Many limousine services offer all-inclusive pricing that has the tip for the chauffeur already figured in, while others leave the tipping to the client. Some may charge extra for add-on luxury features, such as champagne, television, phone, etc. If you require special needs such as handicap access there may be additional charges as well. Keep in mind that shopping strictly on price can mean lower quality or poorly maintained older vehicles, unprofessional chauffeurs, and a greater chance of being late. You very well may sacrifice 5 star service if you compromise on price. If you need airport transportation services for a business associate or client, the fees may be lower than other special outings. Fees may be tax deductible as well when entertaining CEOs for business purposes. This is important to keep in mind because it can allow you to afford the best possible CEO transportation when its vital for you to select a company that caters well to corporate needs. View the Company’s Fleet Every company offers its own fleet of limos, from stretch limousines to luxury Hummers to SUV limos. Most companies provide their fleet online for you to view. You’ll want to find out what types of luxury cars are available, as well as the passenger and luggage capacity of each.

If you need a limo for three or more guests, try to secure a car with extra seating for added comfort. Also, ask about the year, make and model of each car to be sure the company has up-to-date models. Other Considerations If your client or business associate plans to stay a while, then you might ask the limo service if it offers package deals. Some limo services in many major cities offer corporate discounts if you use their service often. Also, ask if the chauffeur will be formal or casual, and if he will provide assistance with luggage. Establish where the limo will be parked and how your guest will be able to recognize the driver or car when he arrives. Be sure to book the limousine service as early as possible. You should reserve it at least a few weeks in advance if possible. This is especially true for the well-established National Limousine companies.

One particular company that has really gone Nationwide and has made an impressive impact in catering to corporate travel needs is Aristocat Transportation, Inc. Located in Warren, MI., Aristocat has sprouted from a single limo in suburban Detroit, and has seen explosive growth across the country providing corporate limousine services and luxury sedans in over 45 major cities across the country. Sue Jarvis, owner and founder of Aristocat Transportation, Inc has restructured her company and developed it as a leader for corporate travel needs, offering its executive customers the same great service that will go with them on their worldwide travels. Aristocat Transportation, Inc provides a full service transportation portfolio that is available whether its clients are heading into work, a business meeting, a time sensitive presentation, or a social networking company function. Their selection of available vehicles are now available to take their customers further as they leave the airport and get ready to make their business deadlines.

It Starts With An Exceptional Staff
Working with an exceptional staff is essential to creating superior customer satisfaction results. By making sure their employees are well trained and have company support and guidance, they bring that same positive atmosphere to their clients. Aristocat’s staff is there to listen to its clients needs and take the time to make sure their busy and often complicated professional business travel needs are well scheduled and executed to their requirements. In today’s hectic corporate environment, this can really go a long way and make the difference by projecting the right corporate image.

Other services offered to customers are road shows and city tours. These services round out the overall package to their clientele and insure they get the comfort that their after work hours are accommodated for as well. Aristocat Transportation, Inc. is a member of the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE), National Limousine Association (NLA), Domestic Estate Managers Association (DEMA), and Metro Detroit Convention Bureau. Sue Jarvis was elected to the National Limousine Association Board of Directors in 2007-it is a 4 year term. Sue attends 4 meetings a year including the ÒDay on the HillÓ in Washington DC. Aristocat Transportation, Inc is also in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. You can learn more about their portfolio of transportation services by visiting AristocatLimo.com .

How long have you been in the business? 22 years

What do you love about it? The people

How long have you been a NACE member? Since February but attending for over 5 years

How has NACE helped you along your journey? The synergy of this group is what attracted me to join. Everyone I have met is so helpful and knowledgeable about business and I have gotten some great advise that has helped my business tremendously-especially Sue Keels, Janet Engelhardt and the entire Royal Park Hotel staff along with Kurt Cologne from Mike Staff -they have been extremely accomodating and helpful. I have also received some new business and referrals already!

What advice would you have for someone looking to hire a company that offers what you do? Get references, do an onsite visit to check out their operation and vehicles, make sure they are insured, go with a bigger company that can accommodate you with another vehicle if there is a problem, shop rates, ask the year of the vehciles, ask how long the chaeuffeurs have been employeed with them, get a signed contract when you agree on the service, make sure they are fully licensed and insured and comfirm the service a few days before.

