Business Advice Needed

[joyfool]

Please.

So, as I am flat broke and coasting along on my meager savings, now is the time to find some other job besides caregiving. As such, I have decided to start my own (small) business and I'm turning to you, Raffers, for help.

It's nothing fancy or exciting, but will allow me enough flexibility to still do other things I feel are important (like volunteering) and provide leeway when my mental health becomes a bit unstable. Therefore [duh duh DUH!!], I'll be cleaning houses and running errands for folks. I'll try to hit the highlights of everything I've thought of so far, but I'm sure there's things I'll forget. The questions will be at the end.

• I already have a name for it.

• I plan on becoming bonded, although I'm not 100% certain on what that entails.

• I'm going to get a dedicated Tracfone to keep up with my customers.

• As such, I'll also be getting me some of those '250 FREE business cards' you see touted all over the place online.

• Similarly, there'll be flyers to put up wherever anyone will let me.

• Also, I've bought a dozen scrub tops for something like $2.50 a piece, and when they arrive, will have them lettered with my business name.

• I'll make a Facebook page devoted to it.

• I'll be offering various discounts: for seniors, frequent flyers, specials (like a really truncated package -- super cheap and fast to appeal to those who don't have a lot of time or money), and for more "likes" to my Facebook advertising, I'll give away some freebies occasionally

• I'll have references.

• I'm also planning on offering services a la carte. I'm going to laminate sheets for my regular customers of extras that they can request and then leave for me the next time I come.

• Initial cleanings will receive Thank You cards and anything to do with your bed, little treats. ❤️

• I give in-home estimates.

• I will be sensitive to allergies or other requirements and get them noted up front.

• And I've downloaded an app just to specifically keep up with everything business related. I can't be missing / late for appointments, etc. and it'll be good to remember that Mrs. Carlisle's dog is named Muffy.


I think that's it for now. Here's where I need help........

1. I'd like to keep my cleaning supplies simple, as good as possible but not so expensive I can't afford them and few. Obviously, I'll need glass cleaner, furniture polish, an all purpose cleaner, something for the toilet / bath / sink, stain remover, Febreeze, floor wax, multiple kinds of towels, a decent mop and vacuum, and bucket. Anything else? Suggestions for the best kinds? Oh, and it's a big deal to me for it to smell clean. Since I was a kid, I associate that with Pine Sol.

2. Any specific cleaning tips? I used to do this right out of high school, but then I had help and I was pretty all over the place. Obviously, I clean my own home, but I'd really like to do it well for others. Plus, any time shortcuts, while still retaining quality, would be nice.

3. Any other ideas for marketing? Just telling folks my thoughts thus far has elicited positive comments, but that's just a small portion of folks. Maybe you guys could help me come up with more ways to reach people. More discount ideas are also helpful.

4. Once I'm up and flying, I may have to come back and beg for tax assistance. I know business pay a pretty steep income tax percentage, so I'd like to get on that right away. I also know I need to keep up with expenses and mileage. But for now, I'm just trying to get my feet wet.

And 5. isn't a question, but a good report. As of today, I landed my first job (yay!) and it's a multi-parter. Not only did I score that, but I talked my way right into a bitty side job too. So I'm on my way. I'm so excited!

Any help you guys can give me will be soooooo helpful. I appreciate you if you made it this far. Thanks!

[AuntiePam]

That's an awesome idea. You've put a lot of thought into this, and if you were in my area, I'd hire you in a heartbeat.

I'd skip the Pine-Sol. Pine-Sol = gas station toilets. I use Mr. Clean with Febreze -- the scent is fresh, not overpowering.

Mop -- I have a Spin-Mop and while the bucket is kinda cumbersome, it does a great job, and you won't strain any muscles getting the mop wrung out.

For vacuums, I have a $60 bagless Hoover and it works just fine.

You'll need your own trash bags in various sizes.

Somewhere down the line when you have a logo, get one of those magnetic signs and slap it on your car. But make sure your car is clean, inside and out.

Get some little magnetic fridge signs to give to people along with your business card.

I think bonding is done through an insurance company. Talk to the people you have your car/home insurance with.

Will you need a business license?

I've never had a business so take this for what it's worth -- why start with discounts? When I see "discount", I never think I'm really getting a discount. I think that the company was over-charging and the discount reflects the actual cost. I'd discount regular customers after you've been in business for awhile, but I wouldn't start with it. Full price means you put some value on your time.

