Submitted by Carol Doehrman
Posted: July 25, 2008
Metal Man is on the go
Owner of mobile business that buys gold and silver says honesty, fair pricing and professionalism are priorities
Economic times are tough. Gas prices are causing the cost of most consumer goods to skyrocket. The housing market is shaky, and stocks are down. Many of us are thinking twice before spending dollars on items like fancy coffee, dining out, and buying clothes, shoes and jewelry. Vacations are taken closer to home or not at all due to increased air fares. Our disposable income is diminishing. Metal Man can help replenish it.
Metal Man is a mobile buyer of old or damaged gold and silver jewelry, coins and flatware. Owner Stephen (Metal Man) answered some questions about his business.
Question: What do you do and why do you do it?
Answer: Metal Man buys gold and silver jewelry, coins, ingots and sterling flatware in the Greater Indianapolis Area. I go to customers and pay cash for their metal.
I like business and enjoy meeting people. Moreover, it is personally fulfilling to give customers a good deal. Many have been speechless because they got far more than they expected; that's satisfying.
Q: How did you get started as the Metal Man?
A: I left the U.S. Army late in 2003 with a medical situation. So then I needed a way to support my family that fit my circumstances. After some searching, God opened the door to this opportunity. With my wife's support, I started Metal Man. The positive response has kept me going.
Q: What interested you about the business?
A: There were a few points that attracted me. I can make a living this way and still have liberty to address my health needs. It also affords me valuable time with my family. Additionally, it is a chance to truly serve customers in an industry that often sees them only as dollar signs.
Q: Where is the business located? Are there plans for growth?
A: Metal Man is a mobile business; I go to customers' homes and workplaces for their convenience. However, most of our clients live or work in or near Fishers. Recently, Metal Man launched a Web site, www.indymetalman.com. Metal Man will have a promotional booth at the Business Expo in Fishers on Oct. 11. Metal Man is growing.
Q: How do you do it? Is there a process you can briefly describe?
A: It starts with the person who has gold and/or silver to sell. Usually they search and find Metal Man online or are referred by a previous customer. If they visit the Web site, it answers common questions on the FAQ page.
Then they call or e-mail, and we schedule a time to meet. This often is the same day or even right away. Upon my arrival, I inspect their pieces, removing any that are plated or not genuine. Then I weigh the pieces, calculate value and present a price. I pay in cash and present a receipt and business card.
Q: Why should people call you?
A: I respect and value my clients and seek to exceed their expectations. I do not lowball or take advantage. Instead, I offer one fair price with a "no-haggling" policy. We earn a lot of repeat and referral business. View testimonials at www.indymetalman.com.
Q: Do you work with mostly businesses or individuals?
A: Metal Man customers are individuals selling personal property. However, some Metal Man customers own businesses and refer associates to us. Likewise, employees often pass around my name within the workplace. This results in frequent visits to businesses.
Q: Do you have a business philosophy?
A: From the beginning Metal Man has prioritized honesty, fair pricing, customer convenience and professionalism. I value and respect my customers and operate an honorable business. I try to put myself in their shoes.
www.IndyMetalMan.com. Phone: (317) 454-9700.
Carol Doehrman is with the Fishers Chamber of Commerce.