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Should I Be Held Accountable

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by dmiles

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Aco-worker intrusted me to work on a laptop to setup the modem that she was having a problem with configuring
She broght the laptop an AMS Travel Pro
I hooked the computer up to power and hit the power switch,and I discovered their was no display,tried using the Fn key to no avail,then hooked a monitor to it and still no video.
Upon bringing this to her attention,her comment was it was working,her estimated time of last use was six months to one year ago.
Now I am getting the impression that she thinks I broke the computer,she has inquired around the office,did they see what I did to it.
Apperently their was another problem with the computer and I am speculating that she knew this,and now wants me to be held accountable for the computer,so I would like to get opinions should I be held accountable for the computer and if so why?

67 replies

by timthetoolman

Hi soulrider,

I had another thought on this. It sounds like a hardware problem, so perhaps you could agree with her to have it taken to a repair shop and if it turns out to be a true hardware problem, then she would pay for the repairs.

Afterall, you cant cause a hardware problem short of dropping it!?!?

Besides if it turns out to be a faulty part that you couldn't possibly have damaged, then she'll be eating humble pie...

I understand your concerns over her behaviour in this. She sounds like a bitch - imagine asking for your uppaid help and then badmouthing you around the office when you report to her it wasn't working. Geez!

She's not a friend I'd want to have!

Cheers,
Tim.

by dmiles

Hi Tim
Thanks for the comments and support that you have been giving in this discussion and I have come to a conclusion that it is not something that I am going to take responsibility for.
I did suggest to her that she take it in to have a technician look at it,and that I would not even think of opening the case to check it out,so I am waiting on a reply as to when she will pick this machine up.
This discussion has been very informative and I have gathered quite a bit of info on how being a helpful person can sometimes create situaions as this.
I will take what I have gathered and use it in the future when dealing with individuals and their equipment
Thanks Again
soulrider

by dmiles

I would just like to share with everyone that has participated in this discussion and to give you an update
I still have the computer in my posession,and was approached by the owner about selling the system as is with no video,but the shocking confession of sort was that now she will go back and question the last person that was installing the modem to inquire what they had done.
Sounds like a fish story ah!So this saga is getting to much like a soap opera and I think I am getting out before the tide turns back in,so this is to say again thanks to all who had input and I am grateful for the info,I now will have a better idea as how to handle these types of jobs and to do something that I did not want and that is to be more discreet aboutwho I offer my services to
Thanks Fellas

by fluxit

The notebook computer is a carcass when it comes to you. A carcass in maintenance terms is a repairable component that is deemed broken or in need of repair.

You willfully received the carcass and are responsible for its reasonable care while inyour possession. This is re-enforced if there is a monetary exchange. Therefore, you should conduct a cursory inspection of its material condition in front of the owner. Reasonable care means that you took precautions so it was not stolen, subject to trama (dropped, water damaged, spills etc...), or lost. Many people post signs that are exculpatory stating they are not responsible when they really are.

It is reasonable that you induct a carcass to inspect it. You received it as is. Discovery showed that it was not working and you advised the owner of this. Then the owner makes a decision to repair it.

The question posed is whether of not you caused a fault. The age and material condition of the carcass would be examined. A determination would be made if there appeared to be trama to the case during your inspection.

If there is no trama and you simply powered the carcass and connected the ordinary equipment there is no claim. It is a piece of equipment, things fail. It is old and not used much. The client was seeking your expertise and demonstrated confidence in your abilities.

I think the case is closed.

For the individual spouting off in the office. The next time the person remarks on this issue you need to bring it to a close. You'll need to draw upon your people skills. Perhaps the best way is to use a little diplomacy that puts you in a positive light and puts them on notice. I could help you with something if I knew exactly what was being said.

by dmiles

This is what disturbs me about friends or co-workers seeking you out when they themselves donot wish to pay for authorize service cost and yet they expect for you to take full responsibilty of their equipment.
It is like they donot want to pay for services but have expectation of getting full service for free,they apply the accounability as though they are paying you.
So,where is their thinking that they have no accountability or responsibility to having the machine looked at by a friend or co-worker.

by tomsal

..its a matter of integrity and ethics. You should feel responsible for the system, if you truly damage it and if you don't mention any disclaimer to the user beforehand - it may not be ethical of someone getting a freebie to complain but it is certainly logical and their "right" to. Remember the system is put in your hands because you are the IT professional, not the one handing you the dead (or dying) system.

Trust me, I feel what you are saying - I've gotten "uptight" about that one a fewtimes in the past. Now, even though it may make some think I'm "anal" - to even have friends sign form contracts - I've learned enough to know that having things in writing is so incredibly important its not even funny.

