I am not kidding. It is every single day. I own a jewelry store and someone wants me to give them jewelry for this auction, or this person in the hospital, or this benefit. I am getting so discusted with this. Does anyone have a way for me to talk to these people without offending them. Some of them get down right angry when I tell them NO, as if I'm wrong for trying to protect myself. It's so out of hand. Two days ago it was someone with cancer of the brain. Yesterday it was a girl who has it in the eye. The day before that it was the catholic charity. I am absolutely serious. Everyone seems to have their hand out trying to get in my pockets. I've only been open for 2 years, and I am struggling to make my rent in here each month. It's a new business. HELP!
2007-10-27 06:10:11 · 10 answers · asked by pansyskunk 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Small Business
Just say, you're cause is very worthy, however, I have already donated to my favorite charities. Thank them for coming in and move on to a paying customer.
2007-10-27 06:17:04 · answer #1 · answered by Dan H 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
While you can put up no soliciting signs you will be amazed how many people asking for charity don't think it applies to them. So, just tell them what you said here. Let them know that you get a request every single day and can not donate to everyone.
One other thing to do is to tell them to send you a written request through the mail and if you find it like something you want to donate to you will let them know. Have them include any information on the charity and/or web site for you to review. If they are a legitimate charity they will have no problem with this. If they are a scam you will never hear from them. Then when you get the letters you may actually find one or two that you want to help with.
2007-10-27 13:19:38 · answer #2 · answered by OC1999 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There's no need to argue or defend yourself with the people who come in, all you have to do is tell them you donate to local charities already and aren't ready to expand the groups you do give to. Then thank them.
It's a good brush off, and you're under NO obligation to give give give to everyone who comes in.
If they insist, then ask how much of your donation goes to the actual charity, if it's not 90% then it's not going to meet with your approval. If it IS 90% then tell them you'll consider it but you're sorry but you can't do anything at this point.
2007-10-27 19:46:04 · answer #3 · answered by Elaine M 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Neighbor, I know EXACTLY where you're coming from.
I deal with the same thing continuously.
I guess they just think you've got it because you've got this store, or something.
It's gotten so freekin ridiculous, that I just want to laugh in their face. I don't of course.
In my retail business, we've been putting more out than we've been taking in for several months now.
I know they mean well but, it's out of control.
I've just started saying what someone above me said, "We've exceeded our charity budget for this year/month, sorry." . . .
Good luck.
Additional: Someone above me said to post a No Soliciting Sign . . . Those worked once . . . Now people ignore them. I had one on my counter-top, right in front of me, they ignore it.
2007-10-27 13:27:53 · answer #4 · answered by mark623112 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
put up a sign 'no solicitors'
and if they still come in gently mention, you are already giving to your own charity of choice
and don't feel bad, you are doing the right thing, they have to respect you and your business -just like you respect them, it's your right
2007-10-27 20:10:40 · answer #5 · answered by Danielle 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Turn the tables in your favor.
Hold "specials" or "day long" events in the name of that special child....offer a % of every sale to that charity.
send out direct mail...give discounts ...you will make up the differnce in volume, and you will become a gem in the community
2007-10-27 15:34:09 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get a "No Solicitations" sign for your door.
If they're illiterate, simply say "I'm sorry. This store does not allow solicitors."
2007-10-27 13:21:06 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No way to stop the asking.
Tell them nicely but firmly that you have already selected those causes to which you contribute and are unable to contribute to additional ones. Should they ask what your selections are, its not their business.
2007-10-27 13:18:46 · answer #8 · answered by npk 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
post a no solicitations sign and be polite if they come in and ask did they see the sign
2007-10-27 13:19:22 · answer #9 · answered by wendy dive 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Be generous and universe will be generous to u
2007-10-27 13:14:09 · answer #10 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 2⤋