In continuing this month’s discussion about the value-added proposition, no list would be complete unless we also talked about things that detract from value. What is it that a business does that makes them seem cheap or otherwise lessens their standing in your eyes?
For instance, when I visit an establishment and have occasion to er, use their facilities, if there is no hot water, I am immediately up in arms and pretty grossed out. How cheap do you have to be to not provide hot water? If you’re going to cut corners to save money, do it in a way that is seamless and invisible to the end user, the customer!
What about stores that use the nameless plain paper (or black/pink plastic) bags to pack your goods? Does the owner not care enough to promote their business as that bag is carried around, visible for all the world to see? Of course, this doesn’t bother me as much as the lack of hot water, but it sure makes me think about flea markets and uber-discount shopping. Does such an image project the value you want to impart to your customer? I think not.
If you need to save some coin, and let’s face it, today ‘most every business needs to do so, then do it in ways that the customer won’t find out about it. Kind of goes along with the slogan for a popular deodorant: “never let them see you sweat.” And now, never let them see you cheapen your image!
Have a care. Your image speaks volumes. Personal image and business image. What is yours saying to your adoring public?
What are some other ways you’ve noticed businesses screaming “I’m CHEAP!” at you when you patronize their establishment?
P.S. Pink Passport Society is sprucing up its image! We are working on a better website, rolling out new benefits AND working with some pretty sharper Preferred Providers to really help you out. I am so excited I think we will party for at least a week. If you haven’t done so already, make sure you sign up for our newsletter, Boarding Pass, so you don’t miss any of the updates! In the meantime, you can visit www.pinkpassport.org or http://pinkpassportsociety.com for more information.
