Three for Thursday 12.10.2020
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
I have always admired leaders and have always wanted to be a leader, but the pandemic has really put leadership in perspective. I have always heard "leadership is the management of diversity." I suppose that's true, but leadership is also being willing to show up and lead when leading is difficult. I recently spoke with the crew at TrustDALE Certified Stanley Steemer. I told them how impressed I was and am to see them consistently show up for work with a smile on their faces and deliver superior cleaning services in dozens of homes every single day. Are you using these difficult times as an opportunity to lead? I feel TrustDALE's certified services are - and I encourage you to trust them!
Watch this Investigation
Consumer Investigation = Romance scam part 2: Would you give $80,000 to a man you never met who claims to work on an oil rig in the Mediterranean Sea ? Watch, because This Could Happen to You!
Ask Dale
Today's Real Consumer Question is from Andrea: "Dale, I received a letter from an entity that claims to be the IRS. Is this real?"
Todays Lesson on how to be a Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson is on buying jewelry from a private or commercial source (because most people don't know how)!
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Most stores offer financing. A private owner will want cash. Therefore, always have the piece appraised by a reputable source before paying.
Funds - - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? If not, it's likely too good to be true. There's no such thing as 50% off at a store. They use this tactic because it works. Also, private sales are often accompanied by a sob story that's creating your "deal." Get that independent appraisal!
Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he can't be found after he gets your money. Online private vendor jewelry deals are a great place to get ripped off.
Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract and an Effective Guarantee. Many jewelers won't provide refunds but will allow you to trade in and trade up. This means you have to be certain of what you're getting before you buy.
Authenticate - Your deal by requesting References, checking Reviews, and examining government and watchdog reports. Evaluating the reputation of a private or commercial seller is an irreplaceable step in being a savvy consumer.
Legitimize your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background checked. Legit jewelry stores will always meet these criteria. Most private sellers won't. Be wary of brokers claiming to be private sellers.
SCAMMERS BEWARE: SEASONED CONSUMER INVESTIGATOR DALE CARDWELL GIVES READERS A GAME PLAN TO AVOID RIP-OFFS