Replying to email queries

[rob1963]

Until now, when receiving an email query, I've simply answered the question(s) raised, and asked them not to hesitate in contacting me if they have any further queries or wish to go ahead with a booking.

This week I've also started to attach a copy of my 120 most requested songs, to assist with their music selection.

My thinking is that offering something extra like assisting with their music selection, they are then more likely to come back & book ME...rather than one of the other discos they emailed a query to.

Do any of you do something like this?

...or does your reply to email queries just include a standard paragraph where you sell yourself & tell them all the things you can do for them?

Last week I actually had a ten fold increase in bookings, but that just happened to be a really good week...and I'm always looking to improve the way I do things.

Comments & suggestions please!

:)

[Vectis]

I have a block of "standard" text that I modify on a per-enquiry basis to suit the tone and what I interpret as the outline requirements. It's a lot easier to start with a lot of text and whittle it down than it is to type it all each time.

Essentially my standard text starts by highlighting my USPs and then goes into more detail about why they ought to book me rather than A.N.Other local disco.

I always round off by inviting them to browse the website where they can see feedback, pictures, videos, music, equipment, get an instant quote etc. etc. and finally offer to send them a brochure (or if I sense a big job or repeat booking potential I might even offer to meet them pre-sales as I know I'm REALLY good at converting when I'm face-to-face and the IoW is a small place so not too much hassle travelling).

[discomobiledj]

Same here really, have a standard template that I use, then change various parts of it accordingly.

[Ricesnaps]

We've had a similar conversation before, sure you'll remember it. Email or phone call? Your suggestion that offering something the other DJ isn't is certainly the way to get both more bookings and a better fee. For me this is what I would call "up-selling". For example, lets say my basic price was £250, on average my bookings are netting me between £325 and £500, simply because I can sell the client other thing. The key to this is selling the client exactly what they want, even though they probably didn't realise when they contacted me that they needed it. It's also key that the sale is based on a single quote rather than as add ons. I find it's much better to give a quote for a service, than a price for every part of that service.

This does bring us back to the email vs phone argument though. I'm sure I asked at the time how people worded emails to gain bookings. maybe this timne we can get some idea? Personally, I have no idea how an email can be a better method of communicatin your services and a clients needs than a phone call. A phone call is interactive, lets you listen and learn what a client wants and react and suggest in real time. Maybe you can do that with an email, but it's an area I don't find is my best feature.

[rob1963]

We've had a similar conversation before, sure you'll remember it. Email or phone call?

This does bring us back to the email vs phone argument

With all due respect, this thread is NOTHING to do with phone calls, or whether phone calls are more effective than emails. As you say, that was done on a previous thread.

It's about what information we give when we receive an email query & also have to answer with an email.

Any mention of phone calls is off topic.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

I have a standard draft email that I edit. I don't want to do their heads in with loads of information but then again I don't want to do a kind of simple, bare boned "The price is £---" etc...type reply.

I direct them to the customer feedback page on my website and also the information page too so that when they have time they can look through it. I offer free advice and help and I also have a couple of other little tips. I would say that out of say 10 email enquiries I get, at the moment I am converting probably 70% of them into confirmed bookings. Ideally I would like 100% but at the end of the day, you know and I know that no matter how good the email or phone call is, some people may not fancy the price tag.

[Sam]

With all due respect, this thread is NOTHING to do with phone calls, or whether phone calls are more effective than emails. As you say, that was done on a previous thread.

It's about what information we give when we receive an email query & also have to answer with an email.

Any mention of phone calls is off topic.

urmm.... anyway..

I think he raises a very valid point.
Whilst i deal with a number of email enquiries.. I find it much easier to secure the booking when speaking on the phone.
It is much better re. judging the client and their reactions etc. - and it also means that they feel you are more of a 'real' person that some text on a screen.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

That's true but sometimes they may be at work and can't talk on the phone so that's why they email you. Yes, I would much rather TALK to someone and use my phone and customer service skills but if your email reply is high quality and you mention in it that you are happy to talk to them aswell if they have any concerns then there shouldn't be a problem.

A decent email reply will get them interested in my view and then when you speak to them you can arrange a free consultation. I always do this and I have had very good feedback from it.

[PropellerHeadCase]

And you can re-read an email, you can't re-have a phone conversation (even if that's exactly how it feels, sometimes).

[rob1963]

urmm.... anyway..

I think he raises a very valid point.
Whilst i deal with a number of email enquiries.. I find it much easier to secure the booking when speaking on the phone.
It is much better re. judging the client and their reactions etc. - and it also means that they feel you are more of a 'real' person that some text on a screen.

AsTecDJs,

This thread is about what information we give when we receive a query by email, and when we HAVE to reply by email, as the person making the query does not give a telephone number.

[Ricesnaps]

With all due respect, this thread is NOTHING to do with phone calls, or whether phone calls are more effective than emails. As you say, that was done on a previous thread.

It's about what information we give when we receive an email query & also have to answer with an email.

Any mention of phone calls is off topic.

Was there any reason why you completely ignored the rest of my reply and decided to throw your dummies out of the pram because of one (and by the responses it had, it seems a fairly valid one) comment about phone and email. I certainly asked and raised a lot more comments than simply the phone / email debate.

For example:


My thinking is that offering something extra like assisting with their music selection, they are then more likely to come back & book ME...rather than one of the other discos they emailed a query to.

Do any of you do something like this?



For me this is what I would call "up-selling". For example, lets say my basic price was £250, on average my bookings are netting me between £325 and £500, simply because I can sell the client other thing. The key to this is selling the client exactly what they want, even though they probably didn't realise when they contacted me that they needed it

However, far from it being off topic, the use of telephone techniques is completely relevent to your original question as it is another very successful way to react to and better serve your potential client. Here's a way out idea, why not use both?


That's true but sometimes they may be at work and can't talk on the phone so that's why they email you. Yes, I would much rather TALK to someone and use my phone and customer service skills

Generally I start mnost of my callbacks with "is this a good time to talk" and sometimes you have to follow that with "when would be a better time" or even, god forbid, I'll pop some details in an email with our contact details.

Anyway, to get back to the comments I original made, based on Rob's superb thread, what makes the perfect email reply, some good thoughts so far!

[Vectis]

Ahem; just done some stats on email enquiries this year to date.

