I haven’t always been a small business owner, nor in sales, so a lot of the education I’ve had in these past 6 years has been about things other than landscape design.  What I have been for decades is a consumer.  I like to spend my money at clean, organized places and with people who are personable, smile at me and seem to be paying attention.

My frustration of late is clients who will not return calls or emails.  I go and meet with a client.  Generally, the initial meeting ends with me saying that I will follow up by email and also giving them a time frame.  And then I honor what I’ve said.  And then, I’m left waiting.  I say, straight out to clients, “Please reply to my email.   If you decide not to go with me, please just let me know.  (smile)  This is business, it’s not personal.  I promise not to be hurt.”  And the client will nod and say, “Oh, of course, absolutely.”  And I wait…and wait and wait.  I don’t mean to sound peevish.  Is it so hard to just reply quickly with, “Thanks for the proposal.  We are using someone else.”  I would so prefer to get that than to send out two or three emails and wondering what’s up.

On the other side of that coin, recently, I’ve been trying to get some work done at my house.  I’ve had my contractors over and told them the work.  They send a bid and I make a choice and let them all know.  And then nothing!  And then I have to call a contractor and ask do they want my money or not.  I hear the economy is tough and yet, I have to push someone to take my dollars.  Sheesh!

I don’t mean to grouse.  I just wish there could be better communication.  These are really simple things, basic courtesy.

On the positive side, I have a surprise that I will be able to share next week.  Check back then!  Something YOU can participate in and get to see some great stuff, right here in Tucson.

For further information about landscape design and improving your exterior spaces, contact Rachel Gioannini, Casa Serena Landscape Designs at 520-955-1861 or www.casaserenadesigns.com

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