The way you treat someone when you have power over them is how they will one day treat you when they have power over you. 

This is my way of saying that your business should help customers even when you have no way of making money out of them. 

We’ve all had situations where we’ve made an enquiry with a business, they’ve told us they don’t stock the product we’re looking for … but then when we’ve asked if they can use their expert knowledge to recommend another provider, they’ve ignored us. 

That’s so infuriating, because they have power over us and they’re treating us with contempt. 

Conversely, we’ve had situations when businesses have thoughtfully recommended other providers. That’s so heartwarming, because we know they have power over us, but they show us respect. 

Be a helpful business rather than an unhelpful business. Because, sooner or later, the tables will turn, and those customers will be looking for a product you stock. 

At that moment, they’ll have power over you, and if you were rude to them before, they’ll take their money elsewhere.