Honesty is the Best Policy

The Truth Shall set you FREE!!! We have all heard this before. Let's look at from a Business Marketing stand point.
Too often as Advertising Sales Reps we let the client tell us what their commercial should look like and what shows they should be in.
When was the last time you had surgery and told the surgeon how they should cut you open?
Why wouldn't you do this??? Because they are a trained professional and they know what they are doing! Unfortunately, in advertising their are too many opinions as to the best way to do things.
As a Business Marketing professional if you let the client dictate the strategy of the commercial it will more than likely fail. And of course it will be your fault.
You are the one who's "butt's on the line", so tell the client what it will take for them to succeed with their marketing. If they choose to go another route, they will then know that it's now their plan. However I have found if you tell the business owner the truth, whether they want to hear it or not, they often choose to take your advice. They will then view you as a Marketing Professional, not just another person selling advertising.

Your homework:
Next time you have to give your advice, Give your professional advice without thinking about "what the client might think is right." You will feel better at the end of the day that you spoke the truth, and usually the client will respect you for it. If they don't you have to decide if that is someone you want to work with!