Craigslist * Trades/Skills* Tree Care
- Thread starter ReefRaider
- Start date
- Location
- Philadelphia, PA
I am from the Philadelphia area and I know exactly what you are talking about with craigslist. You have guys on there using some pretty questionable tactics to try and secure work, everything from derogatory racial / ethnic slurs, to using "CHEAP" as their main selling point...sickening! Where have all of the professionals gone? If I had to say less than half of the guys on craigslist are even insured. It really makes me question why I put the time and effort into becoming a Certified Arborist and operating legitimately to begin with. I once found a guy on there claiming to be a Certified Arborist, so I went to the ISA's website and searched his last name, turns out he was not...big surprise! It really has nothing to do with being able to be a better salesman either. The reality of the situation is that a lot of people use craigslist these days and you just can't compete with guys running illegitimately, when you are operating legitimately! I hear you man, what we have going on here in the Philadelphia area is slowly but surely driving our industry into the ground. <ul type="square">ISA Certified Arborist [/list]
- Location
- NJ
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It really makes me wonder why I put the time and effort into becoming an ISA certified arborist to begin with sometimes.
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Cuase ya thought it was going to make you better than the next guy. But then ya found they really don't mean that much in real world.
It really makes me wonder why I put the time and effort into becoming an ISA certified arborist to begin with sometimes.
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Cuase ya thought it was going to make you better than the next guy. But then ya found they really don't mean that much in real world.
easyphloem
Branched out member
- Location
- Louisville, KY
Holly, you crazy.
SZ
SZ
- Location
- Springfield, MO USA
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I once found a guy on there claiming to be a certified arborist, so I went to the ISA's website and searched his last name, turns out he was not...big surprise!
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Hey, ratherbe,
We have a new company rolled into town this last year, the new phone book is out, and they have a full-page ad under tree care, and a half page ad under stump grinding. That costs a lot of money, but my issue was with them having the ISA certified arborist logo on their ad, and a picture of one of the owners saying he is a certified arborist. After checking up on it, he is not, and I didn't know if there was much you can do about it. I told our local Conservation Dept. forester about it, and she jumped in with both feet.
ISA has sent them an ultimatum to cease using their name and logo, to have all kinds of documentation from their advertisers, and given them 10 days to respond to avoid legal action. I know they won't respond, so I anticipate some aggressive action on the part of the ISA, apparently they have stepped up their attack on illegal use of their logo and name. It wouldn't hurt for you to turn them in, it is worth a try.
I once found a guy on there claiming to be a certified arborist, so I went to the ISA's website and searched his last name, turns out he was not...big surprise!
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Hey, ratherbe,
We have a new company rolled into town this last year, the new phone book is out, and they have a full-page ad under tree care, and a half page ad under stump grinding. That costs a lot of money, but my issue was with them having the ISA certified arborist logo on their ad, and a picture of one of the owners saying he is a certified arborist. After checking up on it, he is not, and I didn't know if there was much you can do about it. I told our local Conservation Dept. forester about it, and she jumped in with both feet.
ISA has sent them an ultimatum to cease using their name and logo, to have all kinds of documentation from their advertisers, and given them 10 days to respond to avoid legal action. I know they won't respond, so I anticipate some aggressive action on the part of the ISA, apparently they have stepped up their attack on illegal use of their logo and name. It wouldn't hurt for you to turn them in, it is worth a try.
- Location
- Philadelphia, PA
Quote: Cuase ya thought it was going to make you better than the next guy. But then ya found they really don't mean that much in real world.
Better,no. A little more valuable as as professional arborist, yes. However, they apparently don't mean a whole lot to the vast majority of consumers seeking tree work today.
Better,no. A little more valuable as as professional arborist, yes. However, they apparently don't mean a whole lot to the vast majority of consumers seeking tree work today.
- Location
- NJ
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ISA has sent them an ultimatum to cease using their name and logo, to have all kinds of documentation from their advertisers, and given them 10 days to respond to avoid legal action. I know they won't respond, so I anticipate some aggressive action on the part of the ISA, apparently they have stepped up their attack on illegal use of their logo and name.
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Man this guy. Not that it's right for him to say he is ISA certed while not being. But, for YOU to REPORT someone for something while behind the ISA back you are doing TOPPING, And posting pictures here about. And for none to take action on YOU just make this place abunch of welll I think ya know. But, I applaud you on your certed accompaniments and the ability to pull the wool over the boards eyes.
ISA has sent them an ultimatum to cease using their name and logo, to have all kinds of documentation from their advertisers, and given them 10 days to respond to avoid legal action. I know they won't respond, so I anticipate some aggressive action on the part of the ISA, apparently they have stepped up their attack on illegal use of their logo and name.
