In a message dated 2/21/99 5:04:33 PM Pacific Standard Time, markbolsius@optusnet.com.au writes: << Dave, IMHO you should never discount your work in an effort to gain more. You should be charging what makes you feel comfortable for what you are doing. I know there are mitigating circumstances....local economic situation, competitive markets etc, but if you can, just get in there and don't be afraid to charge what you know you need to make to help you *enjoy* your work....giving your customer good value for money. There is nothing more soul-destroying than having to work for less than you deserve, and when that happens you tend to work to what you are being paid, if that's less then you tend to work at a lower standard. I followed some advice from an older tuner some years ago, which was to *raise* your prices to increase your work! He was endeavouring to decrease his workload by increasing his prices.....logical huh....but no his work increased each time! Go figure. But it works! The other thing that I find helps is to be booked up for weeks in advance, people suspect that you must be good if you're that busy and will make appointments even at higher prices.......I'm sure this has been dealt with in the past on the list so I'll leave it there Mark Bolsius I agree with you 100%, Mark. I never lower my prices to get another job. I stay busy with what I charge so why lower in order to get more work? There are exceptions like some school and multiple piano contracts I service. Referals I discount a one time $5 for the individual referring my service if I do the job. I believe my skills are worth what I charge and if a price shopper calls me, they will always find someone cheaper. But you get what you pay for. I did raise my prices after the 1st of the year and you are right, I have never lost any work when it happens. I am still busy as ever, but I do breath easier after the Chrismas rush. No holiday discount! Dave Peake, RPT Oregon City, OR Portland Chapter
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