regarding ethics

[Wimblees@AOL.COM]

In a message dated 98-09-17 23:12:09 EDT, you write:

<< As the "new guy" in town, I take on almost anything that comes my
 way.  Consequently, I am not doing work on quality concert grands, etc.
 I am using my talents to garner the best from the client's piano.  To
 me, that is my duty - I feel that what they have is the best they have
 got, and should get my best, too.  That's me.
 
     Recently, a number of new clients have given me horror stories
 regarding the last person who worked on their piano.  Most often, it is
 a local person who has a high profile.  The things people recall
 include:  excessive prices, the belittling of their piano, and the
 cutting down of other piano teachers in the area because of their tuning
 frequency or piano quality.
 
     I do not wish to make any major enemies in the market as I believe
 there is plenty of various kinds of tuning to satisfy both of us.
 However, I am very uncomfortable in this discussion with the client, and
 I try my best to emphasize the other tuner's qualifications.
 
     As a teacher for over 25 years, I am very familiar with and
 supportive of our code of ethics.  As piano tuners, where do you stand,
 and where do you draw a line.  I would be very interested in the
 discussion.
 
 
 Tom Dickson,
 
 Canada
 
 PS - Despite the camaraderie that is constantly mentioned in the
 Journal, I have yet to hear from this RPT - although I have personally
 spoken to him. >>


To the last problem, first. Just because a person is a member of the PTG,
doesn't make that person someone with whom you want to associate. Not everyone
in the PTG has the same philosophy about giving the best possible service,
sharing expiences, and learning from each other. This person is jealous of
you, and problably will not want to associate with you.

How do you deal with the things he says about others, about pianos, and about
teachers? The best thing to do is to listen, but don't respond. Don't get
caught up in the negativity. If someone asks how you feel about what the other
tech said, just say you would rather not comment. Pretty soon your customers
will get the message that you are a much better person to deal with, and soon,
you'll have all the business you want. 

Willem Blees  RPT
St. Louis