20% responded to by 'phone ('cos they gave the number and asked for a call)
80% responded to by email.

Of those responded to by 'phone, 100% conversion.
Of those responded to by email, 85% conversion (2 pendings though :D )

What I don't know is how folks came about my email address in the first place. I don't advertise it apart from on the website. I DO advertise the website and 0800 number. Maybe the high conversion rate is because they've already trawled the website and like what they see :o

[Ricesnaps]

Ahem; just done some stats on email enquiries this year to date.

20% responded to by 'phone ('cos they gave the number and asked for a call)
80% responded to by email.

Of those responded to by 'phone, 100% conversion.
Of those responded to by email, 85% conversion (2 pendings though :D )

What I don't know is how folks came about my email address in the first place. I don't advertise it apart from on the website. I DO advertise the website and 0800 number. Maybe the high conversion rate is because they've already trawled the website and like what they see :o

So what is it about your EMAIL response that get your the conversion?

[Vectis]

Already said (http://www.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/forums/showpost.php?p=149048&postcount=2) :o

[CRAZY K]

Until now, when receiving an email query, I've simply answered the question(s) raised, and asked them not to hesitate in contacting me if they have any further queries or wish to go ahead with a booking.

This week I've also started to attach a copy of my 120 most requested songs, to assist with their music selection.

My thinking is that offering something extra like assisting with their music selection, they are then more likely to come back & book ME...rather than one of the other discos they emailed a query to.

Do any of you do something like this?

...or does your reply to email queries just include a standard paragraph where you sell yourself & tell them all the things you can do for them?

Last week I actually had a ten fold increase in bookings, but that just happened to be a really good week...and I'm always looking to improve the way I do things.

Comments & suggestions please!

:)

Hi Rob, below is a copy of a quote I sent for a Birthday Party and was accepted:D

May give you some ideas--this is not intended for the Forum to criticize---it works for me!

YOU MAY NOT LIKE PARTS OF IT AS IT IS A PLAYLIST BASED DISCO


As you can see theres no-- ill phone you later to see what you think stuff---its very low key--


CRAZY K
=========================================
Dear Joanne, thanks for your enquiry.


Below is a quote to supply the Crazy K Birthday Party Barn Dance/Disco Show for your special event, if we can help further please let us know--we have recommendations from existing clients available, if you want to check out the show locally Crazy K is playing at a Barn Dance in Hemel Hempstead on the 15th September, if you cant attend heres a video clip of Crazy K working in Central London

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xj1_sybX1g



kind regards



ANGELA
OFFICE MANAGER CRAZY K BARN DANCE CALLER

www.crazyk.co.uk



===========================================



QUOTE FOR JOANNE --BIRTHDAY PARTY 2ND FEBRUARY 2008



VENUE--- WATFORD



ENTERTAINMENT ---CRAZY K BIRTHDAY PARTY BARN DANCE plus DISCO+ LIGHTS



The cost of our services for the event including travelling would be £600 ( no vat )



8PM TO 1AM ( 5 HOURS )



WHAT YOU GET



A TRULY PROFESSIONAL APPROACH



1. Barn Dances with FULL INSTRUCTIONS -- breaks between Dances--PLUS

A FEW SIMPLE LINE DANCES IF REQUIRED



2. YOUR CHOICE DISCO of Disco/Party Music from the Crazy “K” Playlist

SEE WEBSITE

Includes a collection of Music from the 60s to the 80s plus excellent
Party Music.

We play YOUR own favourite requests supplied before the event.

There is also a menu of more modern tracks available to choose from

SEE WEBSITE

You, and Your Party Guests can decide before the Party what the Music
is going to be - YOU CHOOSE- no excuses for people not Dancing!



TIMES: 8.00 PM TO 1AM


SO HOW DOES THIS DIFFER FROM A STANDARD BIRTHDAY DISCO?

1. You will get a very lively and positive Party with a wider variety of Music and Dancing than normal, including a very lively start with the Birthday Reel--a Barn Dance designed to get your guests mixing immediately with each other---


2. Alternating without gaps or breaks between Barn Dance / Line Dance and Disco during the WHOLE evening—allows possible flat spots later in the evening to be livened up with a quick Barn Dance/Line Dance

3. The event is run by CRAZY K the UKs No1 Professional Barn Dance Caller for Fun 25 years experience working successfully at Weddings and Socials as a Caller and DJ.

All Barn Dances explained, walked and talked through

4. All Disco and Party music mainly chosen BY YOU AND YOUR GUESTS
and played to YOUR instructions including sound levels

OTHER FEATURES THAT WE INCLUDE

Top of the Range Peavey Disco Sound System for clear announcements and
music quality -TEAR DROP HANDLES INCLUDED:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

Complete Lighting control for your function---Disco Lighting Effects used during Disco/ Party sessions

Coloured Floodlights used during Barn Dances


Public Liability Cover £5 million in case of accidents

Safety Tested Sound equipment to help prevent accidents and help comply with Health and Safety Requirements which will apply to your function

Written Contract confirming your booking

End of quote

[rob1963]

Thanks for all your replies.

From the posts so far, it looks like nobody else includes a list of their most requested songs when they reply to queries received by email.

Maybe I've found my USP!

:D :D :D

[Ricesnaps]

Already said (http://www.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/forums/showpost.php?p=149048&postcount=2) :o

Sorry, case of open mouth think later!

Out of interest, do you have success with the "why I'm better than the other disco's" part of your emails? You post comes across as is you use your competitors failings as a marketing tool (sorry if that's not how it was intended). Surely it would be better to only sell YOU and not sell you on the back of someone else?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Thanks for all your replies.

From the posts so far, it looks like nobody else includes a list of their most requested songs when they reply to queries received by email.

Maybe I've found my USP!

:D :D :D

But what happens if they don't like a lot of what is on your list?

[Ricesnaps]

But what happens if they don't like a lot of what is on your list?

Good point, snookered really as it seems Rob doesn't take pre-function requests....:rolleyes:

[Vectis]

You post comes across as is you use your competitors failings as a marketing tool (sorry if that's not how it was intended). Surely it would be better to only sell YOU and not sell you on the back of someone else?


No, I don't sell on competitor's failings, I sell on the professionalism of my offering, the fact that we have consistently good feedback, contracts, named contacts, PAT, PLI and our motto.

