Comments on: Do Hard Economic Times Justify Sleazy Sales Tactics?

By: Donna

Donna — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 16:09:35 +0000

It has become a “buyer Beware” world. So not sign on the dotted line before you read EVERY word, however long it takes. I recently purchased pnones from verison and the salesman made not mention of the astronomical fees charged. When all was said and done he printed out a mile long receipt which listed all the fees, I am still in a state of shock …. and now am stuck for 2 years.

By: Jonathan - Advanced Life Skills

Jonathan - Advanced Life Skills — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 17:02:42 +0000

The issue of money has a way of revealing the true colors of individuals and businesses. These sleazy practices may always work with some, but consumer intelligence and awareness are rising, while tolerance for such tactics is shrinking. Eventually, they will reap what they sow.

By: Linda

Linda — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 02:00:12 +0000

I’m in retail and I’m fed up with the tactics being used by customers to get discounts. We have a small store and we do our mark ups by formula. I don’t mind customers asking for discounts but we just can’t – we don’t build artificial markups into our stock in order to APPEAR to give a discount at point-of-sale. But this is rarely if ever accepted by the customer. Favourite tricks arre wasting 1 hour of your time before they ask for the discount and lately, abuse. Yes, abuse. This recession is bringing out the worst in people and frankly I’m thinking of getting out of retail altogether

By: Steve

Steve — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 01:38:37 +0000

@Michele,
Come to think of it, that has happened to me quite a bit lately especially at the grocery store. But for some reason, I don’t get as annoyed. Thanks for the stumble!
@Jace
I think that they can get away with it because they are retail giants with huge marketing budgets. What you say about social conditioning is so very true. I’m more inclined to believe that I’m getting a better warranty and/or support from an established company. While it takes extra effort to seek out the mom and pop stores, in general it’s worth it if you can find a hidden gem.
@Stephen
The tactics apparently do work because the numbers and computers say so. I’m just waiting for all of these sleazy methods to backfire one day. All it takes is a new worthy competitor and the customers will flee

By: Hangtownscotty

Hangtownscotty — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 01:15:19 +0000

Nice post! The “quick buck” artists always make money, but long-term loyalty from your customers is earned through integrity and service. Good message.

By: Stephen - Rat Race Trap

Stephen - Rat Race Trap — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:09:40 +0000

I’ve also had similar experiences. Since they are so widespread, I have to think they work in the short-term. Sure some of us may pay more to get more quality service, but most people must not or the market would weed many of these businesses out. Regardless I think the key to long term survival as a brand requires that you develop a band of loyal customers who are willing to pay for quality. At least I hope so.

This was a great article and very timely.

By: Jace

Jace — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 23:59:11 +0000

I think retailers continue to condone shady tactics without fear of losing loyal customers because their tactics just have to suck less or the same as the competition. It’s rare to have a business like the one you mentioned go above and beyond so instead of competing at customer service, they just aim for just above the bottom of the barrel and most people don’t have much choice. I can get shafted at [insert big box retailer #1] or I can get shafted at [insert big box retailer #2]. Unless I want to drive out of my way to go to an independently owned shop and pay more (which like you said, I don’t mind most of the time), I have to choose whether I want high prices and add-ons or pushy downright rude salespeople. We’re so conditioned that this is the status quo, a lot of customers don’t realize they have that choice. Most think that a product from [big box retailer] has to be better/more supported than getting the same thing from Joe’s Electronics down the street right?

By: Michele

Michele — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 20:42:16 +0000

You know, you have to watch your items ringing up at the cash register, too. A lot of times when merchandise is “on sale” you get up to the cash register only to find it rings up for the regular price. If you don’t keep a Hawk’s eye on those prices, you’ll get home and realize how much more you paid when you look at your receipt–if you even look at it. Not everyone takes the time to watch closely because life is busy and hectic. I think businesses take advantage of that at the checkout line.

So sorry for your experiences. It’s a shame they tacked on those hidden phone charges, and asking you to pay extra for a battery and AC adapter?! That’s crazy–and sad. I was taught that the customer is always right–even if they really aren’t, they are because without them you don’t have a job.

Great post, Steve! Gave this one a stumble.

*smiles*
Michele