So using what you said I say it like this (even to my friends outside of work) "Sure I'll fix your system for no charge, but you'll need to sign a standard disclaimer form and you'll be responsible for all material costs as needed."

You do that in work to cover your back from the higher ups and you do that outside of work in case you need ammo for court (thank god that has NEVER happened to me yet..everyone is pretty grateful that you save them money in fact. Especially the "AOL types" - who know nothing except how tochat and send email and they think AOL *IS* the Internet.).

by lordinfidel

I will have to say that a little dimplomacy will have to be issued here.

I would confront the person and explain to them *again* what my efforts were. Apologize for not being able to fix it and offer a place for them to take it to have it repaired (at their cost not yours).

If there is another tech at your company, get their opinion on the system.

But if they nor you have turned it on within the last 6 months, then the fault is neither theirs nor yours. If they told you before hand that they have not turned it on in 6 months then they have no basis for a claim and need to calm down.

I would bring that point up to them. That s**t happens, and since it has been not been turned on for several months, they nor you had no way of knowing whether or not it worked.

(Question- Does the power even come on or is it that the screen just does not activate., could be the wiring harness is bad. And *why* have they not used it in 6 months?)

Just my thoughts.

by pad1

Bosses (though sometimes we do doubt this) are human, too. Put yourself in his or her place -- if someone presents a problem, the situation is much more livable and doable if a solution to the problem also is presented.

In my experiences working as a manager and an employee, a positive and professional manner works best. Difficulties and problems shouldn't be avoided or ignored, but solved.

I have observed that people who constantly complain or are continually angry (or both) are not taken seriously by others in the workplace. Use negative emotions (anger, complaining)sparingly-only where they will have an predicted, useful impact.

Database Dog

by mdchrzanowski

When working on personal machines I find it best to start the unit prior to the customer leaving. At least that way any significant problems will be evident (such as no video, start-up issues, sound etc.) If system has been inactive for 6 monthjs toa years it is no telling how much banging around it may have taken.

by maxwell edison

Is this coworker a person who has (or could have) some affect on your job, your pay, your career, etc? Or is she someone who doesn't matter in that regard?

Maxwell

by radiic

comment. And I wouldnt go there if i were you. You just have to remember that IT is a customer service oriented business. With out all those PIA users and ID10T users we wouldnt have a thing to do. So everyone of them is important in creating your overall image in the company. People in the company are more likely to blow off a bad comment about you, if you have proven your worth over and over. Also you might want to re-think your policy about helping co-workers with personal equipment. I try to avoid that like the plague.

Good Luck...and I think lesson learned right>?

Rad

by tomsal

After reading a few of the posts on this issue I think this is being way overanalyzed. Its a simple case to solve if you ask me.

But first, to answer the person who said you can't damage hardware short of dropping it - WRONG! You can shock and totally kill the entire motherboard DEAD with nothing more than a simple static charged touch on a mouse port.

I know, because it happened TWICE in my history of tech support - both were by users switching out hardware (one woman wanted to use a certain keyboard and another was impatient for a mouse, so she bought her own and plugged it in). They never bothered to think about static electricity so when they touched the port BAM! lights out. DOA.

Anyway now to the case at hand:

Yes I believe you are 100% responsible. Why?

A) I'm assuming you are the IT person in your company, or at least part of the IT department. Right off the bat, you are the educated and experienced computer technician and you should "know better" than to not have the user boot up the machine in front of you and verify that its working BEFORE you claimed possession of it.

B) You didn't document anything.

This is what I do in those situations and it's been working great for over 5 years now:

1) There is a standard form that the user/employee must sign. This form follows an inspection of the system with the user as witness. By signing the form the user confirms that they saw the EXACT condition the machine was in BEFORE I took possession of it.

2) The second part of that "form contract" states that I am responsible to deliver the machine in at least the SAME state and condition as it was given to me. Meaning that in the off chance I can't repair the machine I must return it in at least the same working condition I received it in.

And that's how you prevent incidents as you described from happening.

Good luck.

by dlswingle

to work on co-workers personal computers? Is this really part of your job? Is this a service you are offering to ANYONE who works in your company? If so, I think that is really generous of both you and your company. I think if I was your superviser, however, I would try to find something more for you to do than to work on co-worker's home or laptop PC's. If this IS part of your company's policy, you are both right and wise to have them sign a form and to have them stand by while you boot it up as a precaution against someone taking advantage of your generosity.

by tomsal

I wish I had time to do such things ON the clock. No I don't, with only 2 exceptions I can think in about 6 years - and that was the CEO's son's PC.