[/ QUOTE ]
Man this guy. Not that it's right for him to say he is ISA certed while not being. But, for YOU to REPORT someone for something while behind the ISA back you are doing TOPPING, And posting pictures here about. And for none to take action on YOU just make this place abunch of welll I think ya know. But, I applaud you on your certed accompaniments and the ability to pull the wool over the boards eyes.
- Location
- Philadelphia, PA
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Man this guy. Not that it's right for him to say he is ISA certed while not being. But, for YOU to REPORT someone for something while behind the ISA back you are doing TOPPING, And posting pictures here about. And for none to take action on YOU just make this place abunch of welll I think ya know. But, I applaud you on your certed accompaniments and the ability to pull the wool over the boards eyes.
So Holly, what's your story? It seems to me your really good at bashing everyone and this is the first time I've ever even been on this site. Are you that incredibly awesome at climbing too? I really hope the other folks on here aren't as irascible as you. I think I can actually feel myself lose a braincell or two every time I watch one of your tired tube videos. What was the one you sent me, something about an eagle and a fish stick? I'm so crushed, and please, if your going to retort, at least do it in proper sentence structure! Now, now, don't be upset with us because your boss recently laid you off, maybe YOU should give craigslist a try. I think you would fit in well there. By the way, never start a sentence with "And".
[/ QUOTE ]
Man this guy. Not that it's right for him to say he is ISA certed while not being. But, for YOU to REPORT someone for something while behind the ISA back you are doing TOPPING, And posting pictures here about. And for none to take action on YOU just make this place abunch of welll I think ya know. But, I applaud you on your certed accompaniments and the ability to pull the wool over the boards eyes.
So Holly, what's your story? It seems to me your really good at bashing everyone and this is the first time I've ever even been on this site. Are you that incredibly awesome at climbing too? I really hope the other folks on here aren't as irascible as you. I think I can actually feel myself lose a braincell or two every time I watch one of your tired tube videos. What was the one you sent me, something about an eagle and a fish stick? I'm so crushed, and please, if your going to retort, at least do it in proper sentence structure! Now, now, don't be upset with us because your boss recently laid you off, maybe YOU should give craigslist a try. I think you would fit in well there. By the way, never start a sentence with "And".
- Location
- NJ
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Holly, you crazy.
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was the hulk vid tooo much?
Holly, you crazy.
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was the hulk vid tooo much?
jim454
Participating member
- Location
- The land of Utopia
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Holly, you crazy.
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was the hulk vid tooo much?
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I for one had a really scary dream last night.
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Holly, you crazy.
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was the hulk vid tooo much?
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I for one had a really scary dream last night.
treehumper
Carpal tunnel level member
- Location
- Ridgefield, NJ
Rather, You say it's not about being a better at sales and your right. It's about being better at running your business which sales is a part of. Competition is competition. But are these guys really competing with your company? Have you really understood your market? Are you inadvertently competing with this type of operation? How much marketing do you do? Understand, advertising in the yellow pages, on Craigslist, or in the local media is just that advertising, one element of an overall marketing plan. How are you differentiating yourself? Do you have a booth at the Philadelphia Flower Show or volunteer there? Are there Landscaping or home shows that feature landscaping?
What about local garden centres? Offer any presentations or seminars on value of tree care? or discounted services to their customers. Joined the Property Managements, golf course superintendents, landscape assocations as an affliated business member? Offer to do some lectures at their meetings, even the local gardening society.
Marketing establishes your brand in the consumers mind and creates awareness of you with those who want your particular level and type of service. Selling is the process of understanding the client's needs and leading the client to see how your company can and will fulfill those needs best.
You can buy a Hershey's or Cadbury chocolate bar for a buck or less. Why does anyone pay more than that for a Lindt, Ghiradelli, or any other high end chocolate?
We are not unique in this problem. Learn how others have faced cut throat competition and overcome it.
What about local garden centres? Offer any presentations or seminars on value of tree care? or discounted services to their customers. Joined the Property Managements, golf course superintendents, landscape assocations as an affliated business member? Offer to do some lectures at their meetings, even the local gardening society.
Marketing establishes your brand in the consumers mind and creates awareness of you with those who want your particular level and type of service. Selling is the process of understanding the client's needs and leading the client to see how your company can and will fulfill those needs best.
You can buy a Hershey's or Cadbury chocolate bar for a buck or less. Why does anyone pay more than that for a Lindt, Ghiradelli, or any other high end chocolate?
We are not unique in this problem. Learn how others have faced cut throat competition and overcome it.
jim454
Participating member
- Location
- The land of Utopia
Spot on Rob,
Been there and done that with the yellow pages and such. My rep always told me that the way you get more business is to go with a bigger add, problem was that he told everyone else the same thing.
