Dealing with a frustrating situation here in Akron. A competitor has been telling potential clients that I missed a major billing error on a prominent local manufacturer's account. This is completely false - I found and corrected a $45K error that saved them significant money. The competitor is apparently saying I "overlooked obvious problems" to make himself look better. This is damaging my reputation and I'm losing potential business. How do you handle this kind of unprofessional behavior while staying within CUBA ethics guidelines?
Competitor spreading rumors about my work - how to handle professionally?
Jerome, that's terrible but unfortunately not uncommon. I had something similar happen with a competitor in Boise who was badmouthing my Idaho Power audits. Document everything - get statements from satisfied clients, keep copies of your audit reports showing the savings you found. Then let your work speak for itself. Don't engage in a public mud-slinging match, it makes everyone look unprofessional.
This is why we need stronger enforcement of professional conduct standards. Can you file a complaint with CUBA about the false statements? In San Diego, we have an informal agreement among certified auditors not to disparage each other's work. Maybe your local group could establish something similar. Focus on building relationships with clients who know your quality work firsthand.
Jerome, can you get a testimonial letter from that manufacturer you helped? Nothing shuts down false rumors like documented proof of your results. I always ask satisfied clients for written testimonials specifically for situations like this. Vermont is a small market and word travels fast, but truth usually wins out if you can document it properly.
Had this happen early in my career with CPS Energy territory work. Competitor was claiming I didn't understand Texas deregulation properly. I responded by organizing a lunch-and-learn session for local facility managers about rate optimization. Showed my expertise publicly and professionally. The false claims dried up when people could see my knowledge firsthand. Turn the negative into a positive marketing opportunity.
Angela has the right idea. I've seen this kind of thing with Rocky Mountain Power auditors before. The best defense is demonstrating your competence publicly. Consider writing an article for a local business journal about common billing errors or speaking at a trade association meeting. Establishes you as the expert while staying above the fray.
Documentation is key here. Keep detailed records of all your audit findings and client communications. If this escalates, you'll need proof of your professional competence. Also consider reaching out to other local auditors - there might be a pattern of this behavior that could warrant group action. Tennessee has dealt with similar issues in our market.
Jerome, have you considered approaching the competitor directly? Sometimes a professional conversation can resolve these issues. If that doesn't work, document the false statements and consider legal consultation. Defamation of professional services is a serious matter. Your reputation is your most valuable asset in this business.
This happened to me with another Entergy auditor a few years back. I ended up having a frank conversation with him at an industry meeting. Turned out he was struggling financially and desperate for work. We actually worked out a referral arrangement that benefited both of us. Sometimes the problem is bigger than just malicious competition.
Thanks for all the advice. I did get a strong testimonial letter from the manufacturer, and I'm working on a presentation for the local Chamber of Commerce about energy cost management. Taking the high road seems to be the consensus, and it aligns with what I know is right professionally. I'll keep you posted on how it goes.
Jerome, you're handling this exactly right. I've dealt with similar situations in Memphis, and taking the professional high road always works better long-term. Focus on your client relationships and quality work. The truth has a way of coming out, and clients can usually tell the difference between real expertise and trash talk. Keep us updated on how the Chamber presentation goes.