Wrapping up our top 10 list of tool and equipment buying tips, here are my final 3 suggestions.
3. Let yourself be sold. In other words, don’t get so caught up in the possible pitfalls of making a bad decision that you miss out on a quality product that can truly make your life easier. After you’ve researched the product and seller, as well as tried the unit out, listen to the sales pitch. If it sounds good and meshes with your needs ...
2. Pull the trigger. This is pretty self-explanatory. The time has come to make your purchase. You’ve done the necessary due diligence, now simply relax in knowing you’ve taken the proper steps towards a positive purchasing experience.
1. Re-evaluate. Did the product work as promised? Did the seller follow through when it came to services, repairs, warranties, etc.? Reviewing these elements of the purchase can help direct further decisions in terms of brand, application and choice of seller.
For some reason the famous quote by Spanish author George Santayana comes to mind: “Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it.” Just like at any other point in your career, use what you’ve learned when facing a similar situation the next time.
So just to review:
10. Know your need.
9. Do your homework.
8. Be demanding.
7. Examine service after the sale.
6. Get a closer look.
5. Kick the tires.
4. Compare and contrast.
3. Let yourself be sold.
2. Pull the trigger.
1. Re-evaluate.
While these steps can’t guarantee that every buy will be the perfect fit for you and your shop, they can remove some of the question marks, hesitancy and buyer’s remorse that stem from making uninformed decisions based more on impulse buying than true needs.
Understanding the difference between need and want can help separate the profitable, pleasurable purchases from the painful.
