The Professional Impression

[Clyde Hollinger]

David,

I'm not sure what you are referring to as possibly unprofessional.  Do you mean
the vehicle signs?  I agree that appearing professional is a plus, but signs on
the vehicle are a negative only if they are tacky.  In our area it is not
unusual for me to service a piano when no one is home; the client just leaves
the door unlocked for me.  I always feel better if the neighbors know who is
going in that house, which they probably wouldn't if I were driving an unmarked
car.

(About the business license, in our area none is needed other than the PA sales
tax license.)

I use very nicely done magnetic signs.  Since I do not want to buy a separate
vehicle just for piano work, my business vehicle is also the family car.  I
have had people express mild surprise when they learned the signs are magnetic.

Now to broaden the subject a little, I've looked around the parking lot at some
conventions.  On occasion a piano service vehicle shows rust or damage or the
need for repair or a new paint job.  I recognize that not all of us can afford
to, or care to, drive snazzy late-model vehicles, but it is to anyone's credit
to keep the vehicle clean and looking nice, regardless of its age.  That's my
take.

Regards,
Clyde Hollinger, RPT

David ilvedson wrote:

> No offense intended Richard, but I made a concious decision
> to try to appear professional.  I decided I would prefer that my
> customers not lump me in with the Roto-Rooter man or
> furnace repairman.  I think my profession is different from
> them.  Whether it is or not is up to debate.  Now whether my
> Toyota Corolla puts forth much of an impression is also
> debateable.  Here in the Bay Area companies doing business
> in different cities are suppose to have a business license from
> each city.  I have heard of repair folk with advertising on their
> vehicles getting checked for a business license.  That is really
> absurd but true!
>
> David I.
>
> > I rarely see a piano tuner with his name on his car. Why not?  I drive a
> > bright red van.  In large gold letters on the back/side windows I have
> > my business name and a large gold grand piano.   Has it resulted in
> > business? You bet.  People have followed me to get the phone number. It
> > has paid for the $150 lettering at least five times so far.
> >
> > Martin, I would be glad to go over additional things that I'm doing to
> > promote Oliver Piano Services if you would like to call some afternoon.
> > 217-935-4284  Best of luck, it's a fine field to be in. With some of the
> > nicest and most helpful people I've meet anywhere.
> > Richard
> >
> > Martin Dubow wrote:
> > >
> > > Dear All,
> > >
> > > I'm curious about stories regarding how you went from whatever you were
> > > doing
> > > before, to actually making a living as a tuner. I sold a furniture
> > > factory and am
> > > living on reserves while I feverishly learn the trade and build up a
> > > clientele. I'm
> > > just praying my reserves last long enough to become viable doing this.
> > >
> > > Thanks.
> > >
> > > Martin
> >
>
> David Ilvedson, RPT
> Pacifica, CA
> ilvey@jps.net