Dealers - when does the bad press get too much?

[paddyhasneeds]

I was just reading this: http://www.defender2.net/forum/topic8493-75.html

Now I can't help but think that if I was the dealer principle I'd be thinking to myself "Hold on a minute, I want a happy customer here, if we sort this chap out it won't cost much and we'll look good", but no, the first recourse is the threat of legal.

Two sides to every story and all that, but I'm curious if the view amongst dealers is simply that we are geeks and are very much in the minority and have no impact upon their business, or are some now starting to wise up, especially with vehicle that tend to have a more active user base?

[redgriff500]

Haven't read that but I know several in the trade

If you specialise you have to be aware that there are a few customers in the online community.

If you don't then it won't matter much.

However it frequently boils down to attitude - if you're pleasant you tend to get further, if you make ultimations, many won't back down no matter what.

[POORCARDEALER]

Dont know of anyone watched the Tv programme regarding the trip advisor website the other night...some seriel moaners and absolute keyboard warriors etc etc....You just cant run your business worrying about the odd negative comment on the internet, particually when you sell something as unpredictable as a motor car

[cheadle hulme]

Some really don't care what is said about them online. Their business model relies on a certain level of ignorance. Its only when the authorities step in that anything changes, and then only by the bare minimum.

http://www.oft.gov.uk/news-and-updates/press/2011/...

[Gizmo!]

You can't worry about every little moaner.

But you should make the effort to resolve the issue - by normal policy - before threatening lawyers.

[Classic Grad 98]

I'd say two thirds of people I advise to buy privately refuse to even consider it point blank and insist on going to a trader. I don't think they're in major risk of scaring all their customers off.

[POORCARDEALER]

cheadle hulme said:

Some really don't care what is said about them online. Their business model relies on a certain level of ignorance. Its only when the authorities step in that anything changes, and then only by the bare minimum.

http://www.oft.gov.uk/news-and-updates/press/2011/...

Disgusting company, they have had the OFT investigate WBAC as well, which is them.