I watch Judge Judy. Not many house-cleaners end up in her court but a lot of small business owners do. So put things in writing -- what you'll do and what it costs and when payment is due. Will you be billing people or will they be expected to pay on the day of service?

[joyfool]

Originally Posted by AuntiePam

That's an awesome idea. You've put a lot of thought into this, and if you were in my area, I'd hire you in a heartbeat.

Aw. Thank you! I've always believed that if you have to be a ditch digger, be the best ditch digger you can be. And I'm looking forward to meeting lots of new people.

I'd skip the Pine-Sol. Pine-Sol = gas station toilets. I use Mr. Clean with Febreze -- the scent is fresh, not overpowering.



Mop -- I have a Spin-Mop and while the bucket is kinda cumbersome, it does a great job, and you won't strain any muscles getting the mop wrung out.



For vacuums, I have a $60 bagless Hoover and it works just fine.



You'll need your own trash bags in various sizes.

This is exactly the advice I need. Who knew that Pine Sol was outdated, so I'm very grateful for that tidbit. And a spin-mop sounds perfect. I'll be getting the vacuum tomorrow, so I'll check into that. I definitely want something light, with no bags and not a lot of outlay right at the beginning, so that's right up my alley. As to bags, I'll get more at Costco.

Somewhere down the line when you have a logo, get one of those magnetic signs and slap it on your car. But make sure your car is clean, inside and out.



Get some little magnetic fridge signs to give to people along with your business card.

Ooooh, yes! I've ordered something similar in the past for a relative, so I'm all over that.



[qote]I think bonding is done through an insurance company. Talk to the people you have your car/home insurance with.



Will you need a business license?[/quote]

I'll put that on my list of things to check in the morning. Someone said you go through the county courthouse, but I also thought insurance.

I've never had a business so take this for what it's worth -- why start with discounts? When I see "discount", I never think I'm really getting a discount. I think that the company was over-charging and the discount reflects the actual cost. I'd discount regular customers after you've been in business for awhile, but I wouldn't start with it. Full price means you put some value on your time.

In my area, there's nothing people like better than a "deal," a reason to justify an expense they really could do without. And house cleaners here are a dime a dozen, so standing apart from the crowd is important. So, when I make my flyers, it'll have regular prices and to get a discount, they'll have to fit into a category. Like the elderly, etc. If not, it's full price. That way, I'll get a little extra good will and word of mouth will spread. I hope.

I watch Judge Judy. Not many house-cleaners end up in her court but a lot of small business owners do. So put things in writing -- what you'll do and what it costs and when payment is due. Will you be billing people or will they be expected to pay on the day of service?

Same day payment. I'm sure long term, when I trust someone and they're regular, I might work out a deal around payments, but that's a long time coming.



Thank you so much! These are excellent suggestions. I so appreciate your help.

[ryevermouthbitters]

Originally Posted by faithfool

1. I'd like to keep my cleaning supplies simple, as good as possible but not so expensive I can't afford them and few. Obviously, I'll need glass cleaner, furniture polish, an all purpose cleaner, something for the toilet / bath / sink, stain remover, Febreeze, floor wax, multiple kinds of towels, a decent mop and vacuum, and bucket. Anything else? Suggestions for the best kinds? Oh, and it's a big deal to me for it to smell clean. Since I was a kid, I associate that with Pine Sol.

2. Any specific cleaning tips? I used to do this right out of high school, but then I had help and I was pretty all over the place. Obviously, I clean my own home, but I'd really like to do it well for others. Plus, any time shortcuts, while still retaining quality, would be nice.

On these two combined, regular white vinegar can substitute for an awful lot of cleaning products at a tiny fraction of the cost. Window and porcelain cleaning in particular, but also for lime buildup in the tub, carpet stains, lots of stuff (some in conjunction with baking soda). If necessary, find some mild colorings that won't ruin whatever you use it on and put different colors in little spray bottles so it looks like you're using all sorts of stuff. If your local grocery doesn't have vinegar by the gallon, an ethnic grocery will and some will have 6% vinegar, just a little stronger than the food stuff.

3. Any other ideas for marketing? Just telling folks my thoughts thus far has elicited positive comments, but that's just a small portion of folks. Maybe you guys could help me come up with more ways to reach people. More discount ideas are also helpful.

