|
How does a funeral home/mortuary compete for business? Advertising is a very sensitive issue. We never broadcast that the decedent’s appearance is so much better at Spilsbury’s, or that we respond faster when asked to remove a body. We never inform the public that we guarantee the protective and respectful care of their loved ones or that we have an open door policy for the family to spend time with them, even though it may be after regular business hours. So, how do we get the word out? Is it location, price, advertising, billboards, connections at the hospital, nursing homes, home health agencies, police department, etc.? The answer is, “None of the above!” Our message, at Spilsbury’s is shouted loud and clear, by word of mouth, every time we serve a family. It was brought to my attention that there are two markets to which modern-day funeral directors cater. They are the seniors, who are inclined to select the traditional firm that has served the family for generations, and the baby boomers, of which I am one, who recognize value and are willing to pay the price. But, at the same time, they consider the lower priced firm, although they have never been involved in the funeral arrangement process, and truly don’t understand the difference a quality funeral home offers. Being a baby boomer AND a funeral director, I have the fortune to serve both sectors. The seniors, through the years, have gained experience and wisdom. They have felt the heartache and pain as well as the insight, comfort, and peace that come from doing business with firms of longevity, reputation, and trust. They have learned that discounts are great on household appliances, but don’t represent the best option when shopping for personal services, such as a doctor, lawyer, hairdresser, auto mechanic, or funeral director, to name a few. As a baby boomer, I must agree that when it comes to heart surgery, safety equipment for rappelling, or choosing a funeral director, experience and wisdom are to take top priority. I am going to put my trust in my elders and follow their advice. I have personally been concerned with the real intentions of some with whom I do business. When in doubt, I consider the options. Bargains are great, but if they don’t live up to the purpose for which they were intended, then they are no longer bargains. When it comes to personal services, I choose the very best! I have come to truly appreciate a real live voice on the other end of the phone, rather than voice mail menus or answering services. I like old fashioned homemade French fries and golden oldies, but I do not miss carbon paper or typewriters. Life is a mixture of the old and the new. Nothing can take the place of lemonade, a swing in the park, or other pleasant memories. Sometimes, I can just close my eyes and remember back on the good ole days. Those days are gone, but still are very much alive in my memory. Little League Baseball, the Junior Pentathlon, the first deer hunt How about your first car, first date, first girlfriend/boyfriend? Even back then, the experience and wisdom of our elders, our loving parents, played an important role pertaining to our best welfare and adventure. |
