Three for Thursday 07.09.2020
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
Advertising involves hearing messages that may not be true. Marketing is fulfilling a need and getting customers to spread the word for you. I saw that happen recently when a brand that was not on my radar achieved great marketing. The fast food chain Popeyes broke through and won me as a customer when I kept hearing people brag on their new crispy chicken sandwich. I tried it, and guess what? Popeyes is now in my fast food vocabulary and I'm telling my friends about their chicken sandwich. As my marketing hero Seth Godin says, "Don't find people to buy your things, make better things to share with your people." If you want great products, fair prices and true peace of mind, find it at TrustDALE.com
Watch this Investigation
Rip-off Range - Robo calls. Watch, because this could happen to you!
Ask Dale
What does procrastination mean? July 15th is your tax deadline.
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson on buying a new but promising product:
Fast - Do they want your money NOW?Set a personal limit on the amount of money you're willing pay upfront when you haven't got time to perform some level of research. My limit is generally $50 bucks.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? If not, it's likely too good to be true. On-line offers are often "baited" with below market offers. As you start the purchase process, you often see add-ons. Don't provide your credit card until you have a clear understanding of what the final bill will be.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. Much like the "fast" rule above, have pre-determined amount of money you'll give a stranger you're likely to never see again, like at a flea market.
Define - Products, Offers and Prices. A promising new product might not have competition, so make certain your thoroughly understand its advantages and limitations before you sign.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract and an Effective Guarantee. New products can have bugs. For example, some people will never buy the first model year when it comes to a car. Don't get surprised while negotiating and make certain you're protected in the event the product doesn't perform to the level of the written promise.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking Reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. New innovative products are often not time tested, but if it's "hot," you'll find online reviews. Read those reviews and look for patterns of problems before you commit!
Legitimize your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked.It's really tempting to pay or commit to pay when you're excited about a new product. Don't let your excitement prevent you from determining if the business offering you the shiny new object is licensed and insured. Depending on the amount you're paying, it's a good idea to check the legal status of the seller.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS