Another trick of the salesman is when they are asked a direct question, rather than answer it they make a joke about of the question.
For instance:
Q: Mr. Prop firm representative, what percentage of the people make money on trades at your firm?
A: A lot of people make money on every trade. The winner makes money, the brokerage firms clearing the trade makes money, and of course we make money on commissions.....hahahahahah.
By getting the person asking the question to laugh or become misdirected, or begin to doubt the validity of the question or whether he has the right to ask the question, the salesman accomplishes 2 things.
Number one, he didn't answer the question.
Number two, he has taken control of the situation and will then redirect the potential buyer to a different top by a redirect question, or hope the question simply goes away.
The key when dealing with this type of salesman/marketeer is to not let them off of the hook. No matter how much charm they try to turn on to dodge an issue, stay focused and keep to the topic at hand.
Either ask them the exact same question again, or ask they why they didn't answer the question. This puts them back on the defensive, and puts you back in control of the process, which is the antithesis of what they want to happen in the game they are playing.
For those who get easily distracted by the manipulative games of a salesman, always write down your questions on paper before asking them, and make sure you write down the answer the salesman gives you to the question. Never, never make a decision with the salesman having an involvement in the decision making process. Step away from the sales presentation and go somewhere else to make a decision, and if possible consult an objective party to help you reach a clear decision. This helps to keep you on track. If you don't get simple direct and verifiable answers to your questions---walk away while you have a chance.
Never forget you are in control of the process until you relinquish that control to a salesman.
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