This has been an interesting thread.
I started my printing/media business nearly 15 yers ago and about 4 years ago expanded into signage. It has been very good and people are very happy with our quality of work. We've learned from mistakes and always made it right with customers. It has taken a lot of learning but the employees have all done a great job educating themselves and practices on this.
What I have learned most I think is that I am here to provide solutions to the customers marketing needs. No matter if that sends them somewhere else, they know they can trust me to help them get the best work for their money.
It sounds like many problems in the sign industry is people don't realize that. We are here to provide solutions.
Recently, I had been accused by another printer/sign guy of taking his customers. I talked to him about his problems and I didn't try and argue because I know that never helps.
The truth is I don't go after them at all. They come to me because the work is usually lousy from the other guy or he's a big jerk to them. Most of the time he doesn't even realize that what he says actually comes off sounding either racist or just egotistical.
I've tried to explain that to him nicely. He wants me to buy him out, but there really is nothing he has that I need, not even clients. I'm already very busy and thank God for that.
The best way to keep clients is to treat them nicely and deliver on your promises. If you tell them two weeks and you find out that you cannot have it by then, be sure to communicate clearly, giving them a very logical explanation. Most of the time customers are very understanding. What they don't understand is when you tell them something and then don't follow through or don't communicate.