Three for Thursday 10.14.2021
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
Are you a good listener? Allowing someone to tell their story, uninterrupted is one of the surest ways of solving a problem. First, people who are upset want to be heard. Second, the act of being heard by an inviting face or voice usually decreases tension. When the listener responds with an encouraging affirmation, like "thank you for sharing that," you're often fifty percent down the road to a resolution. Too many businesses overlook the importance of phone etiquette. You might have the best product in the world, but if your delivery system does not include a good listener, it can destroy the customer's experience. TrustDALE companies know this, and many have attended our workshop on taking and processing calls. If you ever have a bad listening experience with a TrustDALE certified company, please let us know. We'll listen.
Watch this Investigation
Today's investigation today is Dealership oil change. Curtis smelled a skunk, and he was right Watch, because this could happen to you!
Ask Dale
Today's Ask Dale question comes from Tim, who wants to know my thoughts on hiring a mobile mechanic. Click the video for the answer.
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson is on determining if you should allow a contractor into your home.
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Uninvited door canvasing is risky.
Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff?Again, what appears to be a great deal does not mean you should allow them in.
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. People who can't be found have a reason they don't want to be found.
Define - Your deal by comparing Product, Offer and Price. Multiple estimates help you arrive at a good decision but see my advice below on whether it's a safe decision.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract, and an Effective Guarantee. Contractors who produce thorough and understandable documents are most likely also thorough in background checking employees they send to your home.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. Rude, obnoxious behavior usually finds its way into a review. Look for patterns!
Legitimize - your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. Most important step. Don't just ask if the company "background checks," ask if they "background decline." You also have the right to know the name or names of people coming to your home beforehand if you choose to check them out yourself.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS