by Donna Marie Gray

Created on: May 02, 2010

Isn't it quite a telling picture when we find ourselves asking this question? We could be asking if manners are necessary when shopping, or if it's okay to steal because prices are too high and an item is needed.

Obviously, in the business world, there has been a long standing mantra to cover all situations in which someone is selling and someone is buying. Let me refresh your memory... "The customer is always right."

Perhaps when that statement came into being the customer may not have been as knowledgeable as they are today. However, the statement is as true today as it ever was simply because it is difficult to convince a customer that some of the outrageous claims a company makes are truthful.

It may be easier to detect dishonesty when we are purchasing goods, but there is just as much untruths in purchasing services. We just have to remember to read the fine print closely. If you have ever read the fine print for any product or service, it amounts to the business disavowing any responsibility for anything that goes wrong.

A few examples that may be useful and enlightening: Do you have home owner's Insurance? Have you added items to your home insurance? Maybe you purchased a boat, acquired some expensive jewelry, or simply installed a pool on your property and added coverage. Have you really gone over all of the fine print that accompanied the additions to your home owner insurance? Take a bit of time, go over your coverage with a fine tooth comb. Surprise!

The fact that there is a great deal of false advertising and outright scams is enough to make any consumer be super aware when buying anything. If a company has to lie to keep their business going, obviously they are not trustworthy. Once their customer base goes elsewhere, they will have to close their doors. Thus, in today’s world, the consumer has become much more informed which makes it more difficult for a business to lie.

When you consider the whole picture, it has become difficult to trust your bank, your insurance company, your investment broker, the company you work for, and the list goes on. We are dealing with people who are only interested in their bottom line (profit) and will resort to dishonest tactics to achieve that. We must always be vigilant and read the small print on any contract we enter into for services or when purchasing big ticket items.

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