Monday, November 24, 2014

How to Avoid a One Night Stand

A man and a woman who met online are having their first phone conversation.  Here's how it goes: 
Lady: "Hi, I'm getting married this summer.  There are five other potential suitors coming out this week and I need to set time for you to come out so you can tell me why I should marry you."
Gentleman: "Wow, okay.  I thought maybe we could just grab dinner...."
Lady: "Oh no. No time for that.  I have to get this done.  I just need you to come out because I'll be choosing a spouse by next week.  This wedding has to happen this summer!"
Gentleman: "Being this is such a big decision, don't you think you should maybe learn a little about me before I come out?"
Lady: "Look, I really just want to set as many of these appointments as possible.  I have Wed and Thursday open right now.  Which is best for you?"  
Does this seem absolutely insane to you?  Maybe because it is!  But this is exactly how many sign shoppers approach their LED Sign project.  

So What's The Problem?

The problem is that whether you want it or not, you will have a significant relationship with your sign dealer, and it's not all that different from a marriage.  You will live with this sign till death or relocation do you part, right?  
The Sign Buyer who is only interested in getting quotes, without investing the time to become educated, is setting themselves up for a one night stand.

Tons Of Companies Are Up For A One-Night Stand

Don't get me wrong.  There's no shortage of companies who are happy scribble down a number, slap the sign in, then disappear into the abyss....just like in the dating world.  But is that what you really want?  Many people don't realize that's exactly what they're attracting when they make these two fundamental mistakes.

The Two Biggest Mistakes of LED Sign Shoppers

Mistake #1: They Don't Take Time To Educate Themselves
Information is power.  This is just as true with LED Signs as with anything else.  Time and time again we've seen that the educated consumer is the happiest client on earth for the following reasons: 
1.  They are typically delighted with their sign and options
2.  They plan more thoroughly
3.  They invest every dollar of their project wisely
Mistake #2:  They Make Decisions Based Solely On Price
Price is a huge factor, but basing your decision based on price alone is like walking down the isle with the most "attractive" person regardless of their character.  So if price isn't everything, what else is there?  
Ironically, its seems that the same qualities that make for a great spouse also make for a great sign dealer. 

4 Qualities Of Great Sign Dealers...and Spouses

1.  They Put You First
2.  They Are Only Interested in A Long Term Relationship
3.  They Work to Constantly Improve Themselves
4.  They Keep No Secrets 
This begs the question, how can you tell the good from the bad?...or more likely the differences between good, better, and best?
There are several ways.  First, check references.  Second, check the BBB and other public forums.  Third, follow your gut...sometimes you get that feeling and personally, I've always done better to follow it. 
So, you might be wondering, 'What is the right way to go about getting a quote?'.  Great question, here's what we suggest:

5 Stages of Sign Courtship

Step One: Determine what sign is right for you
Step Two: Study the options and accessories
Step Three: Vet the sign dealer
Step Four: Request a quote
Step Five:  Sure up the Numbers
Well, hopefully you've found this helpful.  If you are considering installing a LED Sign this year, we wish you the best in finding the sign dealer equivalent of Mr. or Mrs. Right!
Please feel free to leave questions or comments below.