What are 10 things people might not know about you and/or your company?
1. We offer worldwide transportation
2. I was elected to a 4 year term on the board of directors for the National Limousine Association-it is a lot of work and very rewarding
3. I love boating
4. We offer a fleet of over 70 vehicles
5. We offer our clients a wide range of referrals to our business partners we have developed over the years
6. I’ve written 4 national published articles this year
7. I’m a firm believer of the law of attraction-like attracts like
8. I don’t like peas
9. I love animals
10. I am a Detroit certified woman owned business

Originally from Naceblog.com

“Don’t get caught up in negative attitudes and with negative people,” Jarvis says. “You need to focus on what’s the problem and what’s the solution, and then work on it. Take it day by day. Don’t get caught up watching the news.”

Having the right attitude also means doing what’s necessary to cut costs and grow the business, she says. She’s had to put in long-hour work days, and carefully analyze the company’s fleet, payroll, and business expenses. She was able to cut expenses in phone bills and credit card processing charges, but this took careful analysis of billing statements and discussions with suppliers. It’s also meant selling off cars that haven’t been getting enough use. “If the car’s not pulling its weight and making money, let it go,” she says.

She also recommends looking carefully at what you have in client relationships and seeing how that can grow and bring more revenue. “Take care of what you have,” she says. “It’s much easier to retain current clients. Get in touch with them and ask if other departments need transportation.”

Tapping business relationships is an important part of growing during tough times. Signature Limousine Service is using its reservation agents to make “warm calls” to current clients and let them know they can fulfill transportation needs across the country, and ask if they have any referrals. A-National Limousine Service offers 10% of the transaction cost to concierges, valets, and travel agents who refer business to them.

It’s not all about finding new business. During recessionary economic conditions, building on your network of clients, affiliates, and local businesses is an essential part of growing and staying afloat.

source: http://www.lctmag.com/features/features-story.cfm?id=1492

“We decided to make a name change because using the word “limousine” no longer reflects what we do,” said Sue Jarvis, President and CEO. “Our company may have started in 1987 with one limousine working proms and weddings, but we are now the transportation choice for hundreds of Fortune 500 companies who travel to more than 750 cities around the world.

Aristocat’s new website includes in the site the convenience of online reservations for our corporate clients, a complete listing of our vehicles, service and company information.

“More and more we are finding local service related businesses not utilizing their website as one of the most cost effective forms of attracting and engaging new and current clients,” says Sue Jarvis, Owner of Aristocat Transportation. “We find it critical to not only provide a website that looks good, but one that can be used as part of the business as a tool rather than just a decoration.”

“Most of our clients just give us their complex itinerary and leave the rest to us. They keep coming back, so we know we are efficiently meeting their needs.” The rebrand confirms the company’s commitment to the transportation industry.

“Our corporate staff alone has more than 50 years of combined experience,” adds Jarvis. “We all stay in this business because it feels good to know that we can make our clients day a little bit easier by just executing what we know how to do flawlessly.”

Our mission at Aristocat Transportation is to show our commitment to excellence by providing the most professional, on-time, high quality ground transportation anywhere in the world.

About Aristocat Transportation: Founded in 1987, Aristocat Transportation, Inc. Formerly Aristocat Limousine & Luxury Coach Service, Inc., provides chauffeured services worldwide including individual and corporate groups, large-scale meetings and events, private aviation and corporate road shows.

With 22 years of proven experience, Aristocat Transportation is a leading source for professional ground transportation around the globe. Please visit www.aristocatlimo.com for more information or to make a reservation online. Aristocat Transportation is available 24/7/365; for more information call us at 800-682-1453.

As a seasoned owner-operator who has been in the limousine industry for over 21 years, I have withstood many economically challenging times. The world is an ever-changing place that, in turn, creates ever-changing market conditions. In order to continue to be successful in today’s frenetic workplace I have found that taking a positive approach to how I manage my business is key.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that a positive attitude has to start with me. When I begin my day with a smile and a positive outlook, it tends to be contagious. It’s common sense, really. You are going to react positively to someone who is smiling, as much as you may react negatively to someone who is angry or unhappy. Think about when you talk to a person on the phone whom you know is smiling. It’s obvious even though you can’t see him. Not every day is going to be perfect; there will be days where you are forcing that smile. Bad things will inevitably happen, but keeping the optimism will make it easier for you and your business to weather hard times. It’s not the circumstances that are bringing you down, it’s how you react to the circumstances.