Last winter I scored a $10k job by making a cold call. It's cold here this week so I won't do much in the field but it's a great opportunity to find some more work. I was a fool for listening to the so called yellow pages marketing experts, not to mention all the money I gave them.
Been there and done that with the yellow pages and such. My rep always told me that the way you get more business is to go with a bigger add, problem was that he told everyone else the same thing.
Last winter I scored a $10k job by making a cold call. It's cold here this week so I won't do much in the field but it's a great opportunity to find some more work. I was a fool for listening to the so called yellow pages marketing experts, not to mention all the money I gave them.
treehumper
Carpal tunnel level member
- Location
- Ridgefield, NJ
It is what it is Jim, marketing. If it's the only way you keep your name out there then the investment needs to be made. The questions that need to be asked though are:
Is this my target market or is it too broad?
Can I spend the money on something more targeted?
Yellow pages is more general marketing that casts a wide net and says your out there but it also puts you in direct competition for eyeballs with all the others. The rep told everyone because that's the selling technique they use. Some will say yes and some will opt for something less expensive and in the end he walks away with his maximum commission. If he started with the smallest ad then he'd make less money. He works for yellow pages not you so guess who he's making the best recommendations for?
Cold calling is great if you do it right. Short to the point benefit statement and make sure you're talking to the person that makes the decision to buy. You'll make alot of calls, that will generate some appts. That will land a few sales. If you've got a good list of names the percentages will be better. Most consumer shows are all about getting a qualified list of potential buyers NOT about selling at the show. Yes, there will be a few sales made but more likely just identifying hot prospects.
In reality, the business owner should be spending more time on generating leads then actually doing the work. Strange? not really but it's the way you'll actually have more work and less time on your hands.
I've got a few more calls to make today and my goal? It's talk to 5 decision makers.
Nice sale Jim!
Is this my target market or is it too broad?
Can I spend the money on something more targeted?
Yellow pages is more general marketing that casts a wide net and says your out there but it also puts you in direct competition for eyeballs with all the others. The rep told everyone because that's the selling technique they use. Some will say yes and some will opt for something less expensive and in the end he walks away with his maximum commission. If he started with the smallest ad then he'd make less money. He works for yellow pages not you so guess who he's making the best recommendations for?
Cold calling is great if you do it right. Short to the point benefit statement and make sure you're talking to the person that makes the decision to buy. You'll make alot of calls, that will generate some appts. That will land a few sales. If you've got a good list of names the percentages will be better. Most consumer shows are all about getting a qualified list of potential buyers NOT about selling at the show. Yes, there will be a few sales made but more likely just identifying hot prospects.
In reality, the business owner should be spending more time on generating leads then actually doing the work. Strange? not really but it's the way you'll actually have more work and less time on your hands.
I've got a few more calls to make today and my goal? It's talk to 5 decision makers.
Nice sale Jim!
- Location
- NJ
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So Holly, what's your story? It seems to me your really good at bashing everyone and this is the first time I've ever even been on this site.
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What bashing. Just made some statements. Love you certed guys ya'll take everything said right to the heart. As for the Noel thing, that was a heated debate on a earlier thread. Have a read if ya like.
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Are you that incredibly awesome at climbing too?
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Some thing so. I'm a contract climber, If you'd like to find out just PM me. I charge a fair rate for a day. Sometimes I feel I should charge more for the schooling.
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I really hope the other folks on here aren't as irascible as you.
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In no way am I hot tempered. Funny how the cert holders have to use $5.00 words in a 50¢ area. Though there are afew here that will give ya a tounge lashing, should you provoke them.
AND I'll start a sentance any way I see fit. Have fun gaining your CEU's for going to alturna mat classes. You'll need them so's you can get your bucket truck close.
So Holly, what's your story? It seems to me your really good at bashing everyone and this is the first time I've ever even been on this site.
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What bashing. Just made some statements. Love you certed guys ya'll take everything said right to the heart. As for the Noel thing, that was a heated debate on a earlier thread. Have a read if ya like.
[ QUOTE ]
Are you that incredibly awesome at climbing too?
[/ QUOTE ]
Some thing so. I'm a contract climber, If you'd like to find out just PM me. I charge a fair rate for a day. Sometimes I feel I should charge more for the schooling.
[ QUOTE ]
I really hope the other folks on here aren't as irascible as you.
[/ QUOTE ]
In no way am I hot tempered. Funny how the cert holders have to use $5.00 words in a 50¢ area. Though there are afew here that will give ya a tounge lashing, should you provoke them.
AND I'll start a sentance any way I see fit. Have fun gaining your CEU's for going to alturna mat classes. You'll need them so's you can get your bucket truck close.
- Location
- Philadelphia, PA
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Some thing so. I'm a contract climber, If you'd like to find out just PM me. I charge a fair rate for a day. Sometimes I feel I should charge more for the schooling.
