Who do you support?

I want to talk about what some people do as consumers and just vent for a little bit.  When we are ready to buy something we all want the best price.  Our money is precious and we work hard for it.

But many people have the habit of going to a small business to learn all about the product they want to buy, because the small business expert knows everything about the product and will spend time telling them all about it.   Then, that customer will walk out and go buy it somewhere else because they can save a FEW dollars. They're confident in what they're buying because the small business helped them figure it out.  Well, If we have ever done that....shame on us!

I remember one time this woman came into my store to look for a new vacuum.  She didn't know what to buy and she needed our expertise.  I gladly helped her and showed her a few choices that I thought matched her needs.  Before she left we settled on one that we both thought was a good choice.  She was a little apprehensive though, so I suggested she take the vacuum home and try it.  She did and in bringing it back she exclaimed "I love it, I just have to talk to my husband."  She called me the next day and said "my husband agreed we should buy it, However, my husband went online and we can get it for $20 Dollars cheaper.  Will you match the price?"  I couldn't believe my ears.  After all the time, service, and advice that I rendered her, she wanted me to match the Internet price that was only $20.00 different.  Well, out of mere principal, I said NO.  I reminded her of what I had already done for her and then reminded her of all the things I would do if she purchased it from us.   Guess what?....She bought it online.  She bought a vacuum that she had never known about before she met me.  One that I let her try in her own home for free.  Shame on her for wasting my time and using me!  I was so mad and I have to admit,.... I'm getting a little hot thinking about it now.  Don't worry.....Serenity Now! Serenity Now!.....OK much better.

All I want to say to all of us as consumers is this:  Don't do that!  Either decide you are going to buy something for lowest price or you are willing to consult a local small business and get help with your purchase.  It's OK to ask the small business operator if they are competitive with Internet pricing or ask why you should do business with them instead of going on the Internet.  A good business will have good answers for those questions but, be aware.....you probably will spend a few pennies more, but if you get expert help and end up with the right product, Haven't you actually saved money?  Something to think about.  Let me know what you think.