BBB stongarm tactics??

Big Mike

Big Mike

Member
Just had a ten minute argument with our local BBB rep. Seems they want me back badly, but when I explain that for $480 I don't see a good ROI, she really got offended. I joined up in 2006 and specifically told the rep I spoke with that I track new advertising and memberships closely, to see if the cash outlay is worth it. BBB didn't cut the muster so I dropped it. I get calls several times a year asking to come back, and I tell them "no" after they can't define any benefits for my company. I explained that most people DO NOT go to the BBB to check out companies, but do go there to complain about them. I told her that Angie's List blows them away, and I am listed for FREE. Also told her I'd rather spend the $480 on SEO results than a membership. She seemed really irked that I knew what I was talking about, and kept cutting me off mid-sentence while I was explaining why I won't re-up. Needless to say she got hung up on. Sorry for the rant, but SHE CALLED ME!! Anyone out there get REAL benefits (not perceived) from that org??
 
Last year we did almost 5k from customers that said they used us over the comp because we were on BBB and they were not. Now, would they have chosen us anyways? Maybe. Its very hard to judge because you don't know what else comes into play in their decision.

For us, its worth it. We have a couple reviews on angies list, both positive but I would love to have more.
 
Mine was the same situation. When they tried to tell me that customers could verify that we have a good business because I'm a member, I reminded them that a customer can get on their site and look for negative hits on us without costing us a dime.
 
I get calls all the time from the locals and they still can't understand simple things.

I don't even like talking to them anymore, it is a waste of time in my opinion, maybe some people get some benefits or value for the money but they could not show me any benefit or value for my money here.

Maybe in larger cities it might be worth it but not where I live.

I agree, they don't like educated and informed people that can better use that money for the business.

I have had 1 person in the past 6.5 years ask if I was a member of the bbb, it was a price shopper and probably one of their people calling to try to make it look like people actually ask if you are a member or not.
 
Irritating isn't it. Is there a way to file a complaint against the BBB in their own system?

I basically told them to pound sand also. Their system only works IF you are a subscriber. There is no info on a company if you do not subscribe. I agree with Mike, it is not cost effective.
 
Michael T said:
Irritating isn't it. Is there a way to file a complaint against the BBB in their own system?

I basically told them to pound sand also. Their system only works IF you are a subscriber. There is no info on a company if you do not subscribe. I agree with Mike, it is not cost effective.
Click to expand...


Not on their system that I'm aware of,but a place like www.ripoffreport.com is awesome for showing the rest of the world what great business people they aren't.
 
I track all my leads. Last few years we tracked $10k+/yr to leads that stated that they found me on the BBB site. They actually looked to the BBB for finding a contractor.

That said, our BBB has billboards advertising "Do business with a member" and has a spot on the news each week. They actively market.
 
I just canceled a contract with Angies List, I origionally signed up for free through there Company Connect program. Got one call, got a great report. then they suckered me into paying $165.00 a month for a ad in their monthly magazine and be one of only two that would be highlighted when customers did a search. Did this for 5 months, finally canceled when I couldn't get my rep to return phone calls or even emails when I was pleading for help. Their Cusomer Service was terrible. I told them if I provided the customer service that they have given me, I'd be graded an F.

Have no use for them or the BBB. BBB is just like any other business out there, trying to make a profit. Theya re not as a lot of people think, a government agency.
 
FCPWLLC said:
I track all my leads. Last few years we tracked $10k+/yr to leads that stated that they found me on the BBB site. They actually looked to the BBB for finding a contractor.

That said, our BBB has billboards advertising "Do business with a member" and has a spot on the news each week. They actively market.
Click to expand...


Your facebook like button has a double "http" in it.
 
The BBB unfortunately is a business in itself and while I'm not a big fan of thier practice we are a member for marketing purposes. It IMO definately adds to credibility and helps in closing the sale on the spot.

What I DONT agree with however is the pay to play tactics. We have a competitor here that has 15+ complaints on his report (some satisfied - some not) and he still maintains an A+. SINCE he's a paying member his score is raised nearly a full grade just for being a member.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top