Hi, once again, all my friends, family, foes, fiends, and all you funky folks.
If you are in a sales position at all, you have heard this old chestnut. But — it’s real, raw, and absolutely true. If you’ve ever bought or sold anything (and who hasn’t?), you’ve probably heard this old saying: “Buyers are liars, and sellers are worse.” At every car dealership I have ever worked in,I have heard this old plum.
Now, before anyone gets their feathers ruffled, let me clarify — this isn’t about calling everyone dishonest. It’s about recognizing the games people play in transactions, whether intentional or not. Buyers might stretch the truth just a bit,(yeah, right) to get a better deal. Sellers might oversell to close the sale, (duh, happens all the time). It’s human nature, and it does stink.
But here’s the good news: You can navigate these headwaters like a pro — without burning any important bridges or losing your cool or professionalism.
Why Buyers “Lie” (And How to Handle It)
Buyers fib for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes it’s harmless posturing; other times, it’s strategic negotiation. Here are some common buyer “lies” and how to work around them:
