young people problems

[Christian_S]

Hey guys this is my problem. Lately I feel like ive been losing alot of jobs for being "young". Im 20 years old but im always told i don't look a day over 16. When i show up to customers houses they're like "Oh hi, Christian?? I expected someone a little.. you know older.." I feel like they might think since im young im probably more focused on doing things most kids my age do. But anyways i was wondering if it would be a good idea to change my business name to something like "College Boy lawn service" that way people already expect someone young to show up?

[Sprinkler Buddy]

Lawn care business tips

lol I wouldn't change your name. Nothing wrong with being young, tell them not to judge you or your work before seeing it. Tell them: "I have been blessed with a youthful look is all." Sell yourself, that's 50% of the work.

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[Mayor of Mow Town]

Embrace your youth. It's got nothing to do with how successful you can be.

If it were me, I'd have a prepared come-back statement when they comment about your age, to turn it into a positive and provide some proof that other people think it's a good thing (and have some fun with it too):

CLIENT: I expected someone a little older...

YOU: What? I'm 55. I just take good care of myself. Actually, it makes me faster than some of the old guys ....blah blah.... I've got X other clients, and they like the fact they're supporting a young local guy ....blah blah....


Cheesy, I know. But the old folks like that stuff


By the way, when I was in my twenties I got offered a child's meal while on a flight. You have to be 12 to be considered a child on a flight!

[LawnBoy0311]

Don't change your name. Keep it the same and show them your not the "young guy". I get the same thing.

I'm 28, but I look about 18. I still get carded for beer and tobacco. The last customer I met with, she called me for a quote. I called her back and met with her....the first thing she said was "You served in the Marine Corps? Did you really do all 4 years? You don't look old enough to do all 4 years and now be out working on your own!" I laughed and said yes, I did. I told her I got out in 2007 after 3 tours, work full time and do this on the side for enjoyment.

She was silent after that.

At your age, it will only go so far. I could see a 15 year old showing up and getting "shoo'd away", but not you. Build up some confidence. If anyone questions your age, just say you get that all the time. Then make a comment like "after a few years in business....". Confidence!

As a side story....2 years ago I was at a bar with my wife and parents. We had all ordered drinks, and of course my wife and I get carded. We show the bartender our ID's and she looks at me saying "Wow, I had you peg'd as under age" in a real fake snotty voice. I told her my young appearance is from a fine line of moisturizing creams I use every night. My wife couldn't stop laughing, but the bartender didn't find it funny at all.

[dpld]

i would not worry about it and i would just focus on proving to them that they made the right call in contacting you.

just always remember that every day you are getting older and one day real soon you will be at the point where someone your age now will think you are some old dude.

as stated above, embrace your youth because it won't last for much longer and you will be longing for those days to return.


when i was 21 years old i used to get offended when someone wanted to see ID when i bought booze or cigarettes and now even though i never get asked no more probably because i look old i would take it as a compliment and welcome it.

i used to deal with the same thing when i started out and the only thing i can say is just focus on making them a believer and removing any doubts they may have and the rest will take care of itself.

good luck and happy youth to you.

[dougcaskey]

Don't sweat it .....

I'm 51 and would love to be 20 again....Treat customers right and be proud of the work you do for them...ENJOY being young

[Steve]

What are you wearing when you show up for bids or service properties?

Are you wearing something that makes you look younger or are you wearing a uniform?

You can do a lot to change the maturity level you project by what you wear.

[Greg'slawnandlandscape]

i tell you what i am 16 and when i have customers that ask about my experience when i show up i use the chance to show of my business and equipment. like i share my knowledge with them or explain how i have businness insurance and why they should go with me. it really impresses them because of the drive i have to make money

[Steve]

r explain how i have businness insurance and why they should go with me

Was it at all difficult to get liability insurance for your business at 16? Any tips to other teens trying to do that?

[BelleCityLawn1]

Steve,

I became fully insured last year at the age of 17. Surprisingly there were no problems, however, lots of people said it couldn't be done. So when I showed them my paperwork (they were potential customers who asked) they were shocked. Do not let age influence the thought that you can not do anything. I met last week with a guy for taking care of a whole subdivision of about 100 houses. He asked how old I was. I simply replied by saying I am 18 and he said "your sure you can handle this project?" so I told him I wouldn't be giving an estimate for it if I couldn't. Just be honest with people and do amazing work!

Thanks,
Tim Oezer
Belle City Lawn Care, LLC