Stabilize Your Foundation
There’s no denying that this has been a tough couple of months-maybe even a year or so-for the industry. Many of us are too well aware of how cutbacks have reduced corporate travel and retail work. Wedding budgets get tighter as the economy contracts. It used to be that limousine service was the first priority for a wedding; now it has become the first budget line item to be cut.

In meeting these challenges, one of the most important things I have found is the importance in taking time with each customer. Now is the time to go back to organic selling, where a salesperson cultivates a relationship with each potential customer. It is important to listen and meet every customer’s needs in all aspects of the business. In the last few years-when business was booming-there was hardly any time to spend with customers. It may take some legwork to build that relationship, but a customer will think of you first when he needs service. Every person is a potential customer. While your competitors are all gloomy and waiting for the phone to ring, your positive attitude will be attracting future customers who will likely choose your service first when things pick up gain. And things will pick up again.

Happy Customers Start With Happy Staff
As trite as it may sound, one of the best things you can say to a staff member is “thank you.” It’s easy to bring your own baggage to work-worries about the mortgage, taxes, vehicle maintenance, payroll, family issues, etc.-and it’s no different for your staff. It’s also very easy for them to get bogged down with thoughts of losing their jobs in this economy. By offering them a simple but sincere thank you, you can set the office tone. They will likely appreciate the acknowledgement of a job well done and will work harder to make your company successful.

I am thankful for all of my staff, including my manager, customer service representatives, and chauffeurs. I let them know on a regular basis how much I appreciate the good jobs that they do. Even more importantly, I encourage them to let our customers know how much we appreciate their business. If I appreciate their efforts and they are happy in their jobs, their attitude will be evident to customers. Who wouldn’t want to do business with a happy company?

We’re All In It Together
With the drastic change in the economy, one of the hardest hit groups has been charities. Food banks are running at an alltime low. Donations to American Red Cross and The Salvation Army are way down. There’s less money to go around as people tighten their belts and pinch pennies. Right now is the worst time for charities that rely on those donations to provide services for the ever-increasing group of marginalized people. It’s easy to give when times are good, but it’s much more important now.

As part of our success I believe in giving back to and being involved in the community. We don’t necessarily have to limit our involvement to a monetary commitment; a commitment of time is just as valuable. Recently we took part in raising awareness throughout the community of a tragedy that occurred close to our area. When 35 families lost their homes in an apartment complex fire, we worked with our clients,  as well as local area news stations  and newspapers, to collect donations for the families to help rebuild their lives. Accidents aren’t going to stop just because the economy is shaky. Your efforts will be appreciated all the more for it, and it will make that smile a little easier every morning.

Negative People Need Not Apply
At the beginning of this article I mentioned that the positive attitude has to start with you. I know it’s not always the most natural thing to do, so I’ve listed some ways to show off your pearly whites and add some sunshine to your step.

There is no shortage of motivational material out there. I encourage everyone to read, listen to CDs and webcasts, talk with friends, and watch TV programs as part of the process to educate your mind and reinforce what you have learned. I love Oprah’s webcast (free on her website) with Eckhart Tolle, which is about living in the moment and dealing with the ego we all have (some more than others!). There are so many choices out there for whatever encouragement you need.

Your thoughts are often displayed on your face, so be aware of what you are thinking. They say we think 60,000 thoughts a day-most of them the same day after day. I’ve found that meditation works miracles because it quiets the mind and helps you learn to “not think” so many negative repetitive thoughts. Yes, there really is a power in positive thinking.

It is important to take care of our bodies the best we can. Exercising and eating right will not only make you feel good about yourself, it will keep you healthy when your body is under tremendous stress. I know we all have our weak spots, so don’t beat yourself up about them.

In business as in our personal lives it is paramount to stay away from negative people as much as we can. You know who they are, and I know it’s not always possible to avoid them. When I am around negative people I try to accept them for how they are, knowing I am not the cause of it. Their negative energy can rub off on us, and their attitudes will only affect you if you let it. It is so important to be a student of positive thinking and never get sucked into someone else’s misery. Accepting that you can’t change them will help as well.

There are countless ways to turn on the happy thoughts and change your day. Try it once, and make it a game. See how long you can keep up the positive attitude and notice how good it will make you, your staff, and your customers feel. Please feel free to e-mail me if I can be of any help to you in your search for inner peace and happiness. You have the choice of how you will spend your day. Why not consider looking at the glass as half full?

