The theory of banking
A nice ad by BBH London:
Helping business turn the corner
It's important to remain upbeat in a downturn. It's a chance to re-evaluate, reinvigorate and even thrive. At Barclays Corporate, we're helping thousands of businesses prepare for a brighter future.
To find out how we can help, call 0800 014 1921 or visit www.barclaysturningthecorner.com
The practice of banking
I needed a new computer and decided a business loan might be the way forward. I rang my business account manager and found myself in a call centre queue. After a matter of minutes, I spoke to a nice young man. He asked me lots of detailed questions about my business and took me through a number of procedures, during which he tried to sell me credit checking services, incapacity insurance and data back-up facilities. After an hour we got to the nitty gritty, when he revealed that the (already eye-watering) interest rate would be topped up by a 'loan arrangement fee' of £250 which, on a loan of £2,000, added a mere 12.5% to the total. In order to discover whether I was to be permitted to enjoy the benefits of his employer's generosity, all I had to do was complete a paper application form and send proof of my house ownership (my mortgage is with the same bank). At this point (an hour and a quarter into the call), we were cut off.
Inexplicably I called back. I suppose I thought it would be rude not to say goodbye. I spoke to a nice young woman who, while trying to trace the nice young man, attempted to sell me the same three items. Finally I was reunited with the nice young man, who clicked a few more screens then sent me the form, which I put straight in the recycling.
I bought the computer on a credit card issued by another bank.