The closest I get to slagging off the competition is this. We sell 4 packages. Package 3 is called 'Platinum' and is basically giving the customer the run of the equipment pool, all-day availability etc. and is squarely targeted at weddings and corporates. Package 2 is called 'Premier' and is a nice medium-sized rig with our USPs added (stuff like video screens, recording of the event etc.). Package 1 is called 'Junior' and is described as "A no-frills show for smaller parties or those on a tight budget. A set-up with classic lighting effects suitable for up to around 70 guests which we find is actually comparable with the standard shows of many other Island DJs!
"

Don't ask about package 4....

[rob1963]

But what happens if they don't like a lot of what is on your list?

Then they can request anything else they want to.

My top 120 requests list is simply intended as a helpful guide.

I also send this list to clients with my request form. Hopefully they find it helpful to know the most requsted songs at weddings...especially if they are struggling to come up with some good songs to ask for.


Good point, snookered really as it seems Rob doesn't take pre-function requests....:rolleyes:

On the contrary, Ricesnaps.

All my clients receive a music request form with their booking confirmation, and I go out of my way on the night to play as many of their requests as possible.

In fact, I now encourage even MORE pre-function requests than before, as earlier this year I amended my request forms from being single-sided with space for 20 requests to double-sided with space for 50 requests, or 3 hours worth!

I can think of quite a few functions this year when they've given me 20 or 30 pre-function requests and I've played every single one!

[rob1963]

Don't ask about package 4....

So vectis.....

.....what is package 4?

:p

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

My top 120 requests list is simply intended as a helpful guide.



But how can it be when people's musical tastes are so varied?

If you had a bigger list which encompassed more, then I could understand it.

All I am saying is that the list could have the opposite effect and put people off too.

Can you post the list on here? I'd be interested to see what is on there.

[Corabar Steve]

Was there any reason why you completely ignored the rest of my reply and decided to throw your dummies out of the pram because of one (and by the responses it had, it seems a fairly valid one) comment about phone and email. I certainly asked and raised a lot more comments than simply the phone / email debate.

For example:





However, far from it being off topic, the use of telephone techniques is completely relevent to your original question as it is another very successful way to react to and better serve your potential client. Here's a way out idea, why not use both?



Generally I start mnost of my callbacks with "is this a good time to talk" and sometimes you have to follow that with "when would be a better time" or even, god forbid, I'll pop some details in an email with our contact details.

Anyway, to get back to the comments I original made, based on Rob's superb thread, what makes the perfect email reply, some good thoughts so far!
I must say I agree with Rob here. I can see nothing here.....

Until now, when receiving an email query, I've simply answered the question(s) raised, and asked them not to hesitate in contacting me if they have any further queries or wish to go ahead with a booking.

This week I've also started to attach a copy of my 120 most requested songs, to assist with their music selection.

My thinking is that offering something extra like assisting with their music selection, they are then more likely to come back & book ME...rather than one of the other discos they emailed a query to.

Do any of you do something like this?

...or does your reply to email queries just include a standard paragraph where you sell yourself & tell them all the things you can do for them?

Last week I actually had a ten fold increase in bookings, but that just happened to be a really good week...and I'm always looking to improve the way I do things.

Comments & suggestions please!

:)
....that indicates that Rob wants any info on Phone enquiries of sales techniques.

[Vectis]

So vectis.....

.....what is package 4?

:p

****s.

Edit: oops, looks like the swear filter doesn't like **** :o

Sorry Rob.

[rob1963]

Can you post the list on here? I'd be interested to see what is on there.

I just tried, Darren, but got the message:

"Your file of 23.5kb exceeds the forum's limit of 19.5kb for this file type"

:(

[rob1963]

OTHER FEATURES THAT WE INCLUDE

Top of the Range Peavey Disco Sound System for clear announcements and
music quality -TEAR DROP HANDLES INCLUDED:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D



:Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh:

[Ricesnaps]

No, I don't sell on competitor's failings, I sell on the professionalism of my offering, the fact that we have consistently good feedback, contracts, named contacts, PAT, PLI and our motto.

The closest I get to slagging off the competition is this. We sell 4 packages. Package 3 is called 'Platinum' and is basically giving the customer the run of the equipment pool, all-day availability etc. and is squarely targeted at weddings and corporates. Package 2 is called 'Premier' and is a nice medium-sized rig with our USPs added (stuff like video screens, recording of the event etc.). Package 1 is called 'Junior' and is described as "A no-frills show for smaller parties or those on a tight budget. A set-up with classic lighting effects suitable for up to around 70 guests which we find is actually comparable with the standard shows of many other Island DJs!
"

Don't ask about package 4....

Mmmm, yes, package 4...... we'll not even got there in this thread shall we!

By the way, something odd going on on your home page when I looked - boxes on left now covering text in middle

[Vectis]

Eek! Will look into that - thanks. Win2000 / IE6 / 1024x768 yes? ;)

[Ricesnaps]

Eek! Will look into that - thanks. Win2000 / IE6 / 1024x768 yes? ;)

As far as I know - I'm at work

[rob1963]

It looks fine this end.

[Vectis]

Ah but you're on WinXP with IE7 although the same 1024x768 res.

Just checking on a few variants here and it appears to be an IE6 problem with screens under 1120 wide. Bit of CSS tweaking needed.

Thanks for the heads-up!

[rob1963]

Ah but you're on WinXP with IE7 although the same 1024x768 res

Indeed I am! :D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I just tried, Darren, but got the message:

"Your file of 23.5kb exceeds the forum's limit of 19.5kb for this file type"

:(

Copy and paste then. :)

[Vectis]

But you didn't order a brochure!

[rob1963]

Copy and paste then. :)

Oh yes, I didn't think of that!

For some reason the cut & paste seems to have merged the 2 columns together, but you can still read it.

As already mentioned, it's just intended to help people by giving them an idea of the usual sort of stuff that tends to get requested.

Obviously they're under no obligation to choose ANY of the songs on the list...and a few don't!

I've also seen similar lists on quite a few mobile disco websites.



ROB JAMES ENTERTAINMENT TOP 120 REQUESTS – THIS MAY HELP WITH YOUR MUSIC SELECTION.