You assumed that I meant strictly within the confines of work, I meant I have people sign that form contract even if I work on the system as a favor at my own house. Just because you are outside of work is no reason to let your best interests go down the tube (protecting yourself from liability *IS* your best interest in this case) AND lastly you have a point to some extent...why I have in the past (and probably would in the future too) work OFF the clock on someone's personal system is just how I am I guess. But I'm not dumb about it either, if I totally don't want to under take a time consumer PERSONAL repair request I'll tell them in a straight, but polite manner I simply don't have the time. I always offer advice though if I can't always fix it myself due to time constraints on my lack of desire to stay an hour or two after work. BTW, to date I never stayed longer than 30 minutes after my "scheduled" leave time - because I do repairs that take time in pieces...a little each day. Again the people who need help with their systems here are not very computer literate and are very patient that you are taking care of it for no charge (except of course they buy needed software/hardware).

But heck no, don't think I'm not busy....in fact, want some of my workload? lol..

by jklein

Its a complex piece of equipment and it failed, what a surprise! What kind of place do you people work in? You need to CYA with these forms that document the failure before hand so the user does not blame you for breaking it or losing data.

If itbreaks you repair or replace it. The assigning of fault to an individual on a simple failure is a waste of time,$,emotion.

The VP of marketing dropped his laptop. Should the company fire him? No you buy a new laptop. The same should apply for you.

You’re the PC doctor and sometimes the patient dies. You got to move on.

When I work on a PC/laptop I figure on the worst-case scenario, and tell the user this. This way their expectations are not unrealistic.

I do work on personal machines for coworkers if there is time. But you got to know whom your dealing with. You don’t trust them or know them you don’t work on their PC.

Sounds like the person you were trying to help out is a scumbag trying to take advantage of you to replace the Laptop at your cost. There is almost nothing you could have done to cause this failure (except static, not likely).

by dlswingle

Some co-workers think you are there to support their home computers the same as you support their work computers. When someone brings me a computer from home to "take a quick look at," I tell them I don't have time during the day, and will stay late the first night I have a chance to--or if I do find some time during the day, I will try to look at it. Sometimes they don't like the indefiniteness of this and that's fine with me. The only exception to this is if the employee is salaried and uses the computer at home to work. I consider that an extension of their work computer. In any case, there should be no implied responsibility for a non-working computer. You did not sell it to them in the first place, and you are not in the business of providing warantee work on a computer that is not paid for or provided by your company.

by mrafrohead

No, you're fine unless you did actually break it and don't want to admit it. And from the sounds of it, that is not the scenario. Therefore, I wouldn't give it another thought.

If she was concerned about it being broken while it was being looked at, she should have taken it to an "authorized" repair shop and spent a couple of bucks. At least then, if something happened, they would have to replace it.

Unfortuantely, it could have broken when you hit the power button... Power surge or something of the like. Granted it may have been you that hit the power button, but it would be coincidence and not your fault. It's not like you would have plugged it into a 235V outlet...;)

Anywho, if I was you, I would just tell her to bugger off and then ignore her.

mrafrohead

Also, if she hadn't used it in six months to a year and needed the modem configured... How did she know that it wasn't set or still set to work as it did before??? Sounds like she tried it and it didn't (themodem) work right and maybe the laptop broke then. And now you're the scape goat... But then again, that's just speculation... ;)

by tomsal

I think using the "just ignore her" its not your problem route is chuck full of poor business ethics, integrity and its simply unprofessional.

Maybe if we are teenagers talking about our friends personal system, then passing the buck is "cool" orjust. But we are talking about grown adults in the work place correct?

Remember ethics isn't about what FEELS fair or unfair its about what IS fair or unfair.

I'm not trying to defame anyone or insult them. However I'm just telling you that the attitude of a good IT professional is not one that would just say "Hey its your problem not mine - it worked fine for me".

Even if the user you are helping is the stupidest, most careless person in the history of mankind.

by mrafrohead

I agree with TomSal if it IS in the workplace. But my understanding of the whole ball of wax, is it is a co-workers PERSONAL machine. Which is not work related, therefore requires no professionalism at all. Although tact would be nice:)

Had itbeen a work machine, then I concur 110%.

In my opinion she needs to spend some money, and take that computer to a repair shop to have them replace/repair the LCD or video card that is causing the issue.

Or else spend the money to purchase the card/LCD if SoulRider is interested in doing the labor to replace it.

But that's just my two cents. Just wanted to clarify my statement previously in case it was not properly written and not easily understood. As I do have a problem with that:)

mrafrohead

by tomsal

I think using the "just ignore her" its not your problem route is chuck full of poor business ethics, integrity and its simply unprofessional.

Maybe if we are teenagers talking about our friends personal system, then passing the buck is "cool" orjust. But we are talking about grown adults in the work place correct?

Remember ethics isn't about what FEELS fair or unfair its about what IS fair or unfair.

