The phrase suggests a particular style of salesmanship, characterized by aggressive tactics, unsubstantiated claims, and a focus on self-promotion over customer needs. An example might be a dealer who emphasizes deals that appear exceptionally favorable but contain hidden costs or conditions, or who relies heavily on persuasive techniques rather than providing accurate information.
Such an approach, while potentially generating short-term gains, often proves detrimental in the long run. It erodes customer trust, fosters negative perceptions of the business, and increases the likelihood of customer attrition. Historically, this style of salesmanship has been associated with periods of intense competition or economic downturn, where the pressure to achieve sales targets is particularly high. However, research indicates that transparency and ethical practices are more effective in building sustainable customer relationships and long-term profitability.
