Author Topic: steady decline (Read 485 times)

micky navarro · « **on:** February 22, 2012, 08:06:52 AM »

i been a forum member here for a lil over 5 yrs, and in all honesty, i've enjoyed it immensely! lotsa "net" friends, helped out many, been helped by many as well,

but...........

these last couple months have shown a steady decline, not only in subject matter, but in posters attitudes towards eachother

the mutual respect that once made this the best board to participate in, seems to have gone by the wayside, and that makes me sad!

i hope and pray it gets back on track here

Mike M · « **Reply #1 on:** February 22, 2012, 08:45:45 AM »

Guess I need to take a more hands on approach instead of sit back and watch attitude?

I have tried to let others post so it doesn't look like I'm in on everything.

Is it a few negative posts that make all look bad?

Thanks for the insight Micky. I hope others will read it and think of ways to help instead of negate.

We all have a lot more in common here than most realize.

Ed Valentine · « **Reply #2 on:** February 22, 2012, 09:29:55 AM »

Funny, I was thinking about a similar aspect just yeasterday.

This IS a great board and will always remain that way as long as Mike M has control, IMHO. And, personally, I haven't noticed any negative postings here; however, it is very true that negative and/or personal adjenda postings will most definitely ruin any board, just as it has with the TM Forum.

However, in regards to participation, I have witnessed every board in our Industry is way down....in the USA. In the UK, it seems that they are still bustling for whatever reason. I think only as a guess, that many in the USA are in a "holding pattern" ; the soon to come primaries, the eventual elections, and just over-all depression over this stalled economy and cureent elected leaders.

My prediction: "IF" we make a hugh change in Washington, and "IF" the elected Leaders do what they have preached they would do (cut the budget and stop spending), the stock market will take off and our economy will boom once again. Businesses have not reinvested over the past decade plus, and new start-ups have stalled. Inventories have been depleted and assets/material items are long over-due for replacement.

In the end, "IF" the above happens, this board and others will also be in demand!

(I left out many specifics, but you get the point, I hope)

Best to all;
Ed Valentine

Mike M · « **Reply #3 on:** February 22, 2012, 09:44:35 AM »

Honestly I have never been particularly happy with the volume here on this board.

I have tried to provide some of the best software/features available and provide a non biased place to post. Every other board seems to have an agenda or something to sell.

Since we haven't had volume I was content to have quality and hope that we were helping others.

Another reason we may see less on each board is because there are more of them now? There could also be a lot less people in the business right now too. I personally know quite a few who have left the industry.

Hope Ed is right and things pick up for all. Would also helped if consumers started buying carpet again. The recent trends have been hard surface.

Andy Mc · « **Reply #4 on:** February 22, 2012, 01:40:11 PM »

The first bunch of "regulars" all had similar bussiness modles , most were LM cleaners , with OP. We all were like a brother hood cheering each other on and learning from one another. That was what made this board so great, and different . But most cleaners are HWE, and that's why the membership is less than some of the other boards. (IMO) The older members like Micky , have perty much learned how to clean and what pre spray we like, so not much reason for us to talk about OP stuff, we all know it already. Main thing we can do is help new guys learn. But I don't want to train the compitish, , too many lurking around here learning from every one else and offering nothing in return. I don't know who any of them are?

Look at how many veiws a thread get's VS how many posts. Also I think debate and argument should be encouraged, as long as respect is maintained, I mean this is not kindergarden class. We are all men , and sometimes grown men have to duke it out. Steel sharpens steel.

Mike M · « **Reply #5 on:** February 22, 2012, 01:51:20 PM »

I created the "frequent posters" area so people could discuss things without lurkers seeing it.

Only those with 50 posts or more can see it.

Ed Valentine · « **Reply #6 on:** February 22, 2012, 01:59:03 PM »

I just wanted to pick up where our good friend, Andy, left off by commenting truthfully:

Quote

too many lurking around here learning from every one else and offering nothing in return.