I'm not trying to defame anyone or insult them. However I'm just telling you that the attitude of a good IT professional is not one that would just say "Hey its your problem not mine - it worked fine for me".

Even if the user you are helping is the stupidest, most careless person in the history of mankind.

by tomsal

I think using the "just ignore her" its not your problem route is chuck full of poor business ethics, integrity and its simply unprofessional.

Maybe if we are teenagers talking about our friends personal system, then passing the buck is "cool" orjust. But we are talking about grown adults in the work place correct?

Remember ethics isn't about what FEELS fair or unfair its about what IS fair or unfair.

I'm not trying to defame anyone or insult them. However I'm just telling you that the attitude of a good IT professional is not one that would just say "Hey its your problem not mine - it worked fine for me".

Even if the user you are helping is the stupidest, most careless person in the history of mankind.

by isys

I have to agree from the way the original story is written this person was looking for a way to blame someone else for the demise of the display.

by jerryserg

Here are a few questions:

1) Was the laptop purchased for her by the company?

If the answer is NO then you were basically doing her a favor wether it was for her job or not.

If the company did purchase it for her then move on with life andsee if it is still under warranty. If it is your in the clear and if not the person you work for should back you in getting her another laptop so she can do her very important job.

Remember shit happens things break.................

by tomsal

After reading all the lastest posts on this matter and thinking about it...

Its a little unsettling to read the general consensus which seems to be if its outside of the workplace or if it is a favor - then anything goes. No need to feel you should be accountable or responsible in that case.

Maybe I've adopted some of my parents old fashion traits and qualities and in this modern society the proverbial "bar" to which all standards are measured drops lower and lower and lower, but I think its fundamentally bad to not treat a job with "respect" just because you aren't getting paid for it.

Like I said in a previous post - perhaps that attitude is fine if you are a teenager, but we are suppose to be adults right? Isn't that how its supposed to work - you take on more accountability and responsibility as you mature - mentally and physically.

If you do favors for your friends or family, by accident you "screw up" (you break something you were trying to fix, etc.) - then what do you? You say to yourself "Oh well, I was using MY time trying to help him/her out - next time why don't they PAY someone to do this..." -- that's wrong! Just plain wrong.

If you don't have the real heart/desire to truly help someone out - then don't offer or accept a request to help someone out!

Number one if you half-heartedly attempt to help someone but don't accept accountability if it goes wrong - you're a fake person. You aren't that person's friend - you could care less. You have another agenda - maybe its to score points with a powerful client to earn business, ..who knows..but your certainly aren't helping with the right intentions and you are far from demonstrating you are a professional.

Again, if you have a poor attitudeof helping someone why offer in the first place? It's ok to say "no" sometimes.

by tomsal

Sorry just needed to laugh at myself for my stupid typos! lol..

what the hell's "lastest?" lol.

by isys

I agree with everything you have said, but how about addressing the possibility that this person broke it herself and is looking for someone else to blame it on? And since it's at work, possibly she is looking for the employer to compensate her?

by dmiles

I hold myself of high integrity and will go beyond to help anyone and I think in posting this I was looking for others comments as how to handle a situation like this.
I will or did not in anyway damage the machine nad as I posted I only plug in the machine and pushed the power button.
Technically do I have to start using a more business approach in dealing with friends.
I thought this to be a good discussion to get feed back and it has given me more insight as how I may have to conduct onsite dropoffs from now on.
I appreciate your comments

by jerryserg

Tom either you type real fast or you have way too much time on your hands. I have experienced this first hand and it all comes down to does the person who you report to have any balls will they back you or use you as a sacarficial lamb?

I totallyagree with some things you said but if it is not a company issue laptop and most likely an old laptop then it doen't matter who the person is you need to get them a new laptop if it helps them in their job.

If the person is trying to blame someone in the company for breaking it then maybe that person not a team player. You need to turn things around in life.

by generalist

If the estimated time of last use was six months to a year ago, then I would be suspicious that it was having problems six months to a year ago. I've heard of situations where letting a PC/laptop go that long without running it is rough on the PC/laptop.

This would be especially true if the PC/laptop spent a lot of time on the road.

You might want to ask about what was happening to the unit during its 'vacation'. It might have indeed been working the last time it was used but died of non-traumatic abuse in the interrim.

If you do the follow up right, being friendly yet logical, the person in question might admit that they did something that might have had an adverse effect on the unit. For example, they might have misplaced it in a closet and 'discovered' it when it fell to the floor while they were looking for something else...

by mrafrohead

Here is another way of looking at it.

You could treat it as a business transaction, and behave as you would any other person that you do BUSINESS with.

