Consequently, I find myself forced to deal with smaller companies.

"When you deal with big companies," he said, "it's hard to find out something from management that's not already known on Wall Street."

By and large, in travel sites you are dealing with established companies, not individuals, which can increase confidence.

But you don't notice it much when you deal with companies.

If possible, always pay by credit card when dealing with mail-order companies.

But analysts say mass merchants want to deal with companies that have diversified lines.

All of us want to deal with individuals and companies we can trust.

I prefer to deal only with individuals or companies who can actually show me the works of art.

And their analysts' reports often deal with companies that are also investment banking customers - or may be.

Some customers don't just prefer to deal with responsible companies, but insist on it.