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Debate: should you let clients pick their own paint colors or push back?
I had a client in Phoenix last month who INSISTED on using a flat finish in a high-traffic hallway. I told him it would show every scuff and fingerprint, but he said matte was 'the only look he wanted.' Three weeks later he called me complaining about marks everywhere. So who's in the wrong here - the builder who warns them or the client who ignores advice? Has anyone else dealt with this kind of stubborn customer and how do you handle it?
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jennyp1922d ago
Is it really that big of a deal though? I mean sure the client was wrong in the end but you warned him right? You told him flat would be a nightmare and he still wanted it. So what's the real loss here except maybe a little bit of your time when he eventually called you back? People are gonna make bad choices sometimes and if they paid you for the work you got your money. It's on them to learn the hard way unless they're paying you extra for full design consulting.
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faithwalker22d ago
omg @jennyp19 you're hitting on something i see everywhere. it's like people think they can shortcut reality and then get surprised when it bites them. i watch my cousin do this with his car all the time. he'll ignore the check engine light for months, spend less on gas, then act shocked when his transmission gives out. it's not just about the money either, it's the pattern of ignoring good advice because it's easier to hear what you want. your time and reputation take the hit every time too.
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jordang3217d ago
That's a perfect way to put it, @faithwalker. "Shortcut reality" is exactly right. I've seen this happen so many times in my own circle, especially with electronics. My neighbor bought a used tablet that was obviously beat up and glitchy because it was half the price of a decent one. He spent twice what he saved on repairs and replacement batteries within two years, and then grumbled about how nothing is made to last anymore. It's like people think the low price tag is the only thing that matters and the hidden costs don't exist until they're staring them in the face. And you're right, @jennyp19, sometimes people do learn the hard way, but that doesn't mean we can't point out the obvious while they're making the mistake.
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