Consumers:
So, what's the idea?
It's pretty simple really... assume you have a need for some product or service.Typically, you'd start by SEARCHING for a provider.
Maybe you'd use a phonebook, maybe you'd use the internet, maybe you'd ask around.
Regardless, YOU are the one putting in the effort.
Meanwhile, while you are doing all that searching, there are probably lots of providers who are anxious to be of service, and a few of them are probably JUST PERFECT.
Unfortunately, you don't know who they are and they don't know who you are.
We set out to solve that problem.
Here's how:
- You pick a category and post what you are looking for.
- We forward your posting to all the providers who have signed up to get posts from your zip code.
- We don't give them your email address or phone number, so they can't spam you.
- If they are interested in competing for your business, they reply via our system.
- We forward the reply to you, via email.
- You can then initiate contact with them via email or phone if you'd like to work with them.
- Once you've selected a provider, or you have enough replies so that you are sure you don't need more, you can deactivate your posting.
- Once you deactivate your posting, providers can no longer reply.
Is this just for contractors and things like that?
In a word, no.It turns out that there are also a lot of dentists, doctors, hair stylists, etc looking to build their business. If you are new to an area, or just don't like your current providers, shoot out a note and see who responds. You really can't lose.
How much does this cost?
It's free to post.It's also free to receive posts.
What are these other categories, like "rants" and "nightlife"?
Once we had this whole thing built, we realized it could be used for all sorts of things. Got a complaint about your local government - post to Rants. Maybe your mayor is subscribed. If not the mayor, your local reporters certainly are.Looking for something to do Friday night? - subscribe to Nightlife for the zipcodes near your house or work, so that local bars can fill you in on what they've got going.
Looking to play a little pickup basketball? - subscribe to Sports & Games for the zipcodes near your house to get connected to folks organizing teams or games.
Providers:
So, what's the idea?
You spend money to advertise in the yellow pages... often more than one.You spend money to advertise in the newspaper.
You spend money to advertise via direct mail, cable tv, radio.
99% of the people that see and hear your ads aren't even looking for your service.
If you think about it, that's actually completely CRAZY.
Even crazier is that consumers end up picking providers based on who has a most eye catching advertising rather than the best offering.
We don't think things should work that way.
When a consumer requests a service via EverythingTree, we forward it to ALL the providers who want it for FREE.
If you feel you are a good fit for the consumer, write them back and tell them why.
If you respond quickly, with a compelling case, you'll likely get the business.
Big or small.. we help the BEST provider win.
Anything else?
Consumers don't tend to read reply #17, so respond quickly if you can.Many field based providers find it beneficial to subscribe to everythingtree postings using a .me or .mac email address (nearly instant delivery) and then respond right from the field via their iphone.
For office based providers, a gmail account always open in the background is a great way to go... again, nearly instant delivery.
If you have good reviews on yelp, citysearch, etc, be sure to include them in your replies. (It'll be obvious how to do that when you reply for the first time.)
Getting started
From our home page select the category that describes your business.Once on the category page, click "sign up to receive these messages via email".
Select the zip codes you wish to service and you will be good to go.
Couldn't be easier!.. and if you DO think of a way to make it easier, please let us know here.