Kindly sit her down, explain to her that you were brought a computer to set up a modem in.But unfortunately, it appears that the display doesn't work therefore you can not repair the modem until the display is repaired. And since the display has to be repaired first, you can bill her for the part and labor to repair that first and then go from there for setting up the modem.

If she would like this whole thing to be treated as if you are a business and not a friend, then reciprocate the same back to her. Treat her as if she is your client.

And since this is NOT a work relatedcomputer, inform her that you will not be able to work on it on Company time and that it will be ready as soon as a slot opens up in your free time after work.

Off the subject - I would not worry about the foul odor that she may be spilling around the office about this whole mess. Just do your JOB the BEST that you can and the true light WILL shine through and your co-workers will notice it. Make sure that you are always in the right and you will not lose.

mrafrohead

by isys

The first half is right on. There's no reason to do otherwise. But if she is going around the company speaking ill of anyone, that will do one of two things-either make the people lose respect for her because she has become a malicious gossip or cast doubt on the honesty of the technician. And if there is an occurrence where something else mysterious happens (and dealing with technology, that's about every 10 minutes), people will begin to wonder if there's some truth in the stories. That part has to be stopped quickly.

by fluxit

There are many interesting remarks about this subject. I too have been duped into repairing everyones and his brother pc for free or some token payment like lunch.

One of the big problems I came across was people who economize thier systems withoff brand hardware that promises the world but rarely delivers. They bring me these systems because of conflicts and other problems with the hardware and expect me to resolve it. Most of the time I can and it take a lot of finessing. Then a day or so later the system would fail again and they would be in my face about it.

I urge them to buy standard hardware but they rarely want the hassle and refuse to spend the money. So I bought a slew of low end popular modems, sound cards, and video cards for less than $20.00 ea. I would tell these people that the card is bad and I can replace it for less than $30 and they usually talk me down to $25 and feel good about it. I would make around $5, reduce my headaches, then usually get a lunch out of it.

I always power the system in front of them first and advise them to back everything up.

by lynn.nash

Just a point of information. Laptops that have sat idle for 6 months with the battery installed may not power-up. The power circuits in many laptops require a minimum charge on the battery before it will work with the battery installed. Remove thebattery and see if the laptop powers up. If so then problem solved.

by pepeledog

Just my opinion - you can't be held "accountable" for a system breaking. It just happened. I've seen this before, especially with sales types. They bring a "working" system in and then claim it was working before you touched it. Good luck. BTW, you might want to invest in a spell checker. ;)

by mrafrohead

I guess I just don't understand something here... If you receive a broken piece of equipment that you were told was working before you got it, yet you did not do anything that would make you think that you were the cause of it to not work, why should you hold yourself accountable??? Better yet why should they??? You're stuck in a stalemate. They probably think that you're lying and you could think that they're lying.

Also, why would professionalism have anything to do with YOUR time. I am all kinds of professional at work. I bend over backwards to make sure that everything is right. I take pride in my work.

At home, I will do the same, but at home, when I feel I'm being bullshitted, I WILL call their bluff and put the whole situation in check REAL quick.

At home, there is not worry about being "written up" or "fired". At work, there is a bigger margin of crap to be put up with. And we all know how often we're bullshitted at work.

"My computer all of the sudden doesn't work. There was one of you IS guys here yesterday and now I can't get onto the network. What did you do to my system???" Turns out they didn't plug the dongle into their laptop after returning from a meeting...

That kind of thing at work, would roll off the shoulders. At home, it'd roll off the shoulders, but before hitting the ground would include my two cents and maybe even four more for their trying to insult me when it was their neglect that caused the whole problem in the first place.

by tomsal

..er stick I mean. ;)

I hear you man - with the bs we (IT employees) take. Let's not forget our best friends - sales and accounting people. "Welcome to Sales...were we want all the money, none of the responsibility, first class trips around the country for a BS speech that lasts 60 minutes then we spend the next 3 days of our "BUSINESS" trip wining, dining and sightseeing...oh yeah, why did you take minesweeper off my computer?"....

Had a sales woman come to me 5 minutes (yes I said FIVE minutes!) before she had to leave to catch her plane for a business trip to Chicago. She wanted to use our color laser printer for a sales presentation that was 25 pages long. Did I mention that she came to me 5 MINUTES before she had to leave? oh ok...then I told her that the machine is out of toner JUST LIKE WHAT I TOLD YOU TWICE IN EMAILS EARLIER THIS WEEK, ONCE IN PERSON (SHE HAD ASKED BEFORE) AND NOW I'M TELLING YOU AGAIN! (oh sorry got carried away)...anyway, I was like "hello? anyone home" (Aren't sales people supposed to be great communicators and listeners?)... I didn't get rude with her, I was on the virge though because I didn't appreciate her flipping out after I told her multiple times during that week about the printer situation and then she comes to me 5 minutes prior to wanting to print a 25 page full color sales presentation.

So I couldn't agree more with your frustration..we all have tons of stories I'm sure of the BS we put up with at work.

I like the philosophy of "walking softly but carrying a big stick"...meaning - first be polite, professional, courtesy as a situation warrants but if someone crosses the line with disrespect or whatever you must confront them right then, right there, and make it so theynever question you again.

by dlswingle

... a user say "Ever since you blah, blah, blah, on my system, my blah, blah, blat, has not been blat, blat, blah, blah." The line of reasoning is that because one event FOLLOWED another event, the previous event CAUSED the following event. Guess what? There are an infinite number of "events" that occur in the universe and for the most part, they are NOT the cause of any following event. Just because soulrider touched her laptop and it was working before he touched it does not mean that he CAUSED her laptop to quit working.

by isys

When you look them in the eye and say "It won't connect to the network if the cable is disconnected" make sure it's loud enough for the rest of the office to hear. After a few of those you might get some slack.

by mrafrohead

Hopefully I am not coming across as a Teenybopper, as I'm 24. That wouldn't be very good, but this is my opinion. Work and Home are two totally different things. I have different computer ethics at work than I do at home.

But to the matter at hand, I think that if this was a personal deal done on personal time and there is no work anything in the picture. Why go the extra mile for someone who is talking around the office behind your back??? If that's the level that they want to stoop to, let them deal with their own problem.

Personally, I have fixed all of my friends computers except for one. I enjoy doing it. I get a lot of self satisfaction over it. The reason the one person doesn't have it done is, he brought it over. After I started, requests started to turn into demands. That's not how you treat a friend, so I put my foot down. I took his computer, returned it to EXACTLY how I received it and returned it to him. Told him he could spend the time to learn how todo what he needed to do and then do it himself. At work, you'd just get the demands done. At home you don't have to.

So hopefully this has clarified my angle a little bit. Hopefully it just didn't make me appear in a darker light than it appears some of my other posts have. But this is my opinion and I'm stickin to it;)

Send me a note though if you think that I'm wrong, but please make it constructive and let me know why.

mrafrohead
@yahoo.com

by isys

You're like most of us, it makes you feel good to be able to help someone out, whether it's fixing their computer or their lawnmower. But when someone takes advantage of you, it makes you mad. If you explained to your demanding friend what the consequences to his demands were, then that was the appropriate thing to do. I think that you are finding like I did that common courtesy isn't that common.

by dmiles

Your opinion is not offensive and I am not taking it personal,I enjoy helping others and will put more into it than I really get from the the client.
More times than none I will get more satisfaction from the helping someone than actual compensation for the demands and work to be done.
I have been upfront about this situation and thought I would open a discussion to hear what others have to sya about helping non-paying customers.
I thought I would get a few pointers from the opinions and expierence,that I can handle this situation when it comes up again.
Thanks fo your comments

by zlitocook

work in the first place. She did not even remember when the last time she used it? I repair computers in my home all the time 42 at last count. I tell folks I am not a shop and if I can not fix it them will have to take it to a better equpt shop. But they know it will cost alot so if some thing is wrong or dont work right they can not complane. Ask the silly girl to prove it worked just befor she brought it to you or shut up! You can sue for defamation of character. Sorry this kind of thing makes us all look bad.

by mrafrohead

Soulrider,

I think that I have it all figured out...

Tell me how this sounds. I'll come over there and you and I will go ahead and ask the kind lady nicely about the true happenings with the laptop. If she doesn't admit to giving you a broken laptop... I'll give her a SUPER WEDGIE!!!!!! until she admits it;)

Normally by the time the waist band is around the forehead, the person will just tell you what you want to hear just so you leave them alone!!!

See - problem fixed. It wasn't that hard, now was it;) hehhehehehe

Just had to add a little humor;)

mrafrohead

By the way, how is it working out as of now???

by dmiles

I have not talked to her since saturday,letting her know that the laptop still will not work and was to turn it backover to her this Tues.,but I have been home ill with the flu so Thursday will be my first day back and I plan on turning the computerover will post after talking to her

by tomsal

Your opinion is sound. But your theory is wrong. Just correcting your theory that's all. What I mean is suggesting that events happen in the universe will little or no effect to other events. That is actually in DIRECT contrast to nearly all the major theories of the universe, including those established by Albert Einstein - which actually suggest that the universe is incredibly active and even elements of the universe as small as atoms directly react off one another. I'm sorry that off the topof my head I can't remember the name of all the sciences and theories involved - but I could get the info - if pressed. ;)

by tomsal

Two posts from you now?

