This is a true story. I wish it wasn’t. But it’s a cautionary lesson for me as a purchaser and as an entrepreneur that can help you, too.
Hiring Help
After revising my course I wanted to have it looking good. So I searched for a VA who could do ebook layouts. I interviewed Carla and she passed with flying colors. We got along great, and she was able to tolerate my delays with grace. We were within days of having the final copy of the layout and design complete. Then it happened. Carla disappeared. For real.
She sent me an email asking for a small delay, which was fine since I’d had a few, citing a family emergency. Then, nothing. Nada. I didn’t hear from her on that day or the next. I called. No answer. More than two weeks later, I got nothing. No files. No explanation. No refund from Carla.
Trust but Verify
This whole incident freaks me out to be honest. This is only the second time in years of online biz that I’ve been stiffed. I’m still ok with working with folks online. And, you should be, too. You absolutely cant do everything alone.
I have no idea what happened on Carla’s end, which is maddening, of course. I do know what I did, though. Things went sideways because I forgot to ask one thing:
What happens if you can’t perform?
Hey, I’m human. I get caught up in the ‘pheew, problem solved’ feeling of relief, too. That’s when I should have asked about her backup plan. I knew she was a solopro, which means she has a life that might interrupt her business. I know that from personal experience. My hubs sneezed one night, blew two discs in his back and started us on a two year road to recovery. He fared well. His business, and mine to a lesser degree, took a hit. We both learned the value of back up. To have a plan for the unexpected.
But, it didn’t really occur to me to make sure other solopros had one. And, to see how it would impact me. You bet you bottom dollar I won’t get stuck in that trap again. A funny, yet direct question like, ‘So, what happens if you get hit by a falling piano?’ will be firmly inserted in my interview checklist. I suggest you add something like it to yours, if you work with other solopros.
If I’m out the money I paid, I’ll consider it an inexpensive lesson to remember to practice what I preach: ask more questions!
What does this mean to you?
As a consumer, be prepared for adversity or obstacles by asking the tough questions. What happens if…. It might feel like you’re being a ‘debbie downer’ but isn’t it better to be confident the person/business can perform?
Use payment that has its own dispute resolution process. I’ll be going to Paypal for a refund since the vendor isn’t responding.
And, finally, be understanding but not a pushover. It amazes me how many people immediately assume the worse when there’s a glitch. Poop happens people! If you want understanding, you gotta give to get. On the other hand, it’s ok to be clear about what you want to see happen to fix whatever is wrong. I as
Next Monday, let’s talk about what it means to you as a business person and an update to the story.
PS HEY, THIS IS THE FIRST DAY!! for Social Media Black Belt, the very informative video series Christine Dyer developed. I know how to better attract and manage Facebook leads thanks to the series. If you want to attract more leads and referrals on Facebook and Twitter- I can’t recommend this series highly enough. Grab your copy now
HAPPY, HAPPY TURKEY DAY!
