Zen Jeweler: Falling On Your Sword

Published

16 years ago

May 2, 2008

INSTORE Staff

I have a theory. The best clients can often be made from the biggest mistakes. Penicillin was a mistake, Velcro was a mistake. So was the day I took in a broken wedding ring from a stranger, and sent it to the wrong manufacturer. Three weeks later it came back, and I hurried it off to the proper company, where they replaced it at a cost of 10 times what I'd told the client it would cost. I charged the small amount I had promised, and two weeks later the other spouse's wedding ring broke, same spot. Now we were experts, and as a courtesy, I didn't charge any more for the second repair than I had for the first. Dumb, huh?

They later returned and bought his-and-hers watches for $10,000. Do you think they would have if I'd been tough about the repairs?

More clients' hopes are dashed at the repair counter than anywhere else. Stay tough there, and it will cost you more than you think.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”