Counterintuitively, I'd say go a little lighter on the discounting, or at least make sure someone doesn't see too many in one place. If you discount for too many folks everyone will figure that's your *real* price and they'll feel ripped off if they have to pay the full price. I'd stick what you've got and maybe an introductory price and a "hoarder special."

Good luck!

[Peeking Duck]

A friend of mine once started a housecleaning business. She lived within easy driving distance of a very upscale neighbourhood, and right off the bat she targeted that area. She studied up on how to clean "expensive" surfaces, i.e. marble, and ivory piano keys, and oh, honestly I don't remember what else, but she made mention of her expertise on her flyers and during interviews and she picked up a lot of clients who were relieved to know that she wasn't going to damage their beloved things.

I see a housecleaning business pop up in my Facebook feed once in a while, and I'm always impressed with the things that they post. They're fun, and upbeat. Also, they frequently mention that they clean things in addition to houses, such as boats, RVs, and even stables. I've sent you an invitation to "like" them on Facebook.

Good luck with this!

[joyfool]

Thank you both! I think I now grasp better what you all are talking about with too many discounts, and in that light, I believe I'll just go with the few I have now, plus the introductory offer. That's an awesome and I feel really remiss for not thinking of it.

rmb, I'm glad you mentioned making my own supplies. I'd thought of that, but had wondered if folks would prefer smells they're used to. Lord knows though, if this does well, I'm sure I'll be going through a lot and could use any savings I can rustle up. Thank you.

Sorry I forgot to mention this early, but now ms. duck has brought it up...... I'll be mostly working in slightly under to slightly above (maybe) middle class. My focus will be on older people and in areas where it's mostly RVs and mobile home. Hell, we don't even have many apartments around here. So, I'm not sure if I'd have much opportunity to work on expensive materials, however, the general point is a really good one. I need to find a specialty that I can list as a hook. Too, too terrific! Thank you.

And I'll be looking for those Facebook invites. See how the professionals do it.

Thanks again, all!

[Random Precision]

I wish you much luck, starting a business is tough. One thing you didn't mention was the accounting side of things. Make sure you understand the tax rules, federal, state and local, involved with owning your own business and what can and can't be counted as a legitimate business expense. Small business owners, especially sole proprietorships, are a prime target for IRS audits. So keep careful track of your income and outgo.

About making your own supplies, I wish I remembered more about this, but many years ago Johnny Carson had a guest on his show who had been a housecleaner for a jillion years or so and had written a book about it. It had lots of tips and tricks that professionals used, but the only one I remember is the DIY glass cleaner she used. It was distilled water with a little rubbing alcohol added. It dries quickly because of the alcohol and streak free because of the distilled water and you can make a gallon of the stuff for a lot less than any prepared window cleaner. I've tried it in my windshield washers and it really does a great job.

[Peeking Duck]

Originally Posted by faithfool

... My focus will be on older people and in areas where it's mostly RVs and mobile home...

I have an elderly neighbour who receives government-subsidized "home care". Once a week someone comes to her house to do general cleaning, but the workers are not allowed to dust because of fear of breakage (of knickknacks and ornaments, etc.). Er, to be clear, I mean that the workers are forbidden to dust by the government agency. If any such services-with-restrictions are in place where you are, you might find a few clients who need only "very light duties" performed, which maybe you could offer at a reduced rate. I know that your time is valuable; I'm just kicking around some ideas.

[Solfy]

Plain old ammonia water is a great cleaner for many surfaces, is dirt cheap, and deodorizes as well.

Consider that some clients will want you to use their cleaning supplies or equipment so that other people's dirt isn't transferred to their house.

If you're into minimally "chemical" cleaners, that can be a selling point.

There may be assistance available at the local government level for a woman entrepreneur.

Good luck. My neighbor cleans houses and works 6 days a week with a wait list for her services. I hope you have the same level of success.

[joyfool]

Wow. Lots of good wisdom here. Thank you all so much.

I do think checking out cleaners that have less chemicals would be a big selling point. Sadly, not from an environmental side, but so many elderly folks (as mentioned above) have various restrictions that could impede breathing and whatnot. So I'll really put some research into that.

And tomorrow, I think I'll be going by our local resource center and see if they have anything geared to women and small businesses. I think that's an incredible place to start.

