[Asterisk-biz] A question about ethics, I suppose

[Paul]

Alan Smith wrote:

>Hello,
>
>I'm wondering if some people on the list can give their opinion on a
>business-related matter I'm facing.
>
>We were previously approached by someone wanting to help us fix up
>their Asterisk installation. Subsequently, we did a couple more jobs
>for them, all the while somewhat undercharging them for the work --
>often times throwing in an hour or so worth of time free on top of
>what was agreed. The client would also call me once in a while, and I
>accommodated by answering their mostly technical and Asterisk-related
>questions, sometimes calling them back on my personal cell phone. I
>suppose I subscribe to the "above and beyond the call of duty" line of
>thinking..
>
>However, on the last occasion, the job required a couple of additional
>hours above what I had quoted the client for. While performing the
>work, I informed the client of this matter, and he was agreeable when
>I said I would have to charge him extra. I thought this was
>reasonable, and explained to him about the "freebies" I had given
>prior, and that in the long run things evened out.
>
>It has been about two months since I sent that invoice. I have a
>feeling this client may end up not paying me at all. But what bothers
>me is the same client is currently posting on the Asterisk Users list
>asking for consultants to work on another job.
>
>So the question is this: would it be ethical to reply to the client's
>posting, and use this public forum to warn others of the risk of doing
>business with the client? Would it be construed as slander? I'm just
>concerned that he might rip other people off, and would just like to
>warn others.
>
>Thanks for taking some time to read my email.
>  
>
You can always post a simple description of what transpired without 
naming him as a warning to others. That will show that you are trying to 
protect your peers and not trying to pressure him over a debt. Describe 
the invoices(rate and total amount), time between invoices and payment 
history. That helps to show it is not a dispute over quality of 
services. People who pay and then call you back for more work generally 
are showing they think you are worth the price.

You might be perfectly right in naming him but what if he files a 
lawsuit over that? You will spend time and money getting the frivilous 
lawsuit dismissed and even get a judgement against him. If you can't 
collect for the last invoice, why add to the total uncollectible amount?