Warning Will Robinson, Danger Ahead!

"I want you to know up front I'm a perfectionist. The last three painters who worked for me were just awful! We have had nothing but bad experiences with contractors! I sure hope you're different."

"I never give a deposit up front. I will pay you at the end of the job, when and if I'm happy."

" If I pay you cash will you give me a discount? Also, can you make the invoice out under my business name? Let's call it painting of my office, ok? "

What you see posted above are danger signs! They can reveal a lot about a person. For example, if a client has had a problem with everyone who ever worked for them. It may not be everyone who was at fault. I once had a client start off this way and I latter found out she had been taken to court by 10 different clients for not paying her bills. She would have the work preformed and then complain about the quality. She won 4 out of the six cases I looked up. What she had discovered was that you can get a free job if you just set a standard so high no one can ever meet it. I ended up getting 60% of the settlement she owed us after taking her to small claims. We still say her name under our breath when we run into a difficult client.

The second example is scary also! If you have a problem collecting the first check, how easy do you think the second one will be. This shows a person who wants to be in control and lacks trust. If you take on a client like this you may also want to join the circus. They will soon have you jumping through hoops!

The third example is also dangerous. Why? They lack honesty from the get go! If they are not honest with the government what makes you so sure they will be honest with you? Problems will often surface after the job starts. "No, I remember very clearly you said that was included." But, you know darn well it was never even talked about.

The lesson in all of this is try to learn to read your potential clients. When you see red flags don't just brush them aside. You may end up working for free. IF you decide to take on a client like the ones mentioned above despite your better judgment then here is what I suggest! Don't! If you still feel you must then add a little something to the bid I refer to as pain and suffering!

Contributed by: David S Martin of www.davespainting.com

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