Over the past couple of months we've been courting a RV Dealer in NY who expressed interest in our RV Dealer Website Design and Marketing Services. Alot of time was spent on the phone going over how our dealer websites are so successful and multiple demos with different folks. They finally gave the verbal agreement and we sent a contract, invoice for deposit, and our planning/setup guides.

One Day Later
I get a call saying that want to get started immediately when can I come out. Our policy is soon as we receive the contract and deposit we'll make travel arrangements. That seemed like it would take too long for them and I agreed that I would make travel arrangements right away if they promised to send out the contract/deposit the next day.

Two Days Later
I get called into a phone conference with their sales manager and top salesman. Sounded like they had been taken advantage of in the past by another company and had a few concerns after going over the planning/setup guide. We talked through their concerns, but their was definately a negative fog in the room.

Three Days Later
I called to see how the planning was coming along and was told that they decided to do it in-house. Actually, the top salesman wanted to do the website. Management didn't want to 'rock the boat' and have issues so that was their decision. I understood from a personnel management side of things. So, I reminded her that I would be sending an invoice for the plane ticket I had purchased at her request. Her response was, 'How about I pay half'. Does integrity exist anymore?

5 Days Later
The more I think about how much expertise, knowledge, and time it takes to build and management a website that truly produces results I couldn't help but think about this top salesman who is caught in a catch-22. If he works on the website like it should be done he won't be selling RV's. If he sells RV's like he should be doing he won't have time for the website.

It's all about Opportunity Cost! Until next time...

Just recently I went into my bank to close out an old account. While the teller was doing what they do behind the counter I found myself looking through the dish of Dum Dum's looking for an interesting flavor. The gentlemen that was helping me soon came back and I asked him if he suggested the 'Mystery Flavor' Dum Dum?

His response kinda caught me off guard. I mean, after all it was in fun anyway. He simply said, "I wouldn't. You might get one you don't like". I left the bank, but for the rest of the day couldn't help thinking about that simple exchange.

Think about it. How much risk was really involved with trying the mystery flavor? I couldn't help but think to myself what is the worst that could happen? It's a sucker for crying out loud.

The point that I took away from it all was when making decisions in family or business consider the risk. Maybe you are content with making 'safe' decisions, if there is such a thing, but just think of all the wonderful adventures in life you might be missing.

So, what flavor did I take? Mystery Flavor of course:)