Ever get a WIN, but feel bad about it?

[Puckstop31]

We gained a new client today. But how we got this one was a bit uncomfortable.

One of our 'competitors' is a small, one man show. I've met him and he is a righteous dude. He asked for our help with selling Microsoft's new online services. The client wanted hosted online Exchange. (Mail services) The competitor did US a favor and asked us to set up the initial stuff because we are a Gold Microsoft Partner and get some money for online services we 'sell'.

Well, I did all that. The problem is the competitor really hosed up the installation of the services. He called and I tried to help him as best I could, but I can't just give away the store, ya know? So I ended up having to bail him out.

The client fired him and wants us to take over their service. I tried really hard to do the right thing and not step on his toes. But he had them in really bad shape and email is a critical part of the clients business.

The (evil) capitalist in me wants to cheer.... But I still feel bad for the guy. I have not talked to him yet, I hope he does not think we set him up, because that is NOT how we roll here.

Ugh.

 

[Renee750il]

Sometimes stuff like that happens. It's to your credit that you aren't gloating -- speaks volumes about the kind of human being you are

That said, if he did mess it up that badly, it IS on him for losing his client. Maybe it will spur him to upgrade his technical knowledge so that it doesn't happen again.

If it was that far out of his expertise level, he may actually be relieved, too.

 

[Taqroy]

That said, if he did mess it up that badly, it IS on him for losing his client. Maybe it will spur him to upgrade his technical knowledge so that it doesn't happen again.

If it was that far out of his expertise level, he may actually be relieved, too.

This. That really sucks for him but....if he was doing it *that* wrong then something needed to change. I'd still feel bad for him though.

 

[Jules]

If you frequently have to deal with him (or even if not), it might be nice to send him an email. You could just let him know that you had nothing to do with the client firing him, but as a business, you had to take on the new client.

It'll just take a minute, make you feel better, and him probably, too. I think people (not directed at you, just in general) nowadays underestimate the power of respect and being polite. People really appreciate it.

 

[Puckstop31]

Ugh.

I had to go back for a follow up with the clients accounting person and to take care of the formalities of coming on with us.

He showed up to get his last invoice payment and to talk to the owners.


As I was leaving, I ran into him in the parking lot. We talked a bit and it seems he has a LOT going on in his life right now that is less than positive. I told him that it was never my intent for this to happen. He told me he understands and I believe him.


I told him I am not going to pry into his business, but if he ever decided that running his buisness gets to overwhelming to give us a call. We could either outright aquire his client list, or possibly bring him into the 'fold' with us.


Anyway, I feel really bad for the guy. He did not say so and I did not want to pry... But he gave the vibe of problems at home. He just seemed sad. I hope things work out for him and that he does make that call to us. Being a one man show is VERY difficult to do in this business.

Thanks for letting me share/vent.