Feedback required THE WEEKEND PLUMBER

plumb1_2

derrick wrote:

What about, "plumber at your convenience"

Thanks but no thanks.
Keep all your views and opinions coming.

BobProperty

derrick wrote:

Can't see why you have to charge extra, as you are not doing extra hours, more like less. this is not overtime, just you using your time to better effect for yourself, no probs with that, but why penalise your potential customers? I think you would get more work using normal rates and your customers would not feel ripped off....

I always enjoy posts like this, as I somehow get the feeling that the people who post them have never worked for themselves.
Could you define "overtime", please?
Could you also post what you think is a reasonable rate, an expensive rate (without it being a rip-off), and a "rip-off" rate?

And plumb1, I'm still thinking.

dora37

I think you would definitely get the business, as it would be convenient for people, however, whether people would pay a premium is another matter.

In this world of 24/7 business, do you not think that most people already expect that the self employed work these hours anyhow?

Convenient hours (for the customer) and reliable work at a reasonable rate, would be the way to get a regular customer base - thus not a lot of advertising required.

PS Shower is not leaking and is HOT! - Thanks PLUMB1

BobProperty

dora37 wrote:

I think you would definitely get the business, as it would be convenient for people, however, whether people would pay a premium is another matter.

In this world of 24/7 business, do you not think that most people already expect that the self employed work these hours anyhow?

Convenient hours (for the customer) and reliable work at a reasonable rate, would be the way to get a regular customer base - thus not a lot of advertising required.....

I agree some services are available 24/7 but not all (I don't think my solicitor is for some reason ). And in some cases there is no longer a premium on 7 days working. Plumb1's problem is to maintain his income (or take an acceptably small drop) while only working 3 days instead of 5. I think most customers would accept a premium for the weekend working, but, as I have already indicated, an increase in Plumb1's rate my still price him at less than some rival businesses.

dora37

BobProperty wrote:

I agree some services are available 24/7 but not all (I don't think my solicitor is for some reason ). And in some cases there is no longer a premium on 7 days working. Plumb1's problem is to maintain his income (or take an acceptably small drop) while only working 3 days instead of 5. I think most customers would accept a premium for the weekend working, but, as I have already indicated, an increase in Plumb1's rate my still price him at less than some rival businesses.

Sorry, I didn't mean 24/7 literally, more you could probably call or make an appointment with several self employed people/trades for practically any day of the week.....I didn't mean all hours.

I think it is a good idea and agree with you regarding an increase in rate may still underprice himself compared to rivals.....I took the premium to mean 'more than the average rate' and I do not think some people would pay more than average.

However if it was a good rate and a reliable service.....it would be a great service to offer.

24_hour_sparks

what can i say but look at my name, ive built a v good reputation on my back and yes i get fed up going out all hours inc weekends but i dont ned to advertise etc anymore.
i charge about 30 percent less on a callout than any one else, ( my research tells me theres only 2 or 3 companys in my area that do callout) and i still do well from it otherwise i wouldnt would I

thanks andy

plumb1_2

dora37 wrote:

PS Shower is not leaking and is HOT! - Thanks PLUMB1

Your welcome, and thanks for the brew;) and hope i didn't overcharge you for the WEEKEND work

dora37

plumb1 wrote:

Your welcome, and thanks for the brew;) and hope i didn't overcharge you for the WEEKEND work

Your very welcome and it was worth every penny....next time you may even get a biscuit!

susieb1967

Can't see why you have to charge extra, as you are not doing extra hours, more like less. this is not overtime, just you using your time to better effect for yourself, no probs with that, but why penalise your potential customers? I think you would get more work using normal rates and your customers would not feel ripped off....


This gave me a wry smile....... would most people who work at the weekend/ shift work not expect a little extra in their pay packet?
The trouble with being self employed is that people forget that you dont get sick pay, holiday pay, pension or any other of the benefits associated with being employed. You also have all your outgoings to consider, vehicle running, insurances, advertising, clothing, etc. Employed people forget that the self employed have to put all these costs into their prices.
My hubby is self employed and likes his days off at the weekend with the family. He is always getting calls for him to come out at the weekend, I think you may be on a winner here plumb1 !! Good Luck

hardpressed

Would it be worth you doing a few hours in the evenings for small jobs, that could be done in one evening.