This kind of ties in with my post about craftmen being thieves,

I explain to all my customers how I bill : I use a basic rate book with the various pay scales for each trade, show them the rate, briefly explain my overhead and profit mark ups and work involved for a particular project. I invite them to ask questions, etc I have been in business for only 4+ years and I am looking to add my 3rd employee. I am booking projects for next May. I feel good about my work and sleep well at night. I have no idea how other contractors in my city or any others work/conduct business but the practice I have developed seems to be working well. Strangely enough I have gotten referrals because, as the customer said, I called back and showed up when I said I would.