Sue Jarvis started Aristocat Transporation in the Detroit area in 1987 with one limousine out of her home. Since then she has acquired four other limousine companies and now represents a fleet of over 70 vehicles. Aristocat Transporation has been a finalist for Operator of the Year and its office manager was voted Employee of the Year by Limousine Digest. She can be reached at (586) 574-0700 or sue@aristocatlimo.com.

Renting a Limo for your Special Event
Renting a limo for a special occasion takes consideration to detail to get just what you want to make that night extra special. The limousine rental business is making a comeback and special events rental is a big part of the upswing in the market.

What used to be a status symbol for special events, like proms, birthdays and bachelor/ bachelorette parties is now seen as a safety issue for people under 21 years old. A ten-year high in the prom rental business is credited to the “get tough” drinking and driving laws in the state of Michigan.

What You Show Know

The biggest error you could make when shopping for a limousine for your special event is to search solely on price alone. In the limousine industry, there are many variances of quality and price. Many times a cheaper price will result in a biggest risk for you and your friends. Most customers would not choose a restaurant based on price, yet many shop for limousine service in this way.

When shopping based on price, don’t expect five-star quality service. Shopping based on price leaves you frustrated and disappointed with the experience, and you take a chance on your special event being ruined. Old poorly maintained and dirty vehicles, unprofessional chauffeurs and the chance of being late are just a few examples of “Best price” shopping. The lower the price, the more risk you assume with your transportation plans.

What You Should Check Out For

• All limousines are required to carry commercial insurance and proper permits.
• Ask to see these papers. Companies who belong to industry associations usually must abide by special insurance regulations and service rules.
• Reputable associations include the National Limousine Association (NLA) and the local livery association.
• Ask for a copy of your contract and get everything in writing. Make sure your contract covers the exact type of vehicle you rented, along with a hourly rental time, travel distance, specific directions to your home and all your locations traveling, tipping, minimum rental time, and number of passengers.
• You still have to pay for the limo while you attend the event, and those hours needed to be included in your rental agreement or you might get stuck with finding a way home from the special event.
• Minimum booking times are usually four hours and can extend to eight hours during peak seasons, such as your event time.
• Check to see when your rental charges begin. This will vary with each company and location. Most companies begin rental charges at your designated pick up time, at your pick up location. Some companies begin rental charges on a gargage to gargage basis and charge “travel time”. Get in writing specially how they charge.
• Underage drinking is never allowed under any circumstances.
• Yes you do have to tip the chauffeur. The standard tip is 20% of the total fare. IF you feel your chauffeur has performed exceedingly well, you can tip more.

Limousine Service Rental Agreements

• If you’re under 21, take an adult with you or bring home the agreement to discuss it with your parents. Like renting any vehicle, it will require a major credit card to process your application either on line or in person.
• The vehicle will not be reserved until the signed contract has been received. We encourage you to keep all copies of all contracts.

What Could Happen When Shopping For Limousine Based On Price

• Your limousine does not show up and you miss your special event.
• You don’t get the model or color that you ordered.
• You don’t get the model or color that you ordered.
• Your chauffeur is unprofessional.
• Your limousine service is involved in an accident and does not have proper insurance to conver the damages sustained by you and your guest.
• Your limousine breaks down during the rental time and you will have to call someone to come and get you.

To make your perfect evening more perfect, it’s important to hire the right limousine service. So why not check out Aristocat Transporation & Luxury Coach, the luxury ground transportation of the Detroit Metro area that provides excellent service from your driveway to the runway or anywhere you need to go. We are one of the fastest growing, most customer-focused, chauffeur-driven licensed luxury sedan companies in Detroit and surrounding suburbs. Established in 1987, we have been providing transportation to satisfied clients for over 21 years.

The National Limousine Association has over 2,400 members worldwide and is the largest limousine association in the world.

Ms. Jarvis is elected to represent the central region of the United States for the 2008-2011 term. Her 21 years of experience in the ground transportation industry will be a valuable asset to the National Limousine Association members.

Ms. Jarvis founded her company in 1987 with just one stretch limousine and a small operation based out of her home. Since then Aristocat has grown to become one of the most well-respected and trusted companies in Michigan serving the needs of corporate, individual and special event management.

