Who qualifies as a Customer?

The qualification of a customer centers around the relationship involved in the exchange of goods or services. A customer is defined as an individual or entity that purchases or receives goods and services from another party. This definition encompasses a wide range of scenarios, including personal consumers and business entities.

The essence of this qualification lies in the transaction aspect—where there is a clear exchange taking place. Whether an individual is buying a coffee or a corporation is procuring office supplies, both are participating in this customer role by receiving something in return for payment or value provided.

In contrast, the other choices reflect roles that do not inherently involve receiving goods or services in the customer sense. An organization that provides services does not qualify as a customer; instead, it is the supplier in the transaction. Similarly, an individual who sells goods is acting in the capacity of a seller, not a customer. Lastly, an employee of a financial institution may interact with customers but does not inherently qualify as one unless they are purchasing goods or services in their personal capacity. Hence, recognizing the nuance of what defines a customer is crucial, and the correct answer emphasizes the transactional relationship involved.