In article , ajames54
wrote:

Luke wrote in message
...

SCHNIP

I understand a satisfied customer is essential to a prosperous business
relationship. It's to your benefit to have him riding and enjoying his
bicycle as much as possible. And to that end, the right equipment and
good service are requisite. But at what point do you continue to serve
an obstinate customer knowing that to satisfy his wants is at cross
purposes to serving his needs? Have you patently refused to entertain a
customer's request in order to, in effect, protect him from himself?

luke

It's a wonderful "Catch - 22" situation...

If the customer KNOWS what he needs he or she is often VERY resistant
to any suggestion the they may be wrong. Often either you are calling
them stupid or trying to sell them something different because you
make more money... even if it is totally inappropriate. As an aside
(and no refrence to you or your post) one of the funniest things in
retail is the "expert friend" ... this is the guy who comes along with
the buyer to make sure he gets what he really needs. So you usually
end up with two people who don't know what they are talking about
trying to decide what to buy.

snip

Yeah, I've been a silent witness in shops when that very situation has
arisen. ;-) Shop employees must have the patience of Job.

luke