Doug has worked for me for about 4-5 years, doing A LOT OF WORK. Now that his business has grown, I asked him for a bid on my backyard the last week of May, which I wanted to have completed around the 15 of June, give or take a few days longer if necessary.
After sending several reminder emails asking for the quote, TODAY I get an email that he is too busy to do it! One week before I wanted it done!
So much for customers that always gave him work and sent referrals.