So why this guy contact me about fixing something of his. I gave him a price of how much it was going to be. And then he wanted a breakdown parts versus labor. I don’t like doing that because I know the customer is going to nickel and dime me. Sure enough he goes online and says why are you charging me x amount for this part. It only cost $30 on Amazon.
I explain why my parts cost more etc. And I don’t hear from him again. He sends me a text today asking when is the earliest I can do the job. I don’t want to do the work, I know this guy is going to be a pain in the ass. What are business appropriate reasons/ excuses I can give as to why I don’t want the business.
I always say unfortunately I am completely booked now and won’t be able to complete your job. It always works.
This is the first comment which seems actually professional and polite
Polite yes, but it’s a lie and doesn’t even remotely give the red flag client a clue. It also invites a follow up call if the client decides to wait.
When I say I don’t say it politely if that helps. I just say it plainly. But more than anything I’m not interested in a discussion, I don’t want to do the work you need done and I don’t want to talk about it.
It also sounds like a load of B.S. to most people. I have used this in the past. At least half of the time the customer just says they are willing to wait and asks to be put on the calendar in a future opening. Customers know you aren’t booked into eternity.
Wow… that sounds expensive. (Then wipe your brow with your wallet)
That’s my approach too
This is my excuse too. Sorry, my schedule has filled up since yesterday, lol.
I said this yesterday. Pain of a client we’d done work for previously and decided the money wasn’t worth it.
This is the best way to do it. Professional, polite, and doesn’t pawn them off on someone you know
This is what I would say as well. Sounds like he is in a hurry too, so he probably won’t wait around for you to open up. Good moment for a referral partner- “try x down the road”
This is the one. I always say “ I’m sorry but unfortunately I’m booked up on X date.” And if they ask for the nearest date I give it a month or two later. Don’t think I’ve ever gotten a persistent person after that. Side note, I’m a private chef so specific days are normally asked for so this may not work for everyone.