw how powerful the word FREE is.
-------------------- Preston McCall 112 Rim Road Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501 text: 5056607370 Posts: 1552 | From: Santa Fe, New Mexico | Registered: Nov 1998
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As Preston said, "FREE", gets their attention. Most trade businesses, (ie. roofers, construction, etc.), usually give the initial consultation, as we do, for free. Not only does this give the customer better service, but it allows the customer to get comfortable with the business. However, I like to think of it as an interview for my interest in mind. Any client that seems high maintenence or too cheap, I can always cut the tie without a time consuming proposal. I love the sign in the local pub that reads, "Free beer, tomorrow!"...It's always a day away.
-------------------- Keith Jenicek Artisan Signs St. Louis, MO
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