Is there a problem you have with me? Please let me know and perhaps we can understand each other better in a professional way.

That said - what is wrong with someone holding on to their opinions about a topic and then just correcting information you know to be false.

Is it not cool or crazy to just let false statements stand - I sure didn't get the memo on it if there was?

Furthermore, lighten guy.

Let's not degrade this into some childish mud slinging fest - there are already too many AOL users doing that across the web. :)

(AOL Instant Messenger anyone? haha)

by tomsal

Two posts from you now?

Is there a problem you have with me? Please let me know and perhaps we can understand each other better in a professional way.

That said - what is wrong with someone holding on to their opinions about a topic and then just correcting information you know to be false.

Is it not cool or crazy to just let false statements stand - I sure didn't get the memo on it if there was?

Furthermore, lighten guy.

Let's not degrade this into some childish mud slinging fest - there are already too many AOL users doing that across the web. :)

(AOL Instant Messenger anyone? haha)

by tomsal

What's your problem with me Jerry?

Not used to people who stand by their opinions? Did you read the post prior to mine.

My spiel on the universe thing (which was half written as being a joke btw) was just based on real fact. The guy made a point that nearly no events in the universe effect others, I was just saying its wrong theory. That's all. Look it up, you'll find I'm right.

Are you someone I need to clear things with before I post my own thoughts?

Please let me know - the people who disagree with me have posted in a mature way saying so. That's cool. That's how this forum "thing" is supposed to work. So if you disagree just say so but state why, not short statements intended to provoke an ugly exchange / argument. On the other hand - if I jumped on every word you said for no good reason, I could understand getting attitude back from you.

I now know why you disagree with me - you obviously have no concept of integrity or professionalism.

Good day.

;)

by dmiles

The power light comes on the icon for the battery and pwer shows up,the light remains on ,but their is no display on the screen.
She had someone looking at installing the modem and they were not able to get the modem to work after swithching the modems,so as far as why she has not used the computer in six monthhs is beyond me.Thanks for the comments

by lordinfidel

Out of curiosity?

If it posts then it is probably the cable harness.
If no post, then look for obvious stuff like RAM, video card, etc. I would make sure that all the crap was in there.

I know it's a moot point by now, and you probably checked all of that plus your not touching it again anyways.

I was just thinking out loud.

by jerry smith

Someone else tried to fix the modem before you. Did she use the computer between the time they tried and the time you tried?

If they tested the modem on a digital line - like an ATT system... it could have fried the modem and the system.

You have NO video including no external video. My laptop screen recently died. I could still hookup to an external monitor though. The tech tried replacing the screen but eventually replace the system board.

My associate had a problem with hisbattery being LOOSE. Something needed tightening. Nothing worked until it was tightened. (equivalent to a bad battery)

My opinion. You aren't responsible. She irresponsible for not turning it on for 6 months!

by dmiles

The modem was check via a phone line,but he used a different modem and then diagnosed the modem to be the problem
I have taken the battery out and used the electrical outlet as its main source and still cannot get video
I am not willing to touch anything else to try and solve the problem,especially if it means taking anything apart.

by ferocious

I usually ask people "when did it work last?" before I even touch it. I ask the user to physically touch it first by asking them to power it up. It can be a touchy situation re: personal possessions. It's not too late to ask her again the first question.

Since its a portable, ask her if anyone else had access to it at home.

People do have the tendency to blame others for problems, and the best way to confront this is to explain in a calm manner that batteries don't last that long when not charged on a regular basis, or whatever the case may be. Do research on that product's website. Document everything you've done since she brought it in. One user recommended a warranty disclaimer, which works great when you're in business for yourself, but which may conflict with company policy.

The ultimate question: "Is it your fault?" I would say Yes if you don't try to get her in a one-to-one conversation and tell her what the possible problem(s) could be. Do whatever it takes to regain her trust that you know what you are doing. Put the ball in her court. Be a detective and attempt to find out everything you can re: that laptop. This will keep her off-balance. Be sincere in your efforts and don't walk away from the issue.

by dlswingle

Good comments from SealyTexan!!! I agree totally. I would also like to pass on a pithy comment I once heard from a Better Business Bureau representative: "Two percent of all consumers cannot be pleased." It doesn't matter how much time and effort you give to them, it doesn't matter if you render the service for free, or even if you have the manager shot, they still will be unhappy with the service or product you provide. The trick is to figure out who the two percent are (could this particular co-worker be one?) and then get on with your life.

by tomsal

I don't know, maybe I'm having a moment of stupidity here but am I supposed to be saying "thanks for your input" or are you trying to cleverly insult me? ;)

Your post was confusing.

I'd go as far as saying it makes no sense at all what you were trying to post but then I'd sound to critical. lol.

