FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I'm still learning about pricing. I know when I first started I was way high. But I think now, I've got an understanding of how things are going. I'm not saying I don't overprice every now and then, but usually when I do it's because of something in the request that I've read or I've seen (if I went to look at the job first), or possibly weekend or late work. I know if you need me North of the James River late in the day (rush hour) any day of the week, I'm going to be a little higher, due to the fact that I'll be in traffic heading back South which will add 30 minutes minimum (with no accidents, or rain, or snow) to my time. If you feel I'm a little high but maybe you like something about me, please ask me to discuss price. I'll give you a break down of why my price is the way it is. Maybe I'm assuming something that isn't going to be an issue and you can help me get a better picture of what is going on. If so, maybe we can reach a price that we are both happy with.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Through Thumbtack, I read your request and send you a price based on what you've provided. If you agree to the price, we set up a day and time for the work. However, sometimes the information is to vague. For example: I need 2-4 lights installed in my kitchen. What type of lights? How many switches? Do I need to run power from the box? etc., etc. I really don't like asking for more information or to schedule a day and time to come look at the project and talk to the customer to find out EXACTLY what his needs are, ONLY because I still have to pay for that and so far I haven't gotten many jobs from it. I'm sure someone is giving a price that's low enough, so they go with that person. I don't like the unknown. The unknown is usually expensive.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
No formal training or education. Just years of experience on different types of jobs with different companies. Technical center for residential wiring certificate, worked over 25 years (off and on) as bowling center facilities manager, 7 years in HVAC field, 7 years in production. I'm very hands on and mechanically knowledgeable, I know how to use hand and power tools, I'm not afraid to read the directions on something, but most importantly, from the bowling industry I know lots of tradesmen. If I have a problem, there is always someone for me to call for help or advise.