We also have many, many references books at my resale that I could pore over to find the very best way to clean item X. Lots with tricks and tips to do it more efficiently too.

Finally, I don't know about six days a week. Right now, I'd just really be thrilled to supplement my outgo with a little income. No matter what, my new customer will at least be on the hook for $100 next week. Yippee!!

Thank you all again and if anyone has more, I'd love to hear it.

[Glazer]

Hire a lawyer. Tell your plan and ask his advice on local regulations. Keep him on retainer.

[AuntiePam]

Originally Posted by Solfy

Consider that some clients will want you to use their cleaning supplies or equipment so that other people's dirt isn't transferred to their house.

And vice versa. Fleas/flea larvae in a vacuum cleaner -- is that a risk? Bedbugs? Roach eggs?

[joyfool]

Originally Posted by Glazer

Hire a lawyer. Tell your plan and ask his advice on local regulations. Keep him on retainer.

Already on it. Thanks for the reminder though because I need to stop by and see her soon anyway.

Originally Posted by AuntiePam

And vice versa. Fleas/flea larvae in a vacuum cleaner -- is that a risk? Bedbugs? Roach eggs?

Good point. I'll have to look that up.

[loshan]

Before I even finish reading the thread, let me say good luck, it's a good way to keep afloat and to recommend this Shark Navigator vacuum. It's the cheap and the most awesome vacuum I've ever owned. You can turn the beater bar off for hard floors, lift the canister out for stairs and it's easy-peasy to dump the dirt.
I wish I had had one of these when I was cleaning houses a few years back.

[ZipperJJ]

Go to a dollar store and see what kind of cleaning implements you can pick up for a buck. They have a lot of chemicals too which I think work fine but I agree that making your own might be cheaper and friendlier.

Whatever you find at the dollar store, buy two - brooms, dustpans, sets of gloves, packs of rags, etc. You ARE going cheap so expect them to break and don't set yourself up to be broomless in the middle of a job.

And once you get some money invest it in some more expensive tools that will work better and last longer.

It would be so nice if you could clean and refill pet food dishes. If it's ok with the owners. Ask first in case they are monitoring their pets water intake for some reason. But otherwise, set aside any food the pet it working on, wipe out the bowls (use vinegar if needed, pet spit is like glue), put the food back in and fill the water bowl with nice fresh cold water. Wipe down the bowl holder too if there is one. Once again, vinegar - those holders get messy!

Good luck!

[ZipperJJ]

Oh yeah also go to Wal Mart and get a big package of generic Magic Erasers. Use them for anything that is not s painted surface!

[loshan]

Originally Posted by ZipperJJ

Oh yeah also go to Wal Mart and get a big package of generic Magic Erasers. Use them for anything that is not s painted surface!

Amazon has giant packs of those for damn near nothing.

They wear out a bit faster but last a million times longer for the price.

[joyfool]

I really like how that Shark looks. I'll be quasi-testing them out today at Walmart. And it's great advice about having spares, lots of those magic erasers (dang, I knew I was forgetting something and that price at Amazon beats the socks off of anywhere else, when that typically would only cover two boxes -- great find!) and clean bowls. I know I like it when my pups have fresh everything, so that'd be a really cool thing to add to my repertoire.

Thanks, y'all! You guys rock.

[joyfool]

Oooh, one other thing I'm gonna do (and y'all can tell me if I'm on the right track with this or not) is keep a card file with every clients information on it. You know, preferences, allergies, likes / dislikes, family names, special occasions, contact stuff. Does that sound like a good idea?

[AuntiePam]

Originally Posted by faithfool

Oooh, one other thing I'm gonna do (and y'all can tell me if I'm on the right track with this or not) is keep a card file with every clients information on it. You know, preferences, allergies, likes / dislikes, family names, special occasions, contact stuff. Does that sound like a good idea?

Good idea. My hair stylist does that. Not the family names, etc. but a reminder of what the clients like done, hair color mixing, timing for perms, stuff like that.

Be careful with Magic Erasers. I used one on the stove -- the black plastic part -- and it really dulled the finish.

Don't go cheap on rubber gloves.

[ryevermouthbitters]

Originally Posted by faithfool

... and that price at Amazon beats the socks off of anywhere else...

