The 'Velvet Rope' Treatment?

This morning we found ourselves with a clogged kitchen sink. This has happened several times over the past six months. It is frustrating.

Normally, I would call my friend Vicki at Century Rooter and they would be out as promised, "If it doesn't flush, we'll be out in a rush."

I didn't make that call immediately. Instead, I tried someone different today. 

A few months back I wrote to you about a "Dan Kennedy-esque"-type letter that I had received for over 9 years from someone about cleaning and maintaining our air conditioner.

We ultimately did work with them, and they did a solid and professional job, then.

While they were here, they offered us a monthly membership program that included discounts on future service on air conditioning, heat, and plumbing.

"For $20 bucks a month, you receive all the benefits of being a member", (yadi-yada).

That $20 a month promised "The Velvet Rope" treatment. You know, "to the head of the line", "you're important", "we take care of our members", etc.

We called them this morning, and we really didn't receive the velvet rope treatment. First, we tried to get an appointment for another service that we already paid for. For that, we were told they could get out to us on December 22nd.

For the sink issue, we were told that they could come out possibly in 48 hours. Meaning, we were supposed to live with a clogged sink for two days.

We were told on the phone that the fee would be $80, when in fact our member materials say that it is only $50.

We were promised benefits of membership and they weren't going to deliver. So, we canceled our membership right there and then.

As soon as we hung up from them, I then dialed my loyal, trusted friends at Century Rooter and they said, "We are busy today, but we'll be sure to get out today as soon as possible. We'll call you once our plumber is on their way."

I can always count on them.

After reading this... What's the Big Lesson for you?

Reply to this message and tell me. :)

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Craig Valine is a Marketing Performance Strategist from Pasadena, CA. For over 25 years, he's helped LA area owner-operated entrepreneurial businesses and professional practices, who are already doing well, but just want to do better, reduce the stress and overwhelm that's associated with running a successful business. 

He does that through his EMP Alliance VIP Community, Advanced Marketing Mastermind Group, and Private Client relationships. 

To learn more about Craig, visit CraigValineMarketing.com