Consuela Velasquez is a receptionist for a group of seven physicians. As she controls the calendars for the physicians, any sales representatives from pharmaceutical companies wanting to call on the physicians have to go through Consuela. As a result, it is very important for sales reps to cultivate a good relationship with her. In the buying center, Consuela would be best described as a:
a. buyer.
b. user.
c. influencer.
d. gatekeeper.
e. decider.
Answer: d. gatekeeper.