He's right on here. There are a few "Givers" and a lot of; "Takers" unfortunately in any business IMHO. For example, on The All Things Recoil board, on a recent topic, there were 89 "Takers".......and..........only 3 "Givers" of information/comments! Truely unbelievable, and nearly impossible to turn around. Over the years, I have had many Operators call me to complain about what a couple (of the known board terrorists) have said. I mention to all; "well then, if you feel so strongly in that view please go on the board and tell it like it is". Well, they will all tell you, "OK, I'll get on it tonite"! (and ofcourse, never do). Too bad because as a group, we all could make this Industry a lot better off and push those few terrorists to their own island to destroy each other, but...........................

I also know many many of the old timers I have spoken with, who really did offer great help have left due to the in-fighting negative posts. These individuals probably will not come back.

However, we must keep doing the right thing and grow slowly but solidly. And, I really do believe that if the economy begins on the straight and narrow, that alone will bring many to this fine board!

Great posts above;
Ed Valentine

Mike M · « **Reply #7 on:** February 22, 2012, 02:38:12 PM »

Ed - You are right.

Anyone that has ever run a forum will tell you that only a small percentage of people post. ...............Then they move on if nothing new is posted.

Nick · « **Reply #8 on:** February 22, 2012, 03:44:06 PM »

Well Mike I really like this board. Seems like a nice bunch of people.
Just recently there has been some bashing I really don't care for. I like
to be positive.

ChemBright · « **Reply #9 on:** February 22, 2012, 08:01:47 PM »

I will be honest with you all.....

I have almost commented twice on the bickering between the two Johns. Honestly, I am switching back to vacaway chems from Bonnet Pro's because of this crap. Another thing is I am and have been in a very pissy mood because of life situations, my dad having cancer and having to deal with him, his attitude and all else. I have Valley Fever which has made all my joints swollen to where I have had to cancel jobs. I have had the flue and a major cold in the last two weeks as well, My house is on the market and I have had to drop it 31K just to get people in the door while in the meantime I am in contract to have another house built. My little dog keeps getting out of the house and runs away, I am changing way to many poopy diapers and then I have had grumpy custys that want to take me to court over a spot on thier carpet.

All that said, Iam moody and probably will continue to be. I also feel like this board isn't the same anymore. I also think and find it immature to see two guys who build machines fight like little school girls. I am half a nickle away from leaving this board, but when I think about hitting the delete button I go and take my medicine.

I hope things turn around here and most of all, I hope I lose my tude in life.

jeffvanburen · « **Reply #10 on:** February 23, 2012, 03:24:27 AM »

I still say post for post this is one of the best boards around. The little bit of bashing will always happen. Remember also this time of year is slow for many and stress is up. Other boards have so many poseys waiting to jump on and tear apart post that don't think alike their opinions. Mike has done a great job with the board as has all the moderators.

Nick · « **Reply #11 on:** February 23, 2012, 05:43:17 AM »

Hey chembright, hang it there, it will get better. They will stop and if they don't
I'm sure mike will handle it.

Mike M · « **Reply #12 on:** February 23, 2012, 06:41:31 AM »

Chem - Hope things turn around for you and that you are feeling better soon. That's a lot for anyone to tackle at once.

I'm sorry that so many members have been turned off by recent events on the board. I will take whatever action is necessary to keep it under control. The goal here is to remain an independent place for cleaners to post and discuss things related to the industry. We won't let a few ruin it for the many.

The best moderators are the members here.

micky navarro · « **Reply #13 on:** February 23, 2012, 08:14:40 AM »

hey jon, sorry to hear, ya'll have so much on yer plate right now! went thru it 10yrs ago with my dad also. i was so stressed with all that it entailed, as well as the war of the roses with my ex at the time, i was on the edge of getting postal with anyone who sed something wrong, or looked at me the wrong way

regarding this board, everyones input IS what has made this the best board around, although compared to other BB's, it is rather small.
i for one have always preferred QUALITY, over quantity

i, in no way, put up the original post as a sign of disrespect to mike martell, or any of our fine members here. it was/is, a simple wake up call to all of my "net" friends here, and a reminder of what we all stand for.
as mike m sed, we are independant, and we all share freely of our time and our love for the cleaning business!

i for one hope uncle ed is right about the elections coming up this year. not so much to have the bored cleaners leave here and go elsewhere, but so EVERYONE, can get back to earning the incomes they once had, and the newbies can experience first hand, the true potential, our whacked out industry really has!

as always, the very best to everyone

Mo · « **Reply #14 on:** February 23, 2012, 01:19:29 PM »

Wow Jon all that hitting you at once just plain sucks. The last thing you need is to put up with BS form this board, maybe taking a break from the board is a good idea. Hang in there.

