How to advertise this without being taken advantage of?

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Papa Deuce

DJ Extraordinaire
Aug 8, 2006
19,843
593
61
Valley Forge Area
I think that I would like to offer a 5% - 10% discount to all of my parties to the following groups:

Military
Cops
Fire Fighters
Teachers

So, I want people to know that it exists BEFORE calling, but I don't want people asking me about it if they are just scamming me for the discount. I know I can quote them the discount after giving them a phone quote, but that means they find out about it after calling.

Any ideas?
 
You may wish to make it clear that you meet with the prospects before offering the discount. The discount applies only to bonafide persons in the aforementioned professions.
 
I currently offer a 9.11% discount to any police, fire, paramedic or military personnel. I have never had a problem with anyone taking advantage of it but then again I have only used it twice. The 911 theme is pretty strong in my town. The local barber charges $9.11 for emergency workers and there is a restaurant that offers $9.11 dinners as well.

young...
 
Ask for proof.

I was asked if I gave military discounts. I didn't but I did because I asked. I asked to see his military ID. He mailed a copy of it.
 
People will know that you're going to ask to see some sort of proof before you write up your contract. So no need to worry about scammers.


Can I assume you're planning on using this to drum up more business to those clients? Just add "Discounts to qualified individuals." Or spell it out: "Military, Police, Firefighter and Teacher Discounts available."

The other option is to not publicize, but to use it as a standard reply when someone asks about discounts.
 
"Special packages available to first line responders and educators"

Dave
 
Just don't give discounts unless you decide you want to for whatever group!
 
Papa,

As an active full time firefighter at the time of 9-11 we were all taken care of quite well. People began to recognize us again for who we are and what we do. That in of itself was heart felt. Expecting a discount from anyone was just not something that was or is expected. Don't get me wrong, it's nice when people offer it but I wouldn't go looking for it. I can tell you first hand I don't see any fire or police families starving. At least around me anyway.

What would make it a generous offer or heart felt thanks is going above and beyond after these people become your clients. This way you can judge by the individual and decide whether or not they should get it.

He's a quick story. I has a fellow firefighter inquire about my service for his wedding next year. I didn't know him personally but we shared some mutal acquaintances. After speaking with the two of them I offered them a $100 discount. He called me back a few days later and tried to get me to come down another $95. Needless to say I will not be doing their wedding. This turned into an ego thing with him. He said they wanted me but only if I could come down in price. I offered to find them a DJ that would fit their budget. So that right there told me it was a money issue, he expected to get a cheaper price because of who he was. I even heard from our mutual acquaintance (his captain) who asked if I could come down in price. And these are my own brothers. They don't seem to care that I need to make a living. I don't have the opportunity to work overtime and second jobs like I use to as easily as those active duty guys do. There is a bit more into his ego but I'll leave that out.

This is just my opinion as I'm sure whatever you decide will be what's best for your business.
 
Thanks, Ron... none of those groups are exactly starving, but they are people who do jobs I respect, and generally think they are underpaid for what they do for society in general....

We have lots of cops and firefighters in my and my wife's family. And I admire the heck out of teachers. And, well, military folks I definitely support.
 
As a full time firefighter in NH I offer $100 off final payment for Full Time Fire/Police/EMS and Military Personal. If in question I ask to see their Military or Union Card. I also do not mention it till our meeting and they are interested in hiring me.
 
DJ Meehan,

I was just up in your neck of the woods in August. I play for Worcester Fire Pipes and Drums (I'm Milford Fire retired). We played at Hampton Beach for the McGuirks golf tournament.

Papa,
Don't get me wrong here, I respect what you're doing and it's a noble gesture. Last year I had the honor of playing for the Marine Corp birthday ball. Their quotes from other DJ's were around $1200. Let's just say that was ridiculous and I did for a lot less. This year their holding it in my town and I'm charging a $100 less than last year because I don't have to travel and it's much less time for me. I also played for one of the Sgt's. home coming party for nada. It was on a Thursday so I wasn't doing anything anyway. If he could be gone for a year in Iraq serving this great country I think I could spend a few hours welcoming him home. That's how I landed the Marines Birthday gigs.

As for the police, well here in MA that's a different story. Let's just say there are plenty of Cadillacs, BMW's, tricked out pickups, etc. sitting on the side of the police station. You should see their houses. I kid you not. Underpaid they are not, at least around here. And I know what their job is, I've worked side by side with them for 28 years. But, when they ask me to do a fundraiser for one of the guys who's daughter has a brain tumor, and her married name is Auger (no relation) I was there without question.

Again, you have your reasons for giving the discount mostly because you have a kind heart. But do know that once you advertise it you will be expected to offer it to everyone. Good luck.


P.S.
If you want to help out those who get paid dirt for doing what not many want to do think of offering it to EMS workers. I don't mean Municipal fire EMT's but those working for the private companies who make between $10-$15 dollars an hour. The ones who take care of us when we're sick. Those people deserve a break because they certainly are not in their job for the money.
 
I teach Stupid Pet Tricks. Rick ya wanna back me on this one? Sorry Papa Im proud to be your friend as I know the heart you have. Put it on the line and let the world know your respect. Then make sure they show credentials. I havent the pet license so I will pay full price.
 
Hi Ron, I am in Rochester and have turned down playing for our PFFNH pipes and drums as I am a past member of the Granite State Highlanders and have no time for another activity.

Papa I would say go for it, what do you have to lose just make sure if there is any question you kindly ask for Military or Union Card. For myself I leave our teachers out as they are the City's biggest budget. Good Luck!
 
DJ Meehan,
Let me guess, you're a snare drummer? I am. As I tell the pipers, we are the ones with talent.:sqlaugh: