I'm fairly new to mowing full time, and one of my competitors is selling his mowing rigs on ebay. We mow in the same areas so I know a lot of his houses and I want to bid his accounts Do you guys think its ethical to move in on this guys customers before he sells his company? Owen
Do unto other as you'd have done to yourself. As far as what they do unto to you? Well that's another subject ... If you're going to make a move on insider-information, even though it's not illegal, it's definitely not honorable. However, if it is public knowledge that he's getting out of the business then it may not be as sleazy. But those accounts may be the most valuable thing he is selling, so if you do something to reduce that value, it wouldn't be too cool. I'm all for hustling up work, but if you start stepping on other people's turf, you're setting yourself up for a fall. Aside from a LCO dropping the ball, just how loyal do you think these newly-hawked customers would be to you? I try to avoid price-shopper customers.
applause, applause, Bluesteel, just have to say, that's the best post I've ever read of yours, the whole thing. Just had to say that, good going. OwenS, ever thought about approaching this other LCO to find out what his whole story is? Is he selling equipment only, or accounts too? Selling equipment to upgrade?? I'd advise you find out before you ASSume too much.
well brother,i hate to say it but thats how the free enterprise system works.... its a judgement call,and i wouldnt go after a friends money.... but u better believe somebody will... just do whatever makes u sleep good at nite. jmo
how would u like someone trying to take away youre meal ticket. not everyone is honarabel but the ones that are get more respect and word spreads fast abought slime balls so what do u want to be.
Go talk to him. He might have someone else that he is selling or trying to sell the accounts to. If you get a hold of him right away perhaps you can get in on the bidding. Just a thought. I wouldn't just go and try to take them out right though. Thats not how you want your reputation to go.
I believe that if you are doing a great job at a fair price, you shouldn't worry about competition on your existing jobs. If your client decides to drop you it is their loss for you are quality. On that same note, if I approach a prospective customer that already has service I don't expect to get anywhere with them if they are happy with their current cutter. All lawns are fair game other than friends' clients.