ChemBright · « **Reply #15 on:** February 23, 2012, 04:11:36 PM »

Thanks all. It's just not taking much to get me going right now. I am burned out, tired and sick of the whining around me. Enough about my issues. I appreciate the replys.

jtmellon · « **Reply #16 on:** February 23, 2012, 05:12:19 PM »

Jon,
If it will make you feel better I will let you call me names for a dollar. For two dollars more I will even give you my phone number.

All the best to you Sir.

The poop diapers do stop, trust me they stop much sooner then you want them to(my daughter will be 14 this Monday) then you wish they were back in them.

Infamousdave · « **Reply #17 on:** February 23, 2012, 09:50:04 PM »

Personally I think the John and John Comedy show is slightly amusing. IMO, the only thing they are hurting is themselves and each other. When an equiptment mfgr. or supplier is a respectful member of a board like this one it usually makes me not only want to do business with them but I feel a sense of loyalty to them. When they act like these 2 it just makes me want to run the other way and find someone else to be loyal to.

I enjoy the topics on this board even though I may not be a long time poster and insider like most of the rest here. I have been helped in more ways than I can articulate into words by the members of this board and I hope that a little sillyness will not chase anyone off!

Grant D. · « **Reply #18 on:** February 23, 2012, 10:54:27 PM »

Sorry to hear Jon, that's really a lot of stress. I learned a lot from you, Micky, Jeff VB and others in years past and really appreciated your help and comments when needed. I don't post as much as I used to but I still love you guys. Hope you guys don't go away.

jtmellon · « **Reply #19 on:** February 24, 2012, 09:25:50 AM »

Good to know Grant that you learned nothing from me.

I never did go with the flow.

Ed Valentine · « **Reply #20 on:** February 26, 2012, 02:37:34 PM »

Jonathon;

Never forget that life certainly does have its hurdles. Keep your focus on what it is that is the most important to you rather than the hurdles themselves. And, as you progress as , and as each day goes by you will have one less in front of you. Then, you will be able to look over your shoulder and it'll all be history.

Always remember that Good Things in life never come easy, but are worth working for because it is the sign of achievement.

You are a great person and have all these friends above on your side.

Very best;
Ed Valentine

ChemBright · « **Reply #21 on:** February 26, 2012, 09:21:28 PM »

Thanks Ed and everyone. Didn't mean to hijack this thread with my junk. Things will get better I know.

Juan Rodriguez · « **Reply #22 on:** February 27, 2012, 10:01:22 AM »

Jon, that is a lot to face at once. But, as mentioned above, things will get better, trust me... I hope you find peace and comfort through all.

IMO, this board is the best board around. I don't post as much as I should and perhaps I am guilty about being more of a taker than a giver. We hang together "leaning" from each other, at the same time "communicating with respect". That is the icon of this board. This board is overwhelmed with knowledge and the willingness to share. I have learned a lot here. We have a few posters, but they are "quality posters".

As far as misunderstandings, well, it happens when you have different opinions between people. However, there is no excuse for bashing on a public forum. I believe escalated differences should be settle through PM or perhaps a courtesy phone call between the parties.

I will try to be more of a giver and post more often.

Thank you to all for making this board what it is, and a big THANK YOU TO MIKE!

Bonnet Pro · « **Reply #23 on:** February 27, 2012, 12:38:40 PM »

Well my apologies. John G and I both voluntarily decided to remove posts from the locked board. Carpet cleaning is one stress level. Manufacturing is 10 x that. So when the stakes increase so do at times the length of your teeth. Sorry for the stress caused to the board.

News:

Author Topic: steady decline (Read 485 times)