Advice needed for response to customer

[ash]

I've got a message on my answering service from someone who wants to "get a copy" of an XP cd so that he can solve his own problems. He seems to think he knows what to do...if only he had a cd. Just wants to borrow it, etc.

I haven't gotten a call like this yet and am wondering what to tell him ("no") in a way that I still might get his business. I mean, that's what I do, right? I wouldn't just give someone else my tools in order to fix their problems...but I don't want to tell him that.

[Kenhelms]

do you call a auto mechanic for schematic printouts?

I would say " sorry but I cant do that, as im microsoft affilliated and that would be a conflict of interest"

[seedubya]

No, that's NOT what you do. You don't get involved with someone like that at all. You'll never have any peace. I wouldn't even call him back. You're going to waste your time even explaining yourself to this freeloader? C'mon!

[ClickRight]

Let him know he can "borrow it and keep it" for $150.

Seriously though, I wouldn't return the call.

[MrUnknown]

im with the do not call back crowd. You more than likely aren't going to gain him as a customer by calling him back (he obviously thinks he can do it on his own) and like others said, if you give in, he wont leave you alone.

If you manage to gain him as a customer, I would think he would be the kind always negotiating your price, hes obviously cheap.

[purple_minion]

If he's "smart enough" to "do it on his own" why the hell is he calling you. Really... he knows exactly what the issue is but can't find a CD? I don't even know what to say to that.

[MHCG]

This guy is looking for something for nothing. I wouldn't even waste my time calling the guy back.

[Luis]

Originally Posted by MichianaComputers

IMHO THERE IS NO REASON TO NOT RETURN A CALL!!!!

I completely agree. There is always the chance for miscommunication. Better yet, offer him to visit his place and teach him how to do it for a fee. Or kindly let him know that you do not rent software and then refer him to microsoft's TechNet. There is always an alternative.

I personally would ask him whats wrong and why he feels he needs the disc in the first place, he may have a virus and think he can fix it with windows disc. Just my two cents.

[MHCG]

I guess it boils down to your personal business. Do you have the time/patience to waste on the very remote possibility of making a sale?

Personally, I've dealt with too many cheap ass people that want something for nothing and when you relent, they keep coming back when they need something else for free. They have no shame.

These people are wasting MY time and time is money.

[purple_minion]

Personally I might even call him back for a good laugh. Find out his issue and what he intends to do. I might even enjoy watching him fumble around. Could be good!

Plus the best benefit is you could give us all a good chuckle by taking notes and telling us the story.