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Wow, a contract climber...who cares? So am I.
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In no way am I hot tempered. Funny how the cert holders have to use $5.00 words in a 50¢ area. Though there are afew here that will give ya a tounge lashing, should you provoke them.
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I could have chosen to use a smaller word, I just wanted to see how resourceful you were. I'd be willing to bet you had to look that up though.
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AND I'll start a sentance any way I see fit. Have fun gaining your CEU's for going to alturna mat classes. You'll need them so's you can get your bucket truck close.
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First of all, I don't even own a bucket truck, I climb everything! Second, I think your spelling could probably use a little work along with your SENTENCE composition. Here is a picture of me, just show you that along with being certified I'm also a serious climber. Yeah that's right, all certified guys don't just drive around in their truck all day looking at jobs or rely on buckets to complete their work. Come to think of it, I could possibly be a little better than YOU!
Some thing so. I'm a contract climber, If you'd like to find out just PM me. I charge a fair rate for a day. Sometimes I feel I should charge more for the schooling.
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Wow, a contract climber...who cares? So am I.
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In no way am I hot tempered. Funny how the cert holders have to use $5.00 words in a 50¢ area. Though there are afew here that will give ya a tounge lashing, should you provoke them.
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I could have chosen to use a smaller word, I just wanted to see how resourceful you were. I'd be willing to bet you had to look that up though.
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AND I'll start a sentance any way I see fit. Have fun gaining your CEU's for going to alturna mat classes. You'll need them so's you can get your bucket truck close.
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First of all, I don't even own a bucket truck, I climb everything! Second, I think your spelling could probably use a little work along with your SENTENCE composition. Here is a picture of me, just show you that along with being certified I'm also a serious climber. Yeah that's right, all certified guys don't just drive around in their truck all day looking at jobs or rely on buckets to complete their work. Come to think of it, I could possibly be a little better than YOU!
Attachments
Ratherbe, it's good to hear from someone in the philly area. Don't let that guy get under your skin with his negative statements or as he calls them. That’s all he has done since I started this post. I know one thing, I dam proud to be a certified arborist and that’s one thing know one can take from you. I've been in this business for 14 years and I've worked my a.. off to get where I am. Believe it or not I'm only 28, I run my own business and I contract climb 3 days a week.
Now I'm going to throw out a little $5.00 statement here. "The arborist certification program has successfully improved the profession by setting minimum standards of achievement, incentives for continuing education, and an improved image from both the arborist's and the general public's points of view." (According to the ISA)
But the $50 dollar question is what do you have to do to become alturnamat certified?
Now I'm going to throw out a little $5.00 statement here. "The arborist certification program has successfully improved the profession by setting minimum standards of achievement, incentives for continuing education, and an improved image from both the arborist's and the general public's points of view." (According to the ISA)
But the $50 dollar question is what do you have to do to become alturnamat certified?
- Location
- Springfield, MO USA
I know Hollenreich doesn't like me or what I stand for, but it sure would be boring if everyone liked me. Holly, you have been really good for me, believe it or not, as a lesson in keeping my cool with difficult customers, conflict resolution, and expressing myself clearly. I know there are a few things I can still learn from you, when you choose to jump in with useful knowledge (which you do seem to be doing more frequently these days). Just a hint for the new guys--once Hollen smells blood, he'll go for the heart--don't take the insults too seriously, he's just playin'.
HÖLLENREICH banned.
I've been informed that HÖLLENREICH has been banned again.
Shame.
Masterblaster, now Hollenreich.
This was the last thing he posted on, so I guess this is what did it.
?
I've been hearing masterblasters site has been getting a lot better, I haven't checked it out yet.
gypoclimber or something like that.
I've been informed that HÖLLENREICH has been banned again.
Shame.
Masterblaster, now Hollenreich.
This was the last thing he posted on, so I guess this is what did it.
?
I've been hearing masterblasters site has been getting a lot better, I haven't checked it out yet.
gypoclimber or something like that.
- Location
- Retired in Minneapolis
Not banned...he knows that he was given a second timeout.
Every discussion forum has a few participants who don't understand how to carry on a civil discussion.
X...if you'd like to know more, write to me.
Every discussion forum has a few participants who don't understand how to carry on a civil discussion.
X...if you'd like to know more, write to me.
TreeCo
Carpal tunnel level member
He's at ArborisSite now. Joy, joy. LOL!
BigBrass1 I believe. Tom, I'll whip him into shape and send him back. Might just teach him some manners, too.
BigBrass1 I believe. Tom, I'll whip him into shape and send him back. Might just teach him some manners, too.
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KBNest -Midline Attachable SRS Canopy Anchor.
- Started by TreeSteward
- Replies: 6
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