how to handle an unhappy client

malevitt | Posted in Ask the Experts Archive on July 2, 2008 05:01am

I just started doing woodworking for a living in January and have stayed relatively busy since then. Mostly bookcases, but I have just completed a small Queen Anne desk. And happily have a string of very satisfied clients. What have any of you done when the work you deliver is not to the liking of your client? Whether they think the quality of the work isn’t worth the money; or the piece isn’t really what they thought it was going to be or look like. Or…..
Please advise

Replies

user-1119429039 | Jul 02, 2008 08:30pm | #1
Dear Malevitt,

I'd suggest posting your question in Knots, the user forum here. You're sure to get numerous responses from professionals; in the end, the sum of the advice may be more helpful to you than one man's opinion.

Good luck,

David Heim
Managing Editor
FineWoodworking.com
mvflaim | Jul 23, 2008 12:54am | #2
You gotta bite the bullet and give them their money back or remake the piece. It's the risk you inherit when working for yourself. The last thing you need is a report on you from the Better Business Bureau about lousy customer service.

The silver lining is that if you're professional and satisify their needs, you may have a customer for life.

Edited 7/22/2008 5:55 pm ET by mvflaim