We’ve all experienced those little moments where reality and promises don’t quite line up, especially when dealing with large companies. Whether it’s an advertised start time, delivery update, or service promise, it often feels like these businesses are bending the truth. It’s not just inconvenient – it chips away at trust, and that’s a big deal. This is where freelancers have an opportunity to take on bigger businesses and win. By being more authentic and honest, freelancers can build stronger, more meaningful relationships with their clients. As a freelance Social Media and AI Trainer I know it can be a struggle to compete with larger companies but this is where we can shine. Here are some examples where larger companies fall short, putting it generously, and how freelancers can get ahead.
1. Real Movie Start Time
Large cinemas advertise start times that don’t reflect reality. You arrive early, settle into your seat, and then….you wait. Those trailers and ads stretch the start time to 30 minutes later than advertised. This kind of sly tactic is accepted by cinema-goers, but freelancers can learn from this by always being upfront about timelines and delivering when they say they will. Setting realistic expectations and perhaps exceeding them can make a real difference.
2. Train Boards That Lie
Train companies often mark trains as “Arrived” even when there’s no train in sight. Who knows why? Is this an attempt to make the “percentage of trains arriving on time” look better, or perhaps it’s just poor tech? Whatever the reason, this kind of misleading communication leaves customers frustrated and questioning the accuracy of any information provided. Freelancers, on the other hand, have the chance to build trust by providing accurate, timely updates.
3. Traffic Lights on Food Labels
Food manufacturers use colour-coded labels to make their products look healthier than they really are, by using unrealistic serving sizes. This practice is technically honest but intentionally misleading. Freelancers can stand out by avoiding such deceptive practices – being transparent about pricing, scope, and deliverables helps clients know exactly what to expect.
4. Exaggerated Broadband and 5G Speeds
Broadband and phone companies often promise superfast speeds that don’t always match the reality. Those “up to” figures only apply under ideal conditions. As a freelancer, you have the ability to avoid overpromising. Instead, delivering consistent, reliable work at the agreed or an exceeded standard shows your authenticity and makes you more trustworthy compared to large companies that fail to meet expectations.
5. Phone Battery Promises
Phone manufacturers often promise “all-day battery life” under minimal usage conditions that don’t reflect everyday use. Freelancers can use this as a reminder to be realistic with clients by setting expectations that align with real-world scenarios ensures that clients are never disappointed.
6. “Shipment on Its Way”
Receiving an email that says your shipment is on its way, only to see “awaiting collection by courier” for days, is a common experience with online retailers and their couriers. Freelancers can do better by giving clients realistic timelines and updates. Transparency is key – when clients know where a project stands, they feel respected and informed.
7. The Phantom Delivery Attempt
The dreaded “Our driver missed you” message from a courier, even though you were at home waiting, is another example of couriers failing their customers. As a freelancer, you have direct control over your communication. If something goes wrong, being upfront about it rather than shifting blame onto the customer helps to build your credibility.
8. Subscription Renewal Surprises
Many subscription services, including err this platform, rely on users forgetting about automatic renewals, and they make the cancellation process overly complicated. Freelancers can take the opposite approach – being transparent about pricing, renewal terms, and any ongoing commitments. This kind of honesty and clarity leads to long-term client satisfaction.
9. “Limited Time Offer” Pressure
Big companies often create a false sense of urgency with “limited time offers” or “only a few left in stock” messages, which can be misleading. Freelancers can differentiate themselves by avoiding these pressure tactics. Instead, focusing on quality work and providing genuine reasons why your services are valuable encourages trust without resorting to manipulation.
10. “Your Call Is Important to Us”
Finally, what is possibly the most annoying and deceitful of them all: “Your call is important to us” – while sitting on hold for 30 minutes. It’s a hollow promise that leaves customers feeling undervalued. Freelancers, however, can offer a personal touch by responding promptly to messages and phone calls from clients. Being accessible and responsive is a significant advantage for freelancers over larger companies.
These examples, from minor annoyances to outright lies, highlight why authenticity matters. When businesses bend the truth, they erode customer trust. Freelancers have a unique opportunity to stand out by being transparent and honest, and that authenticity builds strong, lasting relationships with clients.
What do you think? Are these minor inconveniences just part of modern life, or should we expect more honesty from the brands we deal with?
Drop a comment below or get in touch – your message or call is important to me and I will get back to you within a few hours at most.