“In today’s industry I see operators facing decisions daily in an ever changing business landscape. I want to see that all operators have the opportunity to obtain knowledge and skills that will lead to their success” said Sue.

Some of the issues facing the industry are: airport regulations, taxes, high cost of gasoline, proper chauffeur training,company regulations, licensing and many more.

With her knowledge, education and leadership skills Ms. Jarvis will play an active roll on a local and nationwide level to address these issues.

Aristocat Transporation & Luxury Coach is one of Metro Detroits leaders in professionally chauffeured ground transportation. Based in Warren, Michigan the company represents a fleet of over 70 vehicles. For additional information contact us at our offices (586) 574-0700.

Owners often have to be self-motivating even when things get rough. Here are some suggestions to keep a positive focus.

AS BUSINESS OWNERS WE ARE CONSTANTLY MOTIVATING OUR EMPLOYEES. How do we motivate ourselves? In these economic times it is more important than ever to find effective ways to be our own best motivator. Each of us is inspired differently, but the important thing is to try not to be discouraged.

One of the quickest ways to motivate yourself is through a strong network. You may already have many friends and trusted peers, but you can always meet new ones at trade shows, through other affiliates, networking events, business groups, and much more. Experimenting with a successful networking association can also be motivational—there is no obligation to join if you don’t like the group. Keep looking for one that you connect with, and share ideas while actively listening as well.

Believe it or not, the slower months can be productive for an owner. Take advantage of the slowdown by marketing and doing things you know need to be done—keep working and don’t get lazy. Staying in shape and eating right are huge motivators. When we feel good we are much more on top of our game. It’s easy to eat unhealthily or not get enough sleep at times like this, but you will feel so much better if you feed your body what it needs.

Motivation must also come from within, and being a student of life is a great motivator. I know that many people complain that they don’t have the time, but it’s so important to take that time out and recharge. It is often required that you multitask in many different ways throughout your workday, but it’s equally important to give your mind a rest and focus on something else. Reading books, listening to CDs, watching inspirational DVDs, or viewing the endless educational material available on the Internet—it is all good. You never know where the next best idea may come from.

Being a company owner is often motivation enough to keep operators forward thinking and focused. This economic crisis, however, has dampened the spirits of many of us. Take some time to clear your own mind and reflect on why you joined the industry. It’s easy to stray from your goals when you feel overwhelmed. Surround yourself with strong, smart people who share your goals. Talking things through with them can often inspire an idea or re-motivate you in ways you never thought. If you don’t motivate yourself, no one will do it for you.

While writing this article I talked to many fellow business owners and found much motivation for myself in their stories. Here is some of what they shared.

Diane Forgy, Overland Limousine Service, Overland Park, Kansas:
“Personally I like to think my work ethic, competitiveness, and survival instincts keep me motivated and focused during challenging times. If you only focus on the negative that is all that will manifest. My motivation right now is protecting what we have built, finding opportunities amongst the rubble, and coming out of this smarter and better positioned than ever before. There is always a lesson to learn from the challenges that life throws us. There will be disappointments. We will make our share of mistakes but we will learn from them.”

George Jacobs, Windy City Limousine, Chicago, Illinois:
“I am self motivated. I remind myself that I do not have to be in this industry, that I chose to be in this industry. I am here because I love the people and the industry itself. I set what seems to be unreachable goals and have so much fun attempting to reach them. The trick is to always have some fun along with all the hard work. I am quoting a $1 million RFP for a government agency. I told her I could use a 40-passenger bus on one part of it. She wrote back and said, ‘I thought they were 39-passenger buses?’ So I told her the last of the 40 to arrive had to drive. If I ever stop having fun, I will be gone.”

Barbara Curtis, Two Step Limousine, Denver, Colorado:
“As a woman operator, I have a tendency to be an event planner. This works on my side with our customers. I’m always looking for fresh ideas that I can add to someone’s event, and I’m motivated when a client says ‘What a great idea. Let’s do that.’”

Sue Jarvis started Aristocat Transportation in the Detroit area in 1987 with one limousine out of her home. Since then she has acquired four other limousine companies and now represents a fleet of over 70 vehicles. Aristocat Transportation has been a finalist for Operator of the Year and its office manager was voted Employee of the Year by Limo Digest. She can be reached at (586) 574-0700 or sue@aristocatlimo.com.