Abba – Dancing Queen Los Del Rio – Macarena
Abba – Mamma Mia Los Lobos – La Bamba
A-Ha – Take On Me Lou Bega – Mambo Number 5
Arrow – Hot Hot Hot MC Hammer – U Can’t Touch This
B 52’s – Love Shack Madonna – Vogue
Barry White – You’re The First, The Last, My Everything Martha & Vandellas – Dancing In The Street
Beatles – Twist & Shout Mavericks – Dance The Night Away
Bee Gees – Night Fever Medley & Warnes – I’ve Had The Time Of My Life
Bee Gees – Staying Alive Michael Jackson – Billie Jean
Belinda Carlisle – Heaven Is A Place On Earth M People – Moving On Up
Beyonce – Crazy In Love Monkees – I’m A Believer
Bill Haley – Rock Around The Clock Mud – Tiger Feet
Billy Ocean – Love Really Hurts Without You Neil Diamond – Sweet Caroline
Black Box – Ride On Time Nolans – I’m In The Mood For Dancing
Bluebells – Young At Heart Original – I Luv You Baby
Blues Brothers – Everybody needs Somebody Outkast – Hey Ya!
Bobby Brown – Two Can Play That Game Proclaimers – (I’m Gonna Be) 500 Miles
Britney Spears – Toxic Pussycat Dolls – Don’t Cha
Bryan Adams – Summer Of ’69 Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now
Candi Staton – Young Hearts Run Free Real Thing – You To Me Are Everything
Cher – Believe Ricky Martin – Living La Vida Loca
Chesney Hawkes – I Am The One & Only R Kelly – She’s Got That Vibe
Chic – Le Freak Robbie Williams – Angels
Christina Aguilera – Dirty Robbie Williams – Rock DJ
Christine Aguilera & Friends – Lady Marmalade Robin S – Show Me Love
Chubby Checker – Let’s Twist Again Rolling Stones – Brown Sugar
Commitments – Mustang Sally Rose Royce – Car Wash
Communards – Don’t Leave Me This Way Roy Orbison – Pretty Woman
Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Salt n Pepa – Push it
Dee-Lite – Groove Is In The Heart Scissor Sisters – I Don’t Feel Like Dancing
Dexy’s Midnight Runners – Come On Eileen S Club 7 – Reach
Diana Ross – Chain Reaction Shakira – Hips Don’t Lie
Dire Straits – Walk Of Life Shania Twain – Man I Feel Like A Woman
DJ Casper – Cha Cha Slide Shapeshifters – Lola’s Theme
Donna Summer – Hot Stuff Sister Sledge – We Are Family
Earth Wind & Fire – Boogie Wonderland Soft Cell – Tainted Love
Elvis Presley – Jailhouse Rock Status Quo – Rocking All Over The World
Eric Prydz – Call On Me Steeler’s Wheel – Stuck In The Middle
Eurythmics – Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves Stevie Wonder – Superstition
Foundations – Build Me Up Buttercup Sugababes – Push The Button
Four Seasons – December ’63 Take That & Lulu – Relight My Fire
Four Tops – Loco In Acapulco Tiffany – I Think We’re Alone Now
Frank Sinatra – New York, New York Tina Turner – The Best
Gap Band – Oops Upside Your Head Tom Jones – It’s Not Unusual
Girls Aloud – Jump Tom Jones – Sex Bomb
Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive Tommy James & Shondells – Mony Mony
Hot Chocolate – You Sexy Thing Tony Christie – Is This The Way To Amarillo
House Of Pain – Jump Around Toploader – Dancing In The Moonlight
Human League – Don’t You Want Me Trammps – Disco Inferno
Jacksons – Blame It On The Boogie Travolta & John – Grease Megamix
Jacksons – I Want You Back UB40 – Red Red Wine
Jamelia – Superstar Van Morrison – Brown Eyed Girl
Jeff Beck – Hi Ho Silver Lining Various Artists – Perfect Day
Jocelyn Brown – Somebody Else’s Guy Village People – YMCA
Katrina & The Waves – Walking On Sunshine Weather Girls – It’s Raining Men
KC & The Sunshine Band – Give It Up Westlife – Uptown Girl
Kenny Loggins – Footloose Wham – I’m Your Man
Kool & The Gang – Celebration Whigfield – Saturday Night
Kylie Minogue – Can’t Get You Out Of My Head Whitney Houston – I Wanna Dance With Somebody
Livin’ Joy – Dreamer Yazz – The Only Way Is Up

[rob1963]

But you didn't order a brochure!

:lol:

[Ricesnaps]

WOW - I want your record collection...


Christina Aguilera – Dirty Robbie Williams
Eric Prydz – Call On Me Steeler’s Wheel
Jacksons – I Want You Back UB40
Kylie Minogue – Can’t Get You Out Of My Head Whitney Houston

Then there are some which I have to say are quite wrong in your box:


Arrow – Hot Hot Hot MC Hammer
Beyonce – Crazy In Love Monkees
Britney Spears – Toxic Pussycat Dolls
Hot Chocolate – You Sexy Thing Tony Christie

But all is not lost:


Kool & The Gang – Celebration Whigfield

Good old Whigfield!

[rob1963]

WOW - I want your record collection...


Ricesnaps,

Send me £10,000 and it's all yours! :p :D

[Tom]

ROB JAMES ENTERTAINMENT TOP 120 REQUESTS – THIS MAY HELP WITH YOUR MUSIC SELECTION.



i do believe you with your top 120 requests but is it possible for anyone to make up a fake list and say its there top 120 and would you believe them???

[rob1963]

i do believe you with your top 120 requests but is it possible for anyone to make up a fake list and say its there top 120 and would you believe them???

Tom,

To be honest, it doesn't matter if mobiles DO make up their top requests list, as it's only intended to give people an idea of some of the songs they might want to request.

At the end of the day, clients can request anything they like...which might not include ANYTHING on the list!

Personally, I think it's better to say to clients "You can request anything you like, but these are our 120 most requested songs - which might give you some ideas" rather than just saying "You can request anything you like"

:)

[Dragonfly]

ROB JAMES ENTERTAINMENT TOP 120 REQUESTS – THIS MAY HELP WITH YOUR MUSIC SELECTION.




"ROB JAMES ONLY 120 TRACKS I OWN THIS MAY HELP YOUR MUSIC SELECTION."

