It’s not the nicest thing to do. But for small-business owners who are having difficulty collecting receivables from their customers, especially in this tight business climate, this is an extreme option that just might work.
They’re turning to a complaint-and-resolution Web site called Uradeadbeat.com, which seeks to make nonpaying customers or businesses aware of their lapsed accounts. Many of these businesses have already gone through the proper channels to collect their bills, even lawsuits, but are still unable to get paid, the Web site claims.
When complaints are posted, the Web site generates an email to the accused or sends a postcard via snail mail, telling them that they’ve been added to the “Deadbeat List.”
The idea of tearing down the reputation of a business isn’t new. But with more customers of these businesses researching the companies online, this could be a powerful tactic to reverse a bad business practice.
Photo by Uradeadbeat.com.
CoolProducts on October 1st, 2008 at 11:16 am
Very interesting site.. I’m curious to see if it takes off. It reminds me of those sites for cheaters, etc. but on a more “professional” level.
Angela on October 2nd, 2008 at 12:23 pm
I visited the website last night and it seems like it has promise, although they probably could use an editor to help decipher some of the complaints.
I noticed that most of the complaints weren’t written very well. The website would probably gain a little more edge from simply spell checking the submission and fixing small grammatical errors before posting.
Otherwise it’s a great website and I can’t wait to see how it does!
Mike on October 3rd, 2008 at 6:39 am
Aaah Redemption. Nothing is sweeter. I’m gonna post. I’ve got a list of deserving Deadbeats.