Thoughts on free product support..

Five years ago I resigned from my “real world” job. I was not happy with where that organization was going, so I made a change. I’m not here to complain about what they did or are doing, it’s a private business and it’s their choice how to run it. I didn’t know exactly where life would lead me, but I had many offers, probably too many. I looked at lots of opportunities, and knowing Ag would probably have a down cycle, some of those opportunities were outside of agriculture. I certainly could have made more money outside of the Ag industry, but I liked being around AgTech and farm equipment, so I stuck it out.

Fast forward a few years and it becomes very clear, Ag is in a down cycle. Nobody knows where the bottom is, but we all know we need to make more money. What we all made in the good times only lasts so long. Let’s get to the point here, I’m done providing free support. I have helped with machinery decisions, WiFi networks, camera systems, GPS, RTK, AutoTrac, precision Ag, drones and so on. I have tried justifying this free support with the expectation of some loyalty (within reason) for equipment purchases, but that clearly goes out the window in tough times. I also have competition that takes big risks for very small rewards, I can’t do that. And that’s okay, I know I can’t help with everything.

I have also tried justifying free support, with networking, keeping up to date, product knowledge, etc etc, but the fact is that does not pay bills.

Bottom line: it is not fair to me, in financial terms, if you make money or save money off my advice.

It doesn’t matter the topic or acronym, if it’s in agriculture or electronics and I can provide knowledge and experience, I need to be charging for my time. I know that is a broad statement and I’m open to feedback here.

I am still willing to help in many situations:

• If you have purchased anything from / consigned anything with me in the last 18 months   (18 months because that covers seasonal items purchased off-season)
• Industry contacts that just need quick information   (a huge thank you to those who still help me, but don’t necessarily have to, I owe you all)
• Friends and family   (obviously)
• Local neighbors
• Those I do business with or purchase things from
• Those who have helped me on anything and everything

 

This all being said, I am open to paid consulting on your idea, project, business, investment, etc. on any of the aforementioned topics.

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Thanks,
Aaron Bobeck
@AaronBobeck / firstintial.lastname@gmail.com

 

See everything I have for sale on the NewAgTalk Classifieds and on AgrisolEquipment.com