First, this is a story about trust. Trusting that people will pay for custom metal work that they asked for. Then again, this may be a story about being wiser in running our business.
Custom Metal Work Request
A few weeks ago, we received a website contact from someone looking for wall art in a skull design. She sent a picture of something along the lines of what she was looking for. We asked if she was looking for a Day of the Dead type of design. And she said that was exactly what she was looking for.
So Mike created a design, and we sent a png file for her review along with an estimate. And, we never heard back from her. We even sent a follow up email. No response.
We have had a handful of potential customers not follow through and request that metal art be created for them. This woman’s email had “inked” as part of the address. Maybe she was looking for a tattoo design? Who knows. It’s not that we won’t use the design for our business, but would we have created it if she hadn’t asked – probably not.
Requesting a Design Deposit
Whatever the reason for potential clients not following through to purchase, we have struggled with the question of whether we should require a deposit before we provide a design. If we took that approach, we would request a deposit through check or charge. This would be returned if they were not satisfied with the design. It would be applied to the cost of the finished piece. We would look at a nominal charge – possibly $20. Something that demonstrates a person’s interest in proceeding to purchase.
So, we’re interested in what you think. Please comment on our Facebook page and let us know how you feel about our requesting a deposit. Thanks!
PS – We now charge a $50 design deposit for original custom metal work. The majority of people don’t even question paying it.