Something has changed. Slowly over time or quite quickly overnight, we’re not sure. But there is definitely something different. A switch from relational-based service to one purely motivated by cost.

Absolutely, cost is an important factor in the decision-making process. Everyone likes to shop around for the best price, especially right now. But was it always like this? Maybe to a degree it was, but, it’s been our experience that no, it was not always like this.

Growing up, we had a mechanic. When we had car troubles, that’s who we took it to. No question. Why? Because that’s who we’d always gone to. He was a good mechanic. He was honest. He was thorough. He made an effort to get to know us. He knew our names and our cars and our churches and our families. Was he the cheapest? Probably not. But he was purposely relational and good at what he did (that’s important too), so it was worth it to us to pay for him.

At this moment in time, when everyone is looking for the cheapest or the quickest bargain, there is one question you have to ask yourself:

Do I feel lucky?

What is the job worth to you?

Or if you are the company offering your service:

What do you have to offer that is different than everyone else?

If all you have to offer is the cheapest, you’re going to eventually be undercut and you’re going to lose business. If all you do is buy the cheapest, chances are you’ll have to buy more often.

What would you pay for peace of mind? It’s not a trick question.