Woulda Coulda Shoulda

I Look Forward to Making the Landmark Sign for the Business That Replaces Yours

A fed-up sign pro has a savage retort for a client from hell.

Published

2 years ago

September 28, 2022

Signs of the Times Staff Signs of the Times October 2022 Issue

Things you wanted to say to frustrating clients, but didn’t.

“I look forward to making a landmark sign for the business that replaces yours next year.”

To the customer who: 1. Ordered two banners, but only decided to pay for one. 2. Called the final design draft of the landmark sign that he micromanaged the design details of “stupid-looking,” then canceled his order altogether. 3. Demanded rush service to update an aging sign, in adverse weather conditions, during the busiest time of the season — twice in one week. 4. Lied to multiple employees about not receiving a bill multiple times, then took over eight weeks to finally pay said bill.

Woulda Coulda Shouldas are collected from the Signs of the Times Brain Squad and shared anonymously.

What’s the Brain Squad?

If you’re the owner or top manager of a signage and graphics company in the US or Canada, you’re invited to join the Signs of the Times Brain Squad. By taking one five-minute survey each month, you will receive access to some of the industry’s freshest data on sales — including your fellow members’ comments on what’s selling and what isn’t — and can make your voice heard on key issues affecting the sign industry. Sound good? Sign up here.

Signs of the Times Staff

Signs of the Times has been the world leader in sign information since 1906. Contact Signs of the Times' editors at editor@signsofthetimes.com.

click to Comment(Comment)

Up Next

Not Even the Sign Gods Could Complete This Project on Time

Don't Miss

If You Don’t Like My Prices, Here’s a Box of Crayons

Introducing the Sign Industry Podcast

The Sign Industry Podcast is a platform for every sign person out there — from the old-timers who bent neon and hand-lettered boats to those venturing into new technologies — we want to get their stories out for everyone to hear. Come join us and listen to stories, learn tricks or techniques, and get insights of what’s to come. We are the world’s second oldest profession. The folks who started the world’s oldest profession needed a sign.