[Jewelry making - Article 00535] - Re: [Orchid] Wholesaling one-offs

[Michael Rogers]

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Hi Karen,

>     At what POINT do you get the signature on the order form-- at the
>     show? after you've produced design concept sketches? when you've
>     agreed to a prototype's production run? As the designer, do I ask
>     for a percent of payment up front as I currently do with custom
>     customers? (I do 50% up front, 25% when final design is agreed to,
>     25% before shipment of final product) And how about that final
>     payment -- I assume that as a good businessperson I should receive
>     it prior to shipping them the order, correct? 

    There are no hard and fast rules for this. The circumstances will
    govern your up front requirements. Just don't sell yourself short. 

    Generally, if I am asked to design in a certain direction, and I
    don't know, or more importantly don't have a payment history
    established with the client, I will require a minimum order and get
    at least half down, with an agreement for half on delivery before I
    get started. Whew - run on sentence! 

    We require credit references and check them thoroughly. I highly
    recommend having some credit applications handy. 

    Once a client is established, the minimum order and payment
    requirements are usually well understood. We quite often charge
    credit cards before we ship. 

    A note of caution. Clients who constantly attempt to renegotiate
    lower prices and lower up front costs for themselves are trouble. When
    you see this pattern emerging, find a way to make a polite exit. Your
    time is better spent elsewhere. 

    Recently, a fairly new client wanted a large order. He wanted it made
    quickly, and wanted some fairly radical modifications of some
    existing designs (mine, of course). We agreed to up front payment in
    full. It worked out fine. 

    I talk much faster than I write, and can cover more ground that way.
    If you would like to chat with me about some of your other questions,
    please call me at the workshop -(505)881-3367. I can usually be
    reached Mon - Fri, 8-5 Mountain. 

    I will close with a shameless plug. 

    We are still accepting resumes for a full time salaried sales rep
    position. 

    Email resumes directly to me at mmrogers AT mmrogers.com. Please don't
    attempt to forward resumes though Orchid. We prefer PDF files. Send
    references - a minimum of five. We WILL call them, so make sure all
    telephone numbers are current. 

Sincerely,

Michael Rogers
mmrogers AT mmrogers.com

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