Oh! That reminds me. Check out Jet.com. They're trying to become the Amazon of normal household stuff, or something. I haven't used them in a while but if you're gonna be buying high volumes of stuff they can add up to some pretty big discounts -- they've got a more-you-buy-more-you-save dealie going on.

Which reminds me again of some advice. Don't spend so much money on stuff that you don't have a positive cash flow for the first six months. Yes, you've got to spend money to make money and if you need a new vacuum, you need a new vacuum, but don't have too much money tied up in equipment and inventory.

[Solfy]

Yes, magic erasers (and knockoffs) are actually extremely fine sanders. They'll remove crayon from a wall, but used aggressively will take the paint off, too.

My new oven actually recommends their use on the inside after a steam cleaning cycle, and they're great for that.
I used them with great success on the 80yr old clawfoot tub, but the finish on that is already scratched so I was willing to take the chance.

[ryevermouthbitters]

Now you've got me thinking every time I clean something. Here's a trick to wow the customers. If you wash anything that's glass -- dishes, lamps, knick knacks, whatever, throw just a teaspoon of Oxiclean in with whatever you're using and the stuff will look like the day it was new. You do have to extra-rinse but it could be the edge -- like smelling clean" that turns "She cleaned, I guess" into "Who does your cleaning?" You don't need their specialty products, just a box of OxiClean Versatile. "Free" if you can get it has no added dyes or aromas.

[joyfool]

I just wanted to update this to tell everyone thank you so much for all your help and encouragement. You've all been extremely instrumental in my doing well, so I appreciate you guys so much. ❤️

As of right now, I have seven permanent clients and at least three waiting in the wings. I have two businesses, and one will bring me in almost $800 a month when there's five weeks. I'm busier than a one armed paper hanger. Yay!

And I'm learning a lot. I've pretty much ditched anything but a straight per hourly fee. I usually underprice, which leads to lots of tips and other goodies. All of them know I volunteer at a resale, so they're giving me first crack at anything they're donating. Lots of nice stuff and food so far. Plus, the tips have been fabulous and infinitely make up any wage difference.

Also, everyone loves the small touches, giving treats to their pets and spending a little extra time talking to them. They also like the loyalty cards, although most have sworn they won't use them. Then starting for Mother's Day, I'm offering gift certificates on my Facebook page. One friend is already poised to purchase for his wife from the kids.

A couple of things of note about cleaning thus far.......
these people do like their familiar smells. They want Windex and Pine Sol and Pledge. Fortunately, I've gotten a few other things snuck in on them that really help do my job. For fighting cigarette smoke, I use a super cheapie brand called LA Totally Awesome. They sell it at every dollar type store and you can get a gallon of it for $3. It cuts nicotine in one swipe like nobody's business. And then there's Barkeeper's Friend for the glass top. I go off label and use it to cut soap scum and I've now concluded its the best invention since sliced bread. It's amazing and I highly recommend it to everyone. On Amazon, it's pretty inexpensive too.

Beyond all that, y'all's advice was invaluable. I did start out trying to do too much extraneous stuff, and I've only really noticed one draw back to this point; I'm a little on the slow side. I want everything to be so nice and spotless, I take longer than I'd like. However, everyone has been hiring me for deep cleans, so they really don't mind. I hope I speed up with time. But every bit of advice you all gave here has proved priceless. Your suggestions on what to buy, how to work, everything actually, have been spot on (or off ). So, thanks again. Youse are the bomb diggity!!

[SmartAleq]

So glad to hear you're doing well, hooray for success stories! You're right about Barkeeper's Friend, around here Bi-Mart carries it and it's super good at cutting through mess and grunge, I use it for cleaning the sink and shower floor.

[AuntiePam]

I've been wondering how things were going -- glad to hear the venture is a success.

[joyfool]

Thank you both! It's been exhilarating and fun. Hope I'll be able to keep up the good work and happy to know it's actually something I enjoy.

[ryevermouthbitters]

Outstanding!

[Solfy]

Originally Posted by AuntiePam

I've been wondering how things were going -- glad to hear the venture is a success.

This, word for word.

[tunaman]

How are you collecting money? I could see something like this running on paper checks, but most every repairman\handyman\artisan\small business owner I've dealt with in the past 3-4 years uses Square, or something like it.