As for typing - yes I do type fast, how do you think I make so many mistakes? LOL.

Furthermore, what does "You need to turn things around in life" mean - I mean what are you implying?

If I'm just misunderstanding you - please let me know. If you are trying to shake my tree - it failed miserably.

thanks for your input "Jerry Baby" ;)

by tomsal

I don't know, maybe I'm having a moment of stupidity here but am I supposed to be saying "thanks for your input" or are you trying to cleverly insult me? ;)

Your post was confusing.

I'd go as far as saying it makes no sense at all what you were trying to post but then I'd sound to critical. lol.

As for typing - yes I do type fast, how do you think I make so many mistakes? LOL.

Furthermore, what does "You need to turn things around in life" mean - I mean what are you implying?

If I'm just misunderstanding you - please let me know. If you are trying to shake my tree - it failed miserably.

thanks for your input "Jerry Baby" ;)

by maxwell edison

Soulrider,

This has indeed been an interesting discussion. I’ve read all the posts, and the majority consensus (about ten respondents) is to tell her to take a long walk off a short pier. Among other suggestions (about 6) were to discuss, negotiate, and offer to help, but not pay. There were about a dozen suggestions of what you “should have” done. (Yea, and you also should have invested $1,000 in Microsoft in 1985.) Another half-dozen or so went off on their own “off-topic” tangent, and didn’t really make any suggestions. Of course, that’s not counting the messages involving a cyber-lover’s spat. You got one suggestion that you should simply give her a “super-wedgie”. (I like that idea.) And one person even blamed Albert Einstein for an imperfect universe. Two people came right out and suggested that you should be held accountable.

So, about sixteen thought you should not be held accountable. While only two suggested you should be. (My numbers, by the way, are only estimates. It was a challenge to keep track of duplicate posts, personal dissertations, and, of course, the cyber-lover’s spat.)

So, based on the opinions of your esteemed peers, you should tell her, in no uncertain terms, that she’s a lowlife #%*&#% who’s just trying to take advantage of you, and that she should take her laptop, and begin a very long walk off a very short pier.

(After, of course, you give her that super-wedgie.)

continued….

by maxwell edison

If this happened to me, how would I handle it?

My two considerations would be these.

The computer in question is worth about $300.00. (You could buy a similar model on ebay for $200 - $400.) And how could this person affect my career?

Ifmy boss or supervisor, or some "officer" in a corporation could make my work life miserable - or adversely affect my career, I'd pay the jerk $300.00 to get her off my back. I would do this, mind you, not to give in or succumb to being taken advantage of, but to protect my own future best interest.

Here's an analogy - Watch out at those 4-way stop signs. If you get there first, of course you have the right of way. If you get there before the person on your right, and that person waves you togo ahead, and you do go ahead but that person intentionally runs into you, and if there are no witnesses, you will be the one ticketed and held responsible for the accident because, in the absence of a witness, the person on the right has the right-of-way - Even though you KNOW you were being taken advantage of. Sometimes there's not a whole lot you can do about it. (But officer, I wasn't waving him on. I was just blocking the sun from my eyes.)

There are people who look for opportunities to put one over on the other guy. If it's in your best interest to fight it, then so be it. Fight it with all the vigor you can muster. However, if it's in your best interest to pay her off, then look at it as tuition in the lesson of life. $300.00 isa cheap price to get rid of a pain-in-the a**.

(I'll chip in a buck. Soulrider has helped enough other people to probably get 299 more.)

However – and this is a big however - If this person was nothing but an insignificant, pain in the a** troublemaker, and could have no impact on my career whatsoever, I'd offer her a ride to the dock. On second thought, I’d tell her to take a cab.

Maxwell

by mrafrohead

I would have to say that I agree with Maxwell whole heartedly!!!

So maybe you should just follow this, and if for some chance you agreed with anything I may have posted earlier, ignore it. Just follow this.

I think that Maxwell has hit the nail on the head exactly. That was something that I did fail to think about. The significance of the person who had the laptop... That was a pretty damned big oversight to...;(

One quick question though. Maxwell, who was it that had the "Cyber-lovers" spat??? I must have missed that, and would like to reread it... hehehhe

mrafrohead

by jerryserg

Yes I do.

I believe I work with some Tech's like you (If that is what you are) meaning you have nothing but negative comments and actually think that you are more intelligent then others.

I am not sure if you are a boss but just realize thatthe only reason some people make you think you are GOD maybe because of your position and not your talent.

Oh one more thing

BLOW ME...........................

by mrafrohead

Thanks Maxwell...;)

I failed to read those until later on. I started at the top a few days before those posted and didn't realize they were up their until just recently.. I thought I had already read all of the above...;)

Newho - thanks;)mrafrohead

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