A: Hi Mr. Repave, I’ve heard you do good work and I trust my sources…How much is it to repave my driveway?
B: $1000
A: Really? Will you do it for $600?
B: I could do 60% of it for $600
A: No, I want you to do 100%, great work for $600
B: This isn’t going to work.
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A: Hi Mr. Repave, I’ve heard you do good work and I trust my sources…How much is it to repave my driveway?
B: $1000
A: I see. That’s more than I have right now. When I have the money together, I’ll give you a call back and have you come do the work.
B: Looking forward to it.
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A: Hi Mr. Repave, I’ve heard you do good work and I trust my sources…How much is it to repave my driveway?
B: $1000
A: Great, when can we get started.
—
There’s something about not negotiating a price.
It says to the provider “You have an accurate view of how valuable you and your services are. You are smart and intelligent and I’m not going to call you a liar or a dummy by offering you something lower”.
The person in conversation #1 is trying to convince Mr. Repave that he has an inaccurate view of his worth. That’s insulting. It’s never going to lead to a good place.
It’s ok if you don’t have the money, like in conversation #2, but the person in conversation #2 didn’t disrespect Mr. Repave by telling him he’s foolish for charging $1000. This person essentially said “It’s worth every bit of $1000. That’s the right price and it’s a good value that I happen to not be able to afford right now”. There is mutual respect there.
The person in conversation #3 is going to have a great experience with Mr. Repave. There’s mutual trust and respect happening and a mutually beneficial agreement of services and money.
I’m not saying never barter. I actually love a good back and forth.
You’ll have to use your own instincts and intellect to gauge when it’s ok to negotiate and when not to.
Just remember paying someone what they ask for, there’s power in that, for what it says about them and what it says about you.
I’m always interested in your perspective, whether affirming or dissenting. Continue the conversation anytime: gabethebassplayer@gmail.com