Mike’s Seafood and Painting

I frequently see contractors advertise that they “do it all”. When I see such ads, all kinds of things go through my head. And most of them aren’t fit to write in a contractor oriented blog such as this.

I think it is great to be multi-talented. I think I’m a good writer, a decent chef, and I can add up some fairly large numbers. I can do basic electrical work, some plumbing, and I can tear down fences. I can do a lot of other things as well, but I’m starting to get tired of boasting and really need to get on to my point.

Despite the widespread and impressive array of talents I possess, I would hardly claim that I “do it all”. The primary reason is that it isn’t true. Another reason is that just because I do something doesn’t mean I do it well. And I really doubt that anyone who claims he can “do it all” does it all well.

The guys who advertise such nonsense usually have an assortment of services plastered on the cardboard sign taped to the side of their station wagon. Often, the heat from the sun makes the crayon lettering melt and run down the side of their car. I find this somewhat amusing, as it clearly shows that there is one thing they can’t do—make a decent sign.

The conglomeration of services these business tycoons offer is sometimes absurd. Most offer the gamut of home services—painting, trash hauling, landscaping, roofing, tile work, etc. But my favorite is Mike, who runs a combination seafood delivery service and interior painting company. (He tried exteriors, but the fish kept getting a little stinky by the end of the day.)

It is much better to do one thing well, than a dozen things decently. Sometimes, even when you do multiple things well, you can send the wrong message to customers. For example, Mike’s customers are curious about that cooler he keeps in the corner everyday. They suspect it’s his beer.

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