Originally Posted by
Tekboy
Absolutely. Conversely, have some common sense. Do NOT let someone talk your rate down because you are new. Just. Don't.
One of the advantages I had in my business in Alaska was the fact that I play well with humans, which is more rare in our business than in most. I have found that most people who spend lots of time with computers tend to lack people skills. Customer service is a must.
1) If you don't take good care of the customer, someone else will.
2) The customer is always right, unless he/she is about to screw themselves, at which time you tactfully inform them of such.
3) Remember attention to detail. If you do a good job, they will tell both of their friends. If you don't do a good job, they will tell everyone until they get tired of talking about it.
4) You are a small business, which means you are broke. Even if your account looks phat for a while, you are broke. However, for this reason, as soon as possible, get liability insurance.
There is more. Make people pay when they insult your intelligence, but make them like it. :D