Posted by Martin on August 29, 19100 at 10:08:30 :
In Reply to: menu proposal problems posted by Jon on August 29, 19100 at 00:00:17 :
This is a common problem when dealing with the public. Most people want something for nothing and the closer they can come to nothing the better they feel. Most are willing to sacrifice quality for quanity. You give them a menu item of $12.00 a person and they come back and say..."That 's a little more than we planned to spend"...(you say) Well, "How much had you planned on spending"? (they say) Oh, 5 or 6 dollars a person...(you say) Oh, I must have misunderstood your request...Let me give you our "Blue Light Special" menu..(if you don't have one make up one fast) This way you have one last chance at winning them over and very little effort on your part. If they come back (or not) at least you tried and if they don't they were probably just feeling the waters to begin with.
I have found that most people don't have a clue when they call a caterer of the cost associated with service to others.
I always have the standby "lowball" menu for the folks like you described above. Usually prepared and delivered, pick-up check (always leave plenty of business cards)and leave. Business is business. In most cases a referal will be gained from one of the "lowballs" guest. Just my opinion.