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :beer1:

[Ricesnaps]

Ricesnaps,

Send me £10,000 and it's all yours! :p :D

Send me an MP3 of Hot Chocolate singing "You sexy think Toni Christie" and I might think about it

[rob1963]

"ROB JAMES ONLY 120 TRACKS I OWN THIS MAY HELP YOUR MUSIC SELECTION."

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :beer1:

:Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh:

[rob1963]

Send me an MP3 of Hot Chocolate singing "You sexy thing Toni Christie" and I might think about it

Not sure if I can manage that, but I might be able to get an MP3 with Tony Christie's WIFE singing it!!!

:D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I've also seen similar lists on quite a few mobile disco websites.


I've got similar on my website, after we compiled them from here a few years ago.

Your list seems fairly standard wedding disco fodder, so I'm not sure how that is offering an extra service?

[rob1963]

Your list seems fairly standard wedding disco fodder, so I'm not sure how that is offering an extra service?

Darren,

The extra service is attaching the top requests list to my replies to email queries...in the hope that people find it useful & are therefore more likely to come back & book me.

I don't know if it will work, but time will tell...and it certainly can't do any harm.

After all, nobody else has said they do this, and although some mobile discos have such a list on their website, it seems to me that the vast majority don't.

So...will you be playing many of the songs from my list on Friday? :p

[Tom]

Darren,

The extra service is attaching the top requests list to my replies to email queries...in the hope that people find it useful & are therefore more likely to come back & book me.

I don't know if it will work, but time will tell...and it certainly can't do any harm.

After all, nobody else has said they do this, and although some mobile discos have such a list on their website, the majority don't.

So...will you be playing many of the songs from my list on Friday? :p

it may take a while to write one up but it sure dont cost any extra just to add the playlist. i thinks it a good idea and might start logging songs played at disco's and make my own list.

[djsteve10]

I have all the usual details in my email response, their details included in the usual paragrath that i use, i also add my logo at the top of the email and then at the bottom i add the website address and the contact email address with a contact telephone number for me

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

After all, nobody else has said they do this, and although some mobile discos have such a list on their website, it seems to me that the vast majority don't.

So...will you be playing many of the songs from my list on Friday? :p

I'm thinking probably not, as they don't want any cheese! Soul, Motown, R&B, 60s soul, soca, 50s swing etc, but no cheese!

[djsteve10]

i am working on uploading all of my 30,000 track music selection database to my website then potential clients can log in and build up a request list online, they can also search to see if i have the songs that they want to hear

[rob1963]

I'm thinking probably not, as they don't want any cheese!

:jawdrop:

[djsteve10]

Can anybody see my profile picture as ive just selected it but i can see it :S

[rob1963]

i am working on uploading all of my 30,000 track music selection database to my website then potential clients can log in and build up a request list online, they can also search to see if i have the songs that they want to hear

Good idea, Steve.

My CD index is held on my computer in a program created for me in Access.

When someone asks, I can either email it to them or print out a hard copy & send it via snail mail.

:)

[djsteve10]

I am having it all built up so it will be like working on myspace or something you can login through the website and build up a request list ect

[TonyB]

Personally I don't think it such a good idea adding a 23.5kb playlist as an attachment to an email.

You will have to hope that the person you are emailing isn't on a dial up connection as they won't thank you for locking up their email for 20 mins while it downloads (there are still people that have dial up and not broadband).

If you are replying to a company, their email filters can either strip attachments or block emails with them.

Cautious people will not open attachments for fear it contains a virus.

Why not just post the list on your website with an optional download and put a link in the email?

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

If you are replying to a company, their email filters can either strip attachments or block emails with them.

Cautious people will not open attachments for fear it contains a virus.



Excellent points.

[rob1963]

Personally I don't think it such a good idea adding a 23.5kb playlist as an attachment to an email.

You will have to hope that the person you are emailing isn't on a dial up connection as they won't thank you for locking up their email for 20 mins while it downloads (there are still people that have dial up and not broadband).

If you are replying to a company, their email filters can either strip attachments or block emails with them.

Cautious people will not open attachments for fear it contains a virus.

Why not just post the list on your website with an optional download and put a link in the email?

Cheers Tony - Sounds like good advice.

Certainly something for me to think about!

Maybe I'll just OFFER to send the top requests list.

:)

[Penfold42]

Until now, when receiving an email query, I've simply answered the question(s) raised, and asked them not to hesitate in contacting me if they have any further queries or wish to go ahead with a booking.
Yep this is what i do.....:)


This week I've also started to attach a copy of my 120 most requested songs, to assist with their music selection.

My thinking is that offering something extra like assisting with their music selection, they are then more likely to come back & book ME...rather than one of the other discos they emailed a query to.

Do any of you do something like this?
No....but i like the idea....so i'm pinching it from you.......:D


...or does your reply to email queries just include a standard paragraph where you sell yourself & tell them all the things you can do for them?

Yep.....with a link to web page.

Basic e-mail back saying how much and when, where and how really, really clever i am.......oh - and i do spell check it..........:p :D :D

Then i follow it up with a phone call.............:quiet: :quiet: :quiet: :quiet: :quiet:

[PropellerHeadCase]

I understand where you are going with this idea, Rob, but I doubt that many people will even read said list unless they were thinking about the requests for the night. Given that your idea is to do this when they are enquiring about your service and availability I'd imagine that the information in that list will be useless to them until about 20 minutes after they've deleted your email ;) (whether they book you or not).

I find that a simple, "There's lots of useful information on my web-site (www.djalanduval.com) - if you have any questions please don't hesitate to drop me a line or call." seems to work as it lets them know about my site, if they didn't know already.

Remember how you thought my site had too much info, Rob? Better than too much info in an email, I'm thinking ;)

[Tom]

Personally I don't think it such a good idea adding a 23.5kb playlist as an attachment to an email.

You will have to hope that the person you are emailing isn't on a dial up connection as they won't thank you for locking up their email for 20 mins while it downloads (there are still people that have dial up and not broadband).

If you are replying to a company, their email filters can either strip attachments or block emails with them.

Cautious people will not open attachments for fear it contains a virus.

Why not just post the list on your website with an optional download and put a link in the email?


23.5kb is nothing. its the mb you want to worry about. lol. plus the fastest dial-up is 56kb a second anyway then it goes into broadband which is anything faster than 56kb

[rob1963]

Remember how you thought my site had too much info, Rob? Better than too much info in an email, I'm thinking ;)

I do remember thinking that & I still think that...

