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Cates: Paid Referral Arrangements Must Be Transparent to Avoid Damaging Trust

Bill Cates · Borrowed Trust: Why Strangers Wire Money Before They Know You · Apr 28, 2026 · at 6:05

Referral strategist Bill Cates discusses ethics and best practices when receiving financial compensation or commissions for making business introductions.

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“I just think it should be transparent. I think that's the most important thing. Because sometimes when clients or customers, you know, maybe didn't know that you would get compensated and then after the fact they find out you did, it can leave a bad taste in their mouth if it's not handled properly.”

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