Will you do it for your cousin?

@tamirs (1807)
Philippines
October 26, 2011 10:55am CST
My cousin talked to me this morning asking me to design, estimate and build a two-storey residential building for her.Because she saw all the projects i had before she is so competent that i can make her a nice and well built but budgeted house. Since i quit working as an engineer a month ago i told her i will refer her to my architect/builder friend to do what she wants me to do but she refuses.She says contractors always sacrifice the safety of the owner to earn.She is also aware that my salary will cost her too much if i will be the one doing her house. Thinking of the salary i am getting if i will accept the job,i am having second thought but i am afraid that it will eat most of my time again because the site is almost two driving hours away from our house. What do you suggest i do?
1 person likes this
8 responses
@saphrina (31552)
• South Africa
26 Oct 11
Consider it at least sweetie. She trust you. This will help build your reputation. I personally think you should do it.
@tamirs (1807)
• Philippines
26 Oct 11
its really hard to think when family is concern.. I also fear that i might like to go back to working again if i will grab this one.
@saphrina (31552)
• South Africa
26 Oct 11
Work as a private contractor sweetie. You are obviously good at what your doing. Don't let that go to waste.
• United States
26 Oct 11
I think since she's family, and she's willing to pay you, then you should do it. Imagine how special you'll feel when her and her family are moved into a nice home that will keep them safe that you built entirely for them! You would feel so great about what a wonderful thing you've provided them with. I think it'd be great for both her family, and you as well...Just for the simple fact that the feeling you get when providing someone with something they truly need is one of the best feelings in the world.
@tamirs (1807)
• Philippines
26 Oct 11
you are such a sweet talker,makes me want to do it..but i am afraid my working for her will cost her a lot.
@jaiho2009 (39142)
• Philippines
26 Oct 11
She is your cousin and she trusted you why not give her the same favor. You do not need to check the site everyday aint, as long as there is a supervisor. I suggest that you should grant her request.
@hanuma34 (819)
• India
26 Oct 11
You said you quit working. I guess you must be having free time to take up some assignment in the line of your competence. It is my considered opinion that you should take up the assignment, particularly when your cousin relies on your ability. Please do not hesitate and undertake the project for two reasons. Firstly you will be helping your cousin. Secondly you will be able to earn using your spare time, as you have quit your job. If you feel you will be charging your cousin heavily based on your salary, you might give her some concession. After all she is your cousin!
@louievill (28851)
• Philippines
26 Oct 11
Being Filipino, I can understand your situation, especially when it's relatives who asks us for favors, personally for me, I feel in favor of doing it especially if there is nothing to do right now. The site is quite far, but is it necessary for you to be there always? I think after doing the plan you can also assign as overseer or something. Like the other post, it might open a career for you to head a company instead of just being employed especially when other people see your creation and you get referred by who else but your own relative. Anyway at the end I think it will still be you who has to make the decision, good luck
27 Oct 11
i think if you feel not to do it then don't do it because for me if you have to do a thing you should be inspired or you like it so you can give your best shot to your project,,,,:)
@ravisivan (14079)
• India
26 Oct 11
In case you are not employed now and can spend time--I suggest you accept the assignment on terms agreeable for both of you and do it with full involvement. Think of a situation that you may get employed after a few months and how will that work be continued. This from that angle also and then accept/reject.
• India
26 Oct 11
It depends on you. If you think that refusing to take the position will not damage your relationship with her then you should say no, but if your cousin and you share a good and special relationship, then you should think about this. Well, i know it is difficult to say no, but if this interfere with your work then refuse this.