[joyfool]

Originally Posted by tunaman

How are you collecting money? I could see something like this running on paper checks, but most every repairman\handyman\artisan\small business owner I've dealt with in the past 3-4 years uses Square, or something like it.

Most everyone has paid in cash, except for a few who've paid with checks. I've got it on my list of things to do to get a card reader (although I doubt many will use it, it'll still be another selling point -- I hope!), so thanks for the reminder.

[MissJeanLouise]

Wow, so thrilled to hear that this has worked out for you.

[joyfool]

Thank you, ma'am. Life is at least holding steady these days.

[joyfool]

Sorry to resurrect this, but I have a tangential business question that I hope y'all don't mind.

As a sideline to cleaning, I'm doing my amateur photography. And I was so excited to have TWO paying customers. Yippee! Well, one was a friend I volunteer with and another was someone I just barely know. When the first fell on really difficult times, I said I'd still do her son's grad pics for free to help her out. So, that one I'm technically okay with and blame myself for being too much of a softy if I have a problem with it.

The latter though, blew me off after delivery by saying she didn't get paid until the following Friday. I relented happily (because I never thought she'd try to scam me) and checked back in then. Of course at that point, she too had unexpected drama. I was like , but let it slide because I want to believe the best of folks. Therefore, when she texted to see me not too long after that, I just knew money would be in hand and I was sooooo inwardly grateful. No awkwardness here after all, right?

Guess you can see where this is headed.

Went to lunch together and nary a word about payment. I was so flabbergasted at that, amidst her diatribe against deadbeats at her job, that she'd still try to stiff me, that I said nada about it. But when I got home, I decided to grow a pair and graciously called her on it. I'm now supposed to get my cash in two days. We'll see.

My query to you guys is this then........

1.) What do I do if she keeps stalling some more? She's already got all the photos (duh me) and we're Facebook "friends" that might get me more work, so there's that.

2.) How to prevent this going forward? Half payment up front? What? I don't want to be a mamby pamby pushover and because I'm still just barely breaking even, I've gotta take care of my own stuff, so any help at all on how to overcome that would be great.

Thanks in advance.

[Random Precision]

First - ouch. That really sucks. It sounds like you may get paid - eventually.

For the future, if you decide to continue with it, all I can think of is to get a "final approval" on them from the customer before you exchange them for the payment. In the old days, photographers used proof sheets for this where you saw all the pictures in their un-enlarged you state so you could pick the ones you were willing to pay for. There has to be a digital equivalent of this, like putting a big watermark across the photo or something so the customer can see them, but not copy or download them until they pony up the cash.

[LemmeOut]

I was also thinking about a huge watermark that doesn't get removed until payment is received in full. As for your friend, maybe provide her an invoice "for her records," and the helpful offer of a receipt to go with it when she pays.

I also wanted to chime in and say how happy and excited I am for you. I especially liked your idea of a quick-and-dirty clean for people who don't have a lot of time or money.

[Jaglavak]

The digital equivalent is to show them low resolution photos for approval, and don't come across with the high res pix until you get paid.

[joyfool]

Ah, guys, that's a great idea! Thank you. And the good thing is, I've been doing watermarks for my Instagram stuff for a while, I'd just forgotten about it for this. Yay!

I also appreciate the kind words, LemmeOut. Cleaning is certainly doing right by me. A large part of that is due to y'all's help, too. ❤️

[Rat Diva]

Originally Posted by faithfool

My query to you guys is this then........

1.) What do I do if she keeps stalling some more? She's already got all the photos (duh me) and we're Facebook "friends" that might get me more work, so there's that.

Honestly, you might have to eat the loss on this one. I don't think she'll pay up (there'll always be some new drama, turmoil, car has the flu, Mars is in Pisces and her horoscope says not to handle money, blah blah blah) or will pay up with such bad grace that you'll never get another good lead out of her. You might be able to go after her in small claims court, but depending on the amount of money in question that might be more trouble than it's worth.

2.) How to prevent this going forward? Half payment up front? What? I don't want to be a mamby pamby pushover and because I'm still just barely breaking even, I've gotta take care of my own stuff, so any help at all on how to overcome that would be great.

Do you do written contracts? If not, do written contracts Spell out exactly what the terms are. I'd suggest a non-refundable deposit (25-50%) so you're guaranteed at least some money for your time and equipment. The suggestions about watermarks and low-res pictures are good ones, additionally state that the proofs will no longer be available after a set time (15-30 days) and the "good" pictures will only be available after the balance due is received... AND CLEARS THE BANK (sorry to shout but check bouncers piss me off ).

