Had a lot of this later...

 

Other web design companies picking off our lists of clients and contacting them to offer seo/design services.

 

One company said we were closing down and they were taking over our clients.

 

Had a few frustrated clients call us. We basically had to remove all our best clients from our portfolio as it was becoming so frequent. Not the best way to find new work I'm sure and a dirty trick. We clearly label the footer on each of our clients sites to say we are responsible for seo.

 

What's all that about. I know it's not against the law but surely it's etiquette.

 

Had a few raging phone calls to other company directors.

 

Anyone else experienced this? How would you handle it?

Hey,

I've never experienced this myself but I can understand how frustrating this maybe.

You say it's "not against the law" to poach clients - you're right, it isn't, but, slander is. For one company to say that you're closing down in order to acquire your business is not just a scam but it's could be seen as libel and a misrepresentation - which are both civil offences.

 

If your clients are loyal, you will be fine. Your best bet is to email them all and warn them/let them know that there are poachers after them and to ignore marketing phone calls, or phone calls trying to nab them from you. Outline that these companies (don't name names though) will try ruthless tactics including false statements and will try to offer better details etc. that in reality they probably can't delivery. Also add that you hope they will be remain a loyal customer.

 

This should put you in good stead.