If you run a home business, issuing refunds is part of the cost of doing business. No, we don’t like them but not offering them is really not an option. I’m going to explain why it’s a good policy to offer refunds and then show you my simple five step refund issuing process that takes me all of about two minutes. I think you will find this article informative as well as a bit entertaining.

Okay, first off, why offer refunds? The answer is very simple. When a customer knows that they can get their money back if they are not satisfied with their purchase, it gives them a sense of confidence that they don’t have to worry about being stuck with a lemon. Off line, there is almost no retail store that doesn’t have a refund policy. It is just good business. If you don’t offer them, especially for big ticket items, your sales WILL suffer.

Now, here is my five step refund issuing process. Step one, I read the refund request, have my little chuckle, especially at the ones that come five minutes after purchase, and go to my PayPal account to log in. As I am doing this, I am devoid of all emotion. I am thinking only of the person on the other end who thinks that they’re getting something for nothing, not realizing that they’re only going to let the product sit on their hard drive with every other product that they’ve purchased. Serial refunders love to buy, but they never use the stuff.

Step two, I go to advanced search. This is a great way to find any transaction. I then type in the transaction ID and look to see what part of the world this sale came from. It’s funny how certain areas just generate more refunds than others. If you notice this, you can block certain areas from even accessing your web site. That way, you don’t have to put up with this nonsense.

Step three, I issue the refund. I make sure that I follow through on each screen. One thing you have to be aware of with PayPal is that when you click on Issue Refund, you’re not done. You would think you would be, but no. Heaven forbid they may it that easy. You’re then greeted by another screen that asks you if you’re sure you want to offer this person a refund. Hey, you never know…you might decide to tell this serial refunder that you don’t issue refunds to people who ask for one five minutes after purchase. But I then think twice about it and just go on and confirm.

Step four, I log out of my PayPal account. I really don’t want to have to look at that little negative in my history. It’s just a constant reminder of some of the people I have to deal with. And that’s not conducive to a productive workday.

Step five, I go back to my life. I forget the refund ever took place and never give it a second thought. It’s part of the cost of doing business.

Yes, there are legitimate refunds and in some cases, I will even take the criticism, if it’s constructive, and make some changes to the product to improve it. But some refund requests are just too funny. I’d print some of them here, but this article is already way too long.

Anyway, that’s my five step refund issuing system. Try it sometime. I think you will find it most rewarding.

To YOUR Success,

Steven Wagenheim

Looking for a solid 4 step plan to building your own business…FREE? Pick up my free report at http://www.stevewagenheim.com/4steps.html and get started TODAY!