“It costs how much?”

           

            You’ve had that response once or twice in your life right? What was it for – a new SmartPhone? An electrician? A laptop? A tutor for your child? Chances are you had an idea of what these cost based on your expectation of the value it held for you – but didn’t realize the value of said item/service overall. Put another way: there are many things you may not have considered about the product or service that are valuable that you didn’t figure into the cost. If you only ask for cost you may not know what realize what you’re NOT getting.

            Let’s use an example of an oil change business. One may cost $29.95 while one across town may cost $42.99. “Wow” you think “I’m going to the first one.” Without investigating further you would stop there. What if I told you that the second one offers the following for FREE: Car Wash, Beverage (coffee, tea, soda, juice or water), 33 point engine check, Top Off’s of fluids, Wi-Fi while you wait? Suddenly you may see a value / benefit if you could get some online work done while you wait while enjoying a beverage (one for your kids too) and leave with info on other areas of you car that may need service soon. That’s value…but you don’t know it by just judging the quoted price.

            What would the first service really cost you? It could be some productivity while waiting. It could also be a less comfortable wait time with nothing to drink or a nice place to settle while work is being performed. What about long term for your car? If the mechanic doesn’t check anything else in your car – you may not know that your battery’s corroded, spark plug wires are frayed, wiper fluid container leaks or the serpentine belt is worn in two places! If these items aren’t noticed, you don’t have time to plan for their repair – and may find yourself unexpectedly stuck somewhere!

            Next month – we’ll focus on how this could affect your inquiries into entertainment services. If you know of someone seeking value in their quest – forward them “The Next Event…” or give us a call! -707-575-8169.