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Verizon Directories deceptive billing bait & switch tactics ripoff DFW Airport Texas
A Verizon Directory Sales Rep. approached me with a sales pitch for Phonebook Advertising. I initially said no because of the cost factor but was quickly told that the costs was relatively inexpensive. After getting imformation about our restaurant and a copy of our menus', the Sales Rep. returned a couple of days later with a proposal. The proposal was an ad/listing in the Verizon Directory and the listing came with a "free" website. The cost of the project that was explained to me was $385, at which I quickly agreed to and signed for. I bit on the bait and according to the "signed" agreement, my company is now liable for over $11,000 for the annual contract.
My complaint is this, the Sales Rep. quoted me a bill for $385 and in good faith, I signed the agreement. Unfortunately, had I read the final agreement, I would have seen the "annual contract" that was never expressed or explained. Needless to say, this practice is very deceptive and I can't understand how a big company like Verizon can continue to do this to other small companies.
Al
Carson City, Nevada
1 Updates & Rebuttals
Robert
Sztaunton,Virginia,
U.S.A.
A Small Business Guide to Directory Advertising!
#2Consumer Comment
Tue, July 01, 2003
Dear Al,
The rep SHOULD have given YOU a menu... of affordable options for a small business!
Unfortunately the contract gives them legal claim on a lot of your money unless you have to resort to bankrupcy. I think I would write to the Verizon management and become a real pain to them (politely, of course). Let them know that this rep is misrepresenting the contracts!
Most small businesses benefit most from straight listings (usually the FREE one) in the markets they serve. Your advertising budget is better spent on TARGETED marketing such as specials in the newspaper restaurant or entertainment section.
I would NEVER buy large directory advertising without the advice of a marketing professional (and that rep of yours does not qualify in my book). The money spent on a comprehensive marketing stategy is a great value compared to getting stuck with the bill for large ads in the phone book.