You Make the Call-Situation 3

question 96

Essay

You Make the Call-Situation 3
Paul Bowlin owns and operates a tree removal, pruning, and spraying business in a large metropolitan area with a population of approximately 200,000. The business started in 1975 and has grown to the point where Bowlin uses one and sometimes two crews, with four or five employees on each crew. Pricing has always been an important tool in gaining business, but Bowlin realizes that there are ways to entice customers other than quoting the lowest price. For example, he provides careful cleanup of branches and leaves, takes out stumps below ground level, and waits until a customer is completely satisfied before taking payment. At the same time, he realizes his bids for tree removal jobs must cover his costs. In this industry, Bowlin faces intense price competition from operators with more sophisticated wood-processing equipment, such as chip grinders. Therefore, he is always open to suggestions about pricing strategy.

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Definitions:

Avoidant Personality Disorder

Avoidant personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and extreme sensitivity to negative evaluation.

Fear of Rejection

A common psychological condition where individuals experience intense apprehension or anxiety about being refused, dismissed, or deemed unworthy by others.

Criticism

The act of expressing disapproval and noting the problems or faults in something or someone.

Illness Anxiety Disorder

A psychological disorder characterized by excessive concern about having a serious illness, despite medical tests showing no evidence of such illness.