Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

What I did was put on there a samples basket and suggest people order that to try products first.  In regards to their order, they can return the merchandise for a full refund within a certain number of days.  It is tricky I agree.

That`s a really good idea! We`ve been contemplating a distribution kit, and a sample "kit" would probably be something along the same lines. I`m not sure it would work for all businesses, but I do like the overall concept. I`ll have to ponder that some more....

:-)

I operate a retail site and I do have a customer satisfaction guarantee whereby a customer can return a product for a credit (minus shipping) if they are not satisfied. Some products are not included due to their size/weight/awkwardness.

I find it works well and more than anything it reassures customers I am hot there to rip them off but give them more of an impression I am partnering with them in their purchase.

Reassuring customers online is the key to online sales I have found.



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What do you think of a no refund policy for services rendered.  Especially when customers pay in advance?

I`ve always had a no refund policy with very few exceptions and find myself torn.  As a business owner I don`t think it is fair that anyone can just say I no longer want your service half way through , which happens, because we have allocated resources and time to prepare for that customer.  At the same time is it worth not giving them a refund to have an upset customer.  Or are they just going to be upset anyway no matter what?  Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Mark,
The problem here is that standing behind one`s product has little to do with customers who want a free ride. Consider the person who buys a suit or dress from a large retailer.

They use the clothing for an evening out on the town, perhaps even spilling some wine on the outfit. Then they want to return the item on Monday, saying that they`re not satisfied with the product (for no reason).

Why should a retailer support a customer who "borrows" their products? When the product is returned, now being used and no longer in new condition, the retailer either has to throw the item away, mark it as used or refurbished, or otherwise take a loss.

How does a no-return policy in this situation equate with not standing behind their product?

  It`s interesting because I was just updating my site with a return`s policy.  I only allow returns if our product doesn`t meet expectations.  So if someone hates a candle scent I refund them the amount for the candle IF it hasn`t been burned and returned within a reasonable time frame.  Anyone think store credit is a better option??

Soy Candles


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I have now gone in a different direction after my Fibromyalgia etc.. really made me realize my true vocation.  Though it is going to be mainly seminars, and medication DVDs and CDs, what I will do is offer free mini meditations and contact four eco spas to see about offering 30 minute group meditations at 20% off, so people get a sense of who I am and I can get testimonials.  If there is anyway to offer small samples or anything like that I think it helps.  With clothing, if you have at least a few brick and mortar stores that carry the stuff it helps.