When a vendor that is selling you a product or service refers to you as a “client”, are they really treating you as a client? More importantly, do you feel like a client? To compare, Merriam-Webster offers the following definitions:
CLIENT: a person who engages the professional advice or services of another
CUSTOMER: one that purchases a commodity or service
Maybe, you can see where the lines could get a little blurry. A client could be considered a customer but a customer wouldn’t really be a client. Attorneys definitely understand what their responsibilities are to their clients.
- A client expects confidentiality.
- There is a fiduciary responsibility.
- Avoid conflicts of interest.
I realize these are obvious to you. The point is, when someone calls YOU their “client”, are they adhering to the same standards that you would expect?
- Are you being led to believe that your interests are aligned?
- Is the representative trying to get the best results for you?
- Who is compensating that representative?
If you look at client vs customer on the surface, it could be considered a terminology issue. When digging deeper, it’s more about responsibility and expectations. I have no problem being a “customer”.
I just want it to be clear what the roles are.
As a customer, I still expect to be treated fairly and pay a competitive price, but I also know I have options to shop elsewhere. I get that every one needs to make a buck, I just don’t want to be taken for a ride.
So, when are you the “client” or the “customer”?
Legal Counsel Consulting has the resources to evaluate contracts to assure competitive pricing and prevent oversubscribing.
If there is any way I can help or if you would like to schedule a brief conversation, please feel free to contact me.
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