...but I also accept your point.

:)

[rob1963]

23.5kb is nothing. its the mb you want to worry about. lol. plus the fastest dial-up is 56kb a second anyway then it goes into broadband which is anything faster than 56kb

Good Point, Tom!

Maybe Tony was mixing up his mb & his kb!

[CRAZY K]

Cheers Tony - Sounds like good advice.

Certainly something for me to think about!

Maybe I'll just OFFER to send the top requests list.

:)

Why not put your list on your website and then link back to it in the the email---

example

go here ( web link) and see my most played songs

Maybe cut it down a bit so they dont get bored--

I have several categories---all on links --

Main Playlist

First Dance for Wedding

WEDDING and PARTY
DISCO MENU 1 NEWER TRACKS

WEDDING AND PARTY
DISCO MENU 2 OLD AND NEW

FLOOR FILLERS OLD AND NEW

Maybe nothing new---but if there liking the site, the price etc this might clinch it--

You could say you WELCOME music input from the clients--

I agree people wont always open attachments --- links are more user friendly.

CRAZY K

[TonyB]

Good Point, Tom!

Maybe Tony was mixing up his mb & his kb!

20 mins was a slight exaggeration but we do quickly forget how painfully slow dial is. Max may be 56kbs but rarely achievable.

[rob1963]

Why not put your list on your website and then link back to it in the the email---

example

go here ( web link) and see my most played songs

Maybe cut it down a bit so they dont get bored--

I have several categories---all on links --

Main Playlist

First Dance for Wedding

WEDDING and PARTY
DISCO MENU 1 NEWER TRACKS

WEDDING AND PARTY
DISCO MENU 2 OLD AND NEW

FLOOR FILLERS OLD AND NEW

Maybe nothing new---but if there liking the site, the price etc this might clinch it--

You could say you WELCOME music input from the clients--

I agree people wont always open attachments --- links are more user friendly.

CRAZY K

Hi Crazy,

That sounds like good advice...

...certainly better than the advice about buying speakers with teardrop handles!

:D :D :D

[Penfold42]

Fight - Fight.........:D :D :D :D :D :zip:

[rob1963]

20 mins was a slight exaggeration but we do quickly forget how painfully slow dial is. Max may be 56kbs but rarely achievable.

No problem, Tony.

For 20 minutes, we'll just read half a second!

:D

[PropellerHeadCase]

20 mins was a slight exaggeration but we do quickly forget how painfully slow dial is. Max may be 56kbs but rarely achievable.

Let's be clear

56kbps is in fact 56000 bits per second
Usual speeds would be no more than 10 kilobits but more often 7-8 kilobits.


23.5kb is 23500 bytes or 376000 bits


376000 bits at 7000 bits per second will take just shy of a minute (53.7 secs).


Are you prepared to unnecessarily delay your message to your client by that much?


Oh, and Rob, I'll be putting more info on my website, so be prepared to really hate it ;)

Why am I doing it?

For the same reason you're thinking of putting additional untargeted info on your emails - but people are expecting it on a web-site ;)

[rob1963]

376000 bits at 7000 bits per second will take just shy of a minute (53.7 secs).
Are you prepared to unnecessarily delay your message to your client by that much?

No, which is why after reading Tony's post, I've decided to OFFER the list in future, but not to actually send it unless they come back and ask for it.


Oh, and Rob, I'll be putting more info on my website, so be prepared to really hate it ;)

Why am I doing it?

For the same reason you're thinking of putting additional untargeted info on your emails - but people are expecting it on a web-site ;)

Al,

I'll keep an eye out for you in the Guinness book of records then, under the "World's biggest website" heading! :rolleyes:

We will have to continue to differ on how much info should be on a website.

As you know, I'm a strong believer in keeping it simple, so my site has nowhere NEAR as much info as yours. However, it seems to work for me, as whenever I ask clients why they booked me, at least 80% of them mention the fact that I answered their query quickly and that the website told them what they wanted to know.

If they want to know something which is not covered on the site, they only have to ask...and will usually get a reply within 6 hours, but in reality, most queries are just asking about availability, from which I conclude that most people find all the information they need on my site.

:)

[Vectis]

If they want to know something which is not covered on the site, they only have to ask...and will usually get a reply within 6 hours, but in reality, most queries are just asking about availability, from which I conclude that most people find all the information they need on my site.

Rob... have you thought about using Google Calendar to show real-time availability?

I've used it successfully for about 6 months and even have linked calendars for some of my corporate clients to make their own bookings directly (which don't show on the website version just 'free' & 'busy'.

It's a cinch to set up and integrate... have a look at mine here (http://www.vectisvibe.com/pages/diary.htm)

That said, this last week I've had a couple of problems with it showing 'busy' when I'm not but I'm assured that's because some updates are taking place. It is beta after all (but then so is gmail!)

[CRAZY K]

No, which is why after reading Tony's post, I've decided to OFFER the list in future, but not to actually send it unless they come back and ask for it.



Al,

I'll keep an eye out for you in the Guinness book of records then, under the "World's biggest website" heading! :rolleyes:

We will have to continue to differ on how much info should be on a website.

As you know, I'm a strong believer in keeping it simple, so my site has nowhere NEAR as much info as yours. However, it seems to work for me, as whenever I ask clients why they booked me, at least 80% of them mention the fact that I answered their query quickly and that the website told them what they wanted to know.

If they want to know something which is not covered on the site, they only have to ask...and will usually get a reply within 6 hours, but in reality, most queries are just asking about availability, from which I conclude that most people find all the information they need on my site.

:)

Rob, I got the impression you were trying to get MORE work--so the people who book you are fine--its the ones that dont book that you possibly want to appeal to MORE ?

Thats why changing things and trying new ideas is always healthy--GOOD LUCK WITH IT:D

I think showing the type of material you use is good---people can see your not a headbanger--and I dont suppose you want those kind of gigs--so you self select your clients which is good marketing.

Im presenting 3 Barn Dances tomorrow night I have never done before---thats living dangerously!

regards

CRAZY K

[rob1963]

Rob... have you thought about using Google Calendar to show real-time availability?

I've used it successfully for about 6 months and even have linked calendars for some of my corporate clients to make their own bookings directly (which don't show on the website version just 'free' & 'busy'.

It's a cinch to set up and integrate... have a look at mine here (http://www.vectisvibe.com/pages/diary.htm)



Hi Vectis,

I was actually offered an availability calendar by my web host. I had a play with it, and thought it looked great & also loved the fact that it was really easy to update...even for ME!

However, there was one major reason why I didn't go for it:

My two best friends also run disco businesses. They both pass on a fair bit of work to me, and of course I like to do the same with them. Therefore, when I get a query for a date I'm already booked for, my reply will include a recommendation for my two colleagues along with their contact details, and they have picked up some bookings this way.

However, if I had an availability calendar, potential clients would check it, see I was booked, and then just look elsewhere...so I would no longer have the chance to recommend them to my two friends.

That's why I personally don't use an availability calendar, but I do think that generally they are an excellent idea.

The only slight downside I can think of is that potential clients might check a few dates, and if they all come up as available, they might think "This disco seems to have lots of free dates...maybe they aren't very good"

[rob1963]

Rob, I got the impression you were trying to get MORE work--so the people who book you are fine--its the ones that dont book that you possibly want to appeal to MORE ?

Thats why changing things and trying new ideas is always healthy--GOOD LUCK WITH IT:D

I think showing the type of material you use is good---people can see your not a headbanger--and I dont suppose you want those kind of gigs--so you self select your clients which is good marketing.

Im presenting 3 Barn Dances tomorrow night I have never done before---thats living dangerously!

regards

CRAZY K


Cheers, Crazy!

:)

[Vectis]

So why not get them all to use it? You can set up a shared calendar on Google, and all of you have differing levels of access to it. Each of you could then put it on your respective sites showing availability for all 3?

Or you could show 2 or 3 seperate calendars - start with yours, then have a footer that says, essentially, 'if we're busy check out these guys' and link to theirs?

I have to say since implementing mine I've had a lot of folks call me and say 'I notice you're free on such and such a date can I make a booking' rather than 'Are you free on X'?. I don't think (but can't prove) that showing lots of 'Available' dates puts people off BUT I have to say that the number of folks I have to say 'no' to has gone down significantly.

I review my detailed webstats daily (as you know ;) ) and notice the occasional exit page = my diary page; folks come onto the site, browse around, look at the diary then leave. This all suggests it's having the desired effect.

Anyway I only made the suggestion because it seemed you were looking for 'the missing link' to round off your website and I thought this was it. With a bit of tinkering I'm sure you guys could come up with a workable system.

I use google over other calendars because a) it slips seamlessly into my site and b) I can get to it very quickly from any browser with my gmail password.

[rob1963]

So why not get them all to use it?

Because one of my friends takes virtually all his queries & bookings on the phone, mostly through contacts & repeat bookings. Although he DOES have a website, he only has it because a friend offered to do it for him free. To be honest, it looks toilet, but that doesn't matter, as he doesn't advertise or promote his website anywhere, so very few people see it.

My other friend DOES have a website, but I'm not sure I could rely on him to keep the calender up to date...as he has a very busy social life & I can just see him forgetting, which would obviously defeat the whole object.

I'm still on the fence with regards to the best way forward on the availability thing, so I think I'll carry on as I am for now, but I appreciate your suggestions.

:)

[Corabar Steve]

Personally I don't think it such a good idea adding a 23.5kb playlist as an attachment to an email.PDF maybe?


That column merge threw up some amusing choices didn't it?

Staying Alive Michael Jackson
Crazy In Love Monkees
Everybody needs Somebody Outkast
Two Can Play That Game Proclaimers
Toxic Pussycat Dolls
Summer Of ’69 Queen
Le Freak Robbie Williams
Dirty Robbie Williams
You Sexy Thing Tony Christie
Don’t You Want Me Trammps
Somebody Else’s Guy Village People
Walking On Sunshine Weather Girls
& my personal favourite....

Give It Up Westlife

[rob1963]

That column merge threw up some amusing choices didn't it?

Indeed it did, Steve!

:Laugh:

[Ricesnaps]

PDF maybe?


That column merge threw up some amusing choices didn't it?

& my personal favourite....

Have you been asleep for most of this post Steve?


http://www.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/forums/showpost.php?p=149155&postcount=38

[Corabar Steve]

No, you didn't separate them http://planetsmilies.net/vicious-smiley-1763.gif (http://planetsmilies.net)

[Ricesnaps]

No, you didn't separate them http://planetsmilies.net/vicious-smiley-1763.gif (http://planetsmilies.net)

Yes I did, I just added in an artist too - bonus points for style and thought I think :beer1:

[Corabar Steve]

Yes I did, I just added in an artist too - bonus points for style and thought I think :beer1:

For me maybe, you were just lazy.

Anyway, I used more than you did & it looked funnier without the second artist :ner:

[Ricesnaps]

For me maybe, you were just lazy.

Anyway, I used more than you did & it looked funnier without the second artist :ner:

Keep taking those little blue pills Steve and everything will be OK

[Corabar Steve]

If I keep taking the little blue pills, I won't be able to sit down!

[Ricesnaps]

If I keep taking the little blue pills, I won't be able to sit down!

Just don't drop them on the floor and let a 7 year old eat one :eek:

[Corabar Steve]

Who's been watching Corrie then?

[Penfold42]

Who's been watching Corrie then?

They were pink or red.................:quiet: :quiet: :quiet: :quiet:

[Corabar Steve]

I think the story might have had a bit more impact if Holby City hadn't done a very similar one about 3 - 4 weeks ago

[rob1963]

Ahhhh...but 3-4 weeks is a long time in soap land!

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Ahhhh...but 3-4 weeks is a long time in soap land!

Is that where you live then? :D

[Vectis]

My cousin lives in Port Sunlight... locally referred to as 'soap land' for obvious reasons. Didn't think Rob was that far north! :D

[Ricesnaps]

Who's been watching Corrie then?

I believe my TV is broken. It seems only to recieve Eastenders, Corrie, Emerdale and at some times of the year Big Brother. I've explained to my wife that buying a 52" LCD TV might solve the problem, but she doesn't think the one we've got's broken!

[rob1963]

I didn't think Rob was that far north! :D

Vectis,

I'm from pretty far north......

