Comments on: Do Guarantees Even Matter To Customers Any More?

By: Stone Payton

Stone Payton — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 06:25:11 +0000

“HOLLOW” I did see the commercial — and that’s EXACTLY how it hit me . . . hollow, and unremarkable.

I don’t know what GM should do — but whatever it is, I don’t want to get a bill for it. I do think you’re “spot on” with this idea of engaging people in the conversation though. As disillusioned w/ GM as so many are right now, Americans still like the underdog and a strong comeback . . . particularly if we feel like we had even some small part in making it happen — with IDEAS though (at least for me) . . . Stay outta my wallet till you get your act together !!!

By: Mike Schinkel

Mike Schinkel — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:27:34 +0000

Why do I want a guarantee for a product that I would never purchase anyway? GM’s cars have always felt to me like they are of shoddy quality when compared to Toyota or any of the Japanese or European brands. (They are no worse that Ford or Chrysler, but hey!)

If GM wants to regain the market lead they need to put people who are passionate about cars in charge of designing and building fantastic cars instead of letting the bean counters get in the way. Sorry, but a guarantee isn’t going to get me to purchase something I don’t want anyway.

By: Todd Schnick

Todd Schnick — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:10:38 +0000

Yeah, I agree Steven. Perhaps because I am frustrated with GM, this tactics rings hollow. But…it could be the start of a comeback if they can start producing quality vehicles AND stop being a burden to the taxpayer.

I hope they succeed…

By: Steven Winokur

Steven Winokur — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:06:54 +0000

I couldn’t agree more that GM should be doing more to engage the marketplace. The guarantee in their case is an interesting tactic I think…

I did not see the commercial so I don’t know how it comes across. If it comes across as a desperate act to gain sales, then obviously it won’t be successful. However, if they can pull it off like with the attitude of “our cars are great. So great we’re willing to offer you a guarantee.”

Buying a car is much riskier than buying a hamburger. If a place that says they’ll give you your money back if you don’t like the food, then I’m not sure the guarantee has much weight. However, with a car, people may view the risk of buying a GM too great and stick with that they know. But, if they can return it if it doesn’t meet their expectations, they might be willing to try it.

So bottom line – if this is the extent of their new strategy, they’re in trouble. If this is a part of it, perhaps it might help.