In today’s fast-paced business world, it is crucial for individuals and companies to carefully read and understand the contracts they sign. Failing to do so can have detrimental effects on both parties involved, leading to misunderstandings, disputes, and financial losses. In this article, we will explore the reasons why reading contracts is essential for the success of any business and how neglecting this crucial step can harm not only the business but also its clients.
Business Frustrations
One of the most frustrating things for a business is when someone agrees to do something but then fails to follow through. When a person signs a contract without first reading it, they may object when something specified in the contract is billed or executed. The company then becomes the villain. And in the end, the company is frequently compelled to work for free or risk displeasing the client. How fair is this? I cannot count the number of contracts I’ve had to compensate for because I didn’t want to risk a negative review or press.
When someone comes to a business for anything, regardless of the service provided, they are paying for time and expertise. If the client had paid attention to what they agreed to when scheduling, they would not object to the company billing them for simply listening and offering advice. When someone disregards advice and their problem persists, the company has failed in some way to perform my duties. Inaccurate. They strictly followed our agreement. The signer did not read the document before signing it.
Let’s look at some real-world examples:
John does not read the terms he accepted multiple times and disregards a phone quote. The company spends two hours with him, and he signs a contract with non-refundable fees in person. John then attempts to obtain a refund three days later on the grounds that they were unaware they would be billed, despite the fact that the terms of service clearly state that time is billable at a specific rate. To appease John, the company must forego a substantial amount of revenue. Consequently, this causes stress within the company and leads to increased hostility. This could be avoided by simply being mindful of one’s agreements.
Kate has signed a contract with certain inclusions, and she now requests additional work. She asserts that she is too busy to review the document she signed. When the time comes for her to be billed, she ultimately fights the bill, causing the company to lose thousands in order to satisfy the client. Although it is entirely within the company’s right to charge her for what she legally consumed,
In each of these instances, the company has every right to charge for time. All due to the failure to read the contract. When one does not read or adhere to other agreements, small businesses are harmed, and animosity is fostered. It kills time and energy when the company has to fight the client on something that they clearly agreed to. It is useless for everyone. Read what one agrees with or does not disagree with when something is implemented.
Consequences and Requirements
Not reading contracts can have serious financial implications. When unexpected charges or fees arise due to contractual obligations, businesses may be forced to bear the additional costs or engage in lengthy and costly legal battles. Furthermore, failing to fulfill contractual obligations can result in reputational damage, negative reviews, and the loss of future business opportunities. It is crucial for both parties to understand and abide by the terms of the contract to maintain trust and ensure a smooth working relationship.
