A client asked me to quote a job with a weird 'value add' clause

I had a potential client in Phoenix send over a project scope last month that looked pretty standard, a kitchen remodel. But buried in the email was a line asking for a quote that included a 'value add', like a free upgrade or extra service, to show I was invested. My first thought was to just ignore it and quote the work as drawn. Instead, I got curious and added a line item for a free under-cabinet lighting layout and plan, which took me about an hour to draft. I sent it over, fully expecting them to haggle on price. They called back the same day, said no one else had even acknowledged that request, and gave me the job on the spot. It taught me that sometimes the small, thoughtful extras that cost you very little time can be the real differentiator. Has anyone else found a simple 'yes' to an odd request turned into a solid win?

2 comments

2 Comments

singh.uma15h ago

Totally get that. My first thought would have been to roll my eyes hard. Like, another freebie request. But that was smart, just adding a small plan. Shows you're paying attention. I once had a guy ask if I could source a weirdly specific faucet. Took me one extra email. He said it proved I listened. Felt silly, but it worked. Guess we have to play the game sometimes.

ericp6710h ago

Sometimes @singh.uma, I wonder if we're overthinking these tiny client tests.