How to handle this situation

wifehatescar · 04-16-04, 11:07

So I pull into the gym parking lot yesterday (in the back of the lot of course) and a couple spots down there is a Lincoln LS (also purposely parked in the back of the lot) that looks cared-for (somewhat shiney and tire dressing at least)

But, it had some swirls and some "PC-removeable" scratches. Seems to me someone who has enough smarts to try to take care of their car would be aware of scratches on their car and be interested in removing them.
In theory, if I left a business card with the following hand-written note>
"I couldn't happen to notice you take very good care of your car, I'd like to have the opportunity to help you take your car's finish to the next level by removing any fine scratches you may have on your paint. Please call me if you are interested."

Is this insulting the owner by pointing out the flaws or is it smart by marketing my services DIRECTLY to his car/situation? Is there a better way to word the above note in this situation? TIA

bretfraz · 04-16-04, 11:10

I dunno...... your note sounds just fine to me but if someone's ego gets in the way, it could be taken wrong. You know how egotistical some people are about their car detailing talents....

It's a fine line between being respectful and making sure your intentions are clear. All you can do is offer your services and let them take the next step. Sounds like you did that well. Now the ball is in their court.

e1m · 04-16-04, 11:23

*One person's opinion* My 1st reaction is generally to throw away fliers left on the car because they're generally kind of like spam. But I would likely read a hand written note, and if it started with a compliment like that it would probably grab my attention & I might just follow up & call. You might also point out which car is yours to provide a "demo" (but also maybe fair is fair?). Just one person's opinion and a newbie at that - to detailing & this forum. . . great site by the way.

RobertM · 04-16-04, 12:06

I think it sounds like a pretty good idea. A few people might take offense to it, but I don't think it would be likely. Make sure you start your note off with a completment first just as you mentioned above. By simply doing so, it could make the world of a difference.

Robert

joburnet · 04-16-04, 01:42

I would ask yourself if you really even care if the guy gets upset. As long as your polite about it then I wouldn't worry about it, if he gets upset then you just don't get the job, no biggie.

Simplistic · 04-16-04, 02:52

Quote:

Originally posted by joburnet
I would ask yourself if you really even care if the guy gets upset. As long as your polite about it then I wouldn't worry about it, if he gets upset then you just don't get the job, no biggie.

I second that, you can only really try. Fact is, you DID word it quite professionally and the ball is in his court. i say you marketed well

wifehatescar · 04-16-04, 05:28

Thanks for the advice.
I actually didn't DO it, I just thought about how I *would* have left a note, theoretically.....

eggroll · 04-16-04, 06:00

^I was wondering about that.

Sounded like you had already done it, but you were asking for advice? I thought you were crouched in your car typing away on your laptop trying to get opinions from autopia.

lol

LouisanaJeeper · 04-16-04, 06:31

"I couldn't happen to notice you take very good care of your car, I'd like to have the opportunity to help you take your car's finish to the next level. Please call me if you are interested."

Scottwax · 04-16-04, 08:47

I would have just left my business card with a note on the back letting the person know I specialize in high end vehicles. That way, you give them an ego boost by catagorizing the car as high end, plus you put it in their mind that other high end vehicle owners pay for detailing.

Win win, IMO.

wifehatescar · 04-17-04, 07:26

Quote:

Originally posted by eggroll
I thought you were crouched in your car typing away on your laptop trying to get opinions from autopia. lol

If I was to THAT level of insanity, I would admit myself to a mental instiution

2k1sohc · 04-20-04, 07:16

He might already paying someone/ place to detail his car. If that is the case, he may be willing to move up to the next level of professional detailing.