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Should you leave them dangling?

By
Home Stager with D F Campbell Ventures Group Inc.

Lately, I have been approached by a number of firms to provide a quote or to elaborate on how I might see a business relationship unfold. I have provided ideas, showed flexibility and illustrated a willingness to negotiate and find mutual synergies to advance both our businesses.

After I provided the proposal for their consideration, I sat back and waited for a response. Then none comes. In one instance, it seemed like there were many synergies to promote both business, and the other party was very responsive... at first. Then, nothing. Even after a friendly "let me know where you are in your process" type email, still nothing.

Is silence so golden?

When I worked in a contracts group at a gas transmission company, it was policy (and good form) to contact each company who provided a bid or proposal and just tell them yes, they got the contract or no, better luck next time

Is it common in business to leave people dangling? To request further information or the complex proposal, then not respond? Has this happened to anyone?

Ron Tarvin
Residential, Investment properties, rehab projects, property management, luxury homes, new construction! - Katy, TX
Broker, Katy, Houston, Cypress 77450,77494,77095

Sadly, Gabriele, you will find that many agents do not understand professional courtesy (especially to others in "support" areas).

I've proposed things to others in "support" areas as well and have gotten an enthusiastic response, until they find out that ALL business arrangements come at some price.  Then it's not so exciting for them.

Apr 15, 2008 01:54 AM
Kim Sellers
Lake Arrowhead, CA Coldwell Banker - Lake Arrowhead, CA
Lake Arrowhead Realtor - BRE#01412099 - Lake Arrow
I think first, it is rude.  Even if they are not going to go forward, common courtesy is to call and inform you that they are not going forward.  Best of luck.
Apr 15, 2008 02:04 AM
Cindy Bryant
Redesign Etc. Home Staging - Houston, TX
"Houston Home Staging Pros"
I have had several people call and want to "talk" about my business, or this and that, I don't ever give the farm away, but I never hear from them again.  A lot of tire kickers.
Apr 17, 2008 07:56 PM
Sandra Hughes
Redesigned Spaces - Northern Virginia - Fairfax, VA
Redesigned Spaces - Fairfax County, Virginia
I am finding as well I do not get always get calls back after speaking with someone whether a Realtor, home seller or other business.  I think most want to avoid calling back and just being honest at where they are.
Apr 17, 2008 08:55 PM
Tori Lynn Wallitsch
Prudential Ambassador / Ross Designs, LLC - Omaha, NE
Gabriele - unfortunately you are not alone in this!  I found that once I started charging for all of my consultations and quotes I learned who was a serious potential client and who wasn't.  It is professional to at least inform all bidders whether or not they were selected and what the selection criteria were based on if there were multiple bidders.  How are your sales skills in general?  Do you always end a meeting with a commitment from the potential client as to what their next step is and when you should expect to hear from them again?  Do you have a clear understanding of what their approval process is and what they are looking for? Did you completely and accurately answer all of their questions? Sometimes nailing down these small details helps ensure that you at least hear a "no" from them directly down the road as opposed to leaving you dangling.
Apr 22, 2008 11:42 AM
Kimo Stowell
HI Pro Realty LLC RB-21531 - Honolulu, HI
REALTOR Associate® RS-76763 - Honolulu Hawai'i

Aloha Gabriele,

I think it's very odd that they did not respond in some manner, especially since they solicited your proposal. Sorry to hear of it. Maybe you should give them a jingle and find out.

Peace,

 

May 07, 2008 06:08 PM