Should you patronize your place of employment, even if the competition is much cheaper?

Question

All the time? Some of the time? Not at all?
What do you do?

Answer 1

It all depends on the situation. If I worked for a large retail store and the competition was much cheaper (even after discounts), then I would definitely not worry much about buying from the competitor. These large chains are going to make it regardless, they know the competition's specials, and if they choose to have higher prices for an item, I wouldn't feel a bit guilty about hopping over to the other store. And the store shouldn't hold it against you, either.

However, if I worked for a smaller business or one that catered to specific markets, the decision might be a bit higher. Am I paying more for a higher quality of merchandise at the store where I work? Will my employer notice that I'm frequenting another location for items that we sell? These are all things to be taken into consideration. If you would be paying more for a higher quality of merchandise at the store where you work, then perhaps if you're questioned about your purchases you could let your employer know that you really appreciate the quality of what you're selling, but it's a bit out of your budget...

As a general answer, I would say that I would patronize my place of employment some of the time.

Answer 2

I personally shop at places I like for various other reasons as well, not just price. Sometimes I AM willing to shop at a store with higher prices if it means quality customer service and better selection. I feel like I have a much stronger voice with my wallet than I do with my voting ballots, so I don't always go with who has the cheapest prices. If a place is cheap but treats its customers and employees like crap, I don't want to continue to support that way of thinking by shopping there. So in that respect, I don't think it would be difficult to shop at your own place of employment if you felt the company was a good strong company with good values. However, there ARE times when convenience, availability, and price come into play- and then I don't think it's a biggie to shop somewhere else.

Answer 3

This a great question! I think you should try to be loyal some days and frugal on others. Mix it up, but never too openly as this can cause a grudge with those who take it seriously. I personally would do it the way I stated. I dont think I have ever had to make this choice but thats my opinion.

Answer 4

i think it's good business, good will and good karma to take care of the hand that feeds you.

even though other places might be cheaper on the average, your own place of employment frequently offers discounts to entice you. also, it speaks well of your job when its employees shop/eat/drink there. customers observe this, and it makes a statement.

i DO take advantage of the perks offered by my employer. it's convenient and it fosters good will, leading to a happier employee (me!) a worksite where the employees don't punch out and run away is usually a workplace with satisfied and happy workers.

Answer 5

I try to give my patronage to the mom and pop places around the place I live. I learned a valuable lesson once: It was a very cold and rainy night and I needed help with my car... no one came to help except for a local man who owned a garage.

I never forgot the lesson: Buy from people you know and live with in the community.

Answer 6

when i worked for a restaurant i would go where ever i wanted to go. however if I came in for a bite to eat or drinks the boss was always quick to promo my tab so i tended to hang out there. Make yourself clear with your boss that you are not his employee when you are sitting in the establishment after work hours. (the only thing that sucks is: you cant call into work hungover if you drank there the night before)

Answer 7

At the end of the day, you are working to keep yourself alive.And if saving is part of the deal, then I would go to the competition.

Answer 8

You should go to the cheaper place, unless your employer pays you up the gazo for catering to his bizz

Answer 9

Cheaper? Even with employee discount?

From experience, an old axiom comes to mind.
"He whose bread I eat, his praises I sing"

I suppose it depends on how company oriented one may be.
When friends ask where you bought an item, what will you say?

Answer 10

def to the competition hell i used to work for verizon wireless but had a sprint phone bc i got more minutes for a cheaper rate..just cuz you work there does not mean you need to spend your money there