How do you come across the best services? I move A LOT! I’m also super picky. I have a specific system for how I find “my people.” I’ve adopted these techniques from my mother who used to really embarrass me when she would pull people over to get “the info.” Here are some methods to finding a GEM.
- I hang out in coffee shops and listen. That’s how I got the name of an amazing cleaning service in Seattle. I heard a woman telling some people about her service and I chatted her up to get the number.
- When I spot a vehicle decked out with advertising decals, I do a quick study of the branding and size-up the person driving. Sometimes I’m looking for a dirty pick-up truck and other times I’m looking for a brand new F250 depending on the job (hauling vs. nice landscaping). I snap a photo and give them a call.
- I ask the most successful people I know, who they use. Surprisingly enough, they don’t always use the most expensive people but they ALWAYS go to the best. Remember though, paying top dollar can be worth it. Also, seeing an example of someone’s work is the most reliable advertisement.
- I like to do a phone interview or consult appointment so I can get a feel for the service they provide and they can figure out if they can fill my needs. This should be complimentary.
- Yelp.com can be incredible. I find the reviewers who “look/sound” like me (i.e. annoyingly anal about cuticles) and looking for key detail words applicable to the industry. I look to see the EXACT PERSON the yelper is recommending and make my appointment with that person only.
- I keep an open mind. If you know someone who does something very well and think that they can do something ELSE you need very well, ASK! Even though they don’t advertise that service, they may do it on the side or WANT to do it on the side. For example, maybe you have an incredible interior designer that you click with and you would love his/her take on your garden landscaping. They might be thrilled for the extra business and flattered none the less. You might be opening doors of opportunity for them and getting another great custom service for yourself.
- Keep trying. I went to Pottery Barn and worked with MANY different stylists to find the one who had a design style that fit me. I go to him for help often now!
My favorite manicurist, Bonnie, in San Diego still sends me “messages” through all the people I referred to her when I lived there. Help your favorite people out by being walking advertisements for them. That is the reason I did not need to advertise when I had an acupuncture practice. Thank you, amazing patients! You referrals were abundant and you sent me wonderful people!
What other tips do you have for finding the perfect services? Who is the gem you refer to the most? Are you one of those people who keeps tight-lipped about your gems in fear that they will get too busy for you?
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