.....well, north of YOU anyway!

:D :D :D

[rob1963]

:ontopic:

[Vectis]

Vectis,

I'm from pretty far north......

.....well, north of YOU anyway!

:D :D :D

Well I'm from Cheshire... how 'bout you?

[Marc J]

On the availabilty checker (2 pages ago) topic, it was me who offered Rob the availabilty checker, which was one I threw together myself based on the DJ Intelligence one (form to pick a date ---> it's taken or available).

This is very very easy to use and can be used for a one rig or ten rig business....if you run ten rigs you only add a date as "not available" when the 10th booking is taken for that date - simple.

The problem here, as Rob mentioned, is that if (to use his case as an example) there are 3 of you, dates when all 3 of you are booked may be few and far between....and so most dates would come back "available" - which doesn't look good from a potential client POV ("mustn't be very good if they're always available").

Which is probably why such a system is better than, say, the Google calendar solution - with Google calendar the visitor can see instantly that there's a lot of "availabilty"....but with the form to check for one date they only get to know of one date at a time, and I can't imagine many bookings are flexible (birthdays / anniversaries are fixed, and who's gonna schedule their wedding around the DJ's availabilty :rolleyes: ) and so a yes / no for that date is all they need.

Anyway, if anyone's interested, here's one I made earlier: -

www.elitedj.co.uk/datecheck
checks for future date entry
short notice warning at 14 days (configurable)

admin : www.elitedj.co.uk/datecheck/admin (mdd / mdd)
checks for future entry date
alerts to double booking
other stuff (I forget, it was a while ago!).

This post wasn't meant to be so long.....:bang:

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Back on subject, I bumped into a lady today that had previously booked me for a function last year. She had called me again a few months after the function to book me again for her friends 40th birthday. I wasn't available at the time as I was busy so she reluctantly went elsewhere. She said that she emailed a number of other companies in the area and only one of them got back to her almost immediately like I did/do. She went on to say that the DJ wasn't that great for various reasons but I got the impression that she felt like the other companies couldn't be bothered.

So, working on that....I got my missus to email 3 random companies this morning to make an enquiry. As yet none of them have replied back.

It's the first time I have ever done something like this as to be honest other companies, competition or whatever you want to call it doesn't bother me..I look after number 1. I just wanted to test the water as it were following the conversation and also this topic.

[Tom]

if you know, what kind of questions were asked??? maby this could be a good idea for us dj's to see who's about and see the competition but have to agree not to call other dj's on this forum??? just an idea

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

So, working on that....I got my missus to email 3 random companies this morning to make an enquiry. As yet none of them have replied back.




I think what we have to remember is that DJing is still a part time occupation for probably 95% of people in the industry and people might not have time to reply in the first instance, after working their day job, relaxing and being with their families.

[Shaun]

I have to say...I've never checked out any of my competition. to be honest I have no clue what others locally are charging, or how they operate. As long as business is going well I don't really pay much attention to other DJ companies around me.

[Tom]

but would anyone be courious on what others are doing??? (cant spell that word)

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

but would anyone be courious on what others are doing??? (cant spell that word)

Not curious, but I make it my business to know what everyone else is doing and who works where and in what way! Call it market research if you like.

If I can improve what I do as a business by using someone elses idea and adapting it for my own use, then I will.

That is why these forums are so useful.

[Corabar Entertainment]

Going back to the 'availability checker' point.... has no-one else said "Sorry, we're fully booked on that date" when you weren't as a polite way of avoiding an enquiry you didn't want?

Having an availability checker would prevent you from using that excuse! :eek:

[rob1963]

Going back to the 'availability checker' point.... has no-one else said "Sorry, we're fully booked on that date" when you weren't as a polite way of avoiding an enquiry you didn't want?

Having an availability checker would prevent you from using that excuse! :eek:

Yes I have Angela...and you make a very good point!



She said that she emailed a number of other companies in the area and only one of them got back to her almost immediately like I did/do.

So, working on that....I got my missus to email 3 random companies this morning to make an enquiry. As yet none of them have replied back.


Hi Gary,

Very good points.

I usually reply to emails within 6 hours, and I know that's secured a number of bookings which I wouldn't have got if I'd taken longer to reply.

Earlier this year, I also sent queries to 3 local mobile discos, partly to see how quickly they came back to me & partly to see what they charged (as they didn't give any idea of prices on their websites).

Only two of the three replied...one after about 4 or 5 days & one after a week. In both cases, I found those timescales to be unacceptable.

Not only that, but one of them quoted £50 more than I charge & the other quoted £150 more than me!

This exercise made me feel very good about my own business, how quickly I respond to queries & what I charge...and that's without taking into account the service I give on the night itself!

[Vectis]

I did this a while back at the beginning of this year just to do a sense-check on pricing. I asked for a quote for a wedding at a posh venue this October - actually one of my own gigs I was already booked for - but under a false name.

Of the three (why is it always three?? :p ) companies I picked from random in the local YP, one responded the same day (admittedly a good few hours later) with "sorry - booked" - literally the words 'sorry hyphen booked' :eek:

Disco #2 took about 3 days to respond with a nicely worded apologetic paragraph basically saying the same thing but wishing me all the best, which was quite nice.

I'd forgotten about the whole thing when Disco #3 replied FIVE WEEKS LATER (yes, WEEKS) with a "Yes, we're free that day, please call XXX" and virtually nothing else.

Sounds like this isn't limited to my part of the world....

[rob1963]

I'd forgotten about the whole thing when Disco #3 replied FIVE WEEKS LATER (yes, WEEKS) with a "Yes, we're free that day, please call XXX" and virtually nothing else.

Vectis,

It might have taken 5 weeks, but at least you GOT a reply form disco #3...

...which is more than I did when I tried the exercise!

[Larry B Entertainment]

I try to reply the same day but have an automated response active that sends an email to the sender thanking them for their email and that i will reply as soon as possible, then they know i have got the email and will get back to them.

[Shakermaker Promotions]

Exactamundo! Same here mate but generally I am at my laptop from around 10am until 6pm so I answer everything almost immediately. It's funny how when they reply either by mail or phone, they always mention that they didn't expect such a quick response.

[Tom]

making the first impression always counts

[PropellerHeadCase]

Only problem with auto-responders is they are guaranteed to increase your spam levels :(