[joyfool]

Ah, Rat Diva, that's all wonderful advice. The money is too small to even go after much more, let alone in small claims court. But I bet you're right about her in general.

As to the rest, I do think a short contract would be great and the deposit non-refundable and in half up front. And I don't do checks for that, so maybe that'll at least be one headache I can avoid.

Thank you all!

[Rat Diva]

Yeah, it's a shame because most people really are honest and decent, but thanks to the Moochy Minority you can't do business with a smile and handshake anymore or you'll get screwed over eventually

The contract doesn't have to be anything fancy, even a word document where you can just fill in the info, or you can get preprinted generic ones at office supply places.

[AuntiePam]

Originally Posted by faithfool

As to the rest, I do think a short contract would be great and the deposit non-refundable and in half up front. And I don't do checks for that, so maybe that'll at least be one headache I can avoid.

Yes, this. It lets your customers know that the photography is more than a hobby for you -- it's a real business.

Plus, if someone signs the contract and still doesn't pay, you can file in small claims court, get noticed by Judge Judy producers, get an all expenses paid trip to LA and we can watch you on TV!

She has almost as many photographer cases as dog bite cases.

[Rat Diva]

I like those. They're a break from the "s/he moved out and owes me for rent, utilites, mental anguish, and toilet paper!!!!!" cases that make up 80% of her docket.

[joyfool]

Yeah, and I do think they feel they don't have to pay me because I'm a pushover. I'll show them.

[joyfool]

Just an update....... she finally paid. Yesterday. Two weeks worth of work at home, three hours in the cold to take the pictures, dealing with bratty kids who didn't want to be there, probably a dozen trips to collect and more excuses than Andy Dick on his way back to rehab and?

I got $35. Lesson learned in spades = priceless.

[DrWas]

List yourself on http://TaskRabbit.com and http://handy.com

Since no one has mentioned it here I am guessing these aren't that big outside of the major metro areas, but I am sure a few people looking for someone in your area will be using them. You might be the only game in town on those sites and thus get all the business. They don't obligate you to take jobs from them, and you can still advertise your services in other ways.

Get a good website and try to make SEO a priority. You might be able to be the number 1 link on Google in your town if you do it right. I doubt many housecleaners have good pageranks. It shouldn't be terribly difficult to to own "Youtown housecleaning" and "Yourtown housekeeping".

Also, look into "Concierge Services", it sounds fancy, but basically it's just another way of saying, "I will do the odd jobs you don't have time to do.", sometimes this means receiving packages for people, or being there to open the door for the house painters, or something of that sort.

[joyfool]

Thanks, DrWas. That all sounds like really reasonable advice. The cleaning portion still seems to be taking off well, so adding this direction should help. But my pictures...... I'm just terribly surprised that people who sought me out (I've never done a lick of advertising) would be so cavalier with the services they requested. Shouldn't have caught me off guard, but indeed it did. The only positive take away I have from this experience is that I'll be damned if I repeat it.

Thanks all.

[Rat Diva]

I'm glad you got what you were owed. There have probably been a lot of people who have written off Ms Cheapo as a loss when she didn't pay up, so good for you for not letting her get away with it this time

[joyfool]

Thanks. All the sob stories in the world weren't going to prevent me from "accidentally" always being right near her job. I think it's harder to constantly duck someone when you work at a place famed for just that. Finance company bosses look askance at employees who also won't meet their obligations. Amazing.

[Jaglavak]

Originally Posted by faithfool

I'm just terribly surprised that people who sought me out (I've never done a lick of advertising) would be so cavalier with the services they requested.

There is a certain percentage of the population who are looking to take advantage any way they can get away with. They look for people who seem weak or timid, or sometimes just try their shit on anybody and back down if needed. And since you are in a business where you meet a good slice of the population, you will run across these assholes from time to time.

You have already learned one part of the cure. Get your money even if it costs you money. That is the only way to broadcast the right message. They will squeal and grunt far and wide, and that's exactly what you want. The other part is to not look like a good target in the first place. That will come with time as you learn the ropes and gain confidence. The most important thing is not to let a few jerks ruin your good attitude.