How to be a jackass
04-04-12, 12:51 PM
#51
dont make me get the belt
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And as for the comments about it being self fulfilling, totally not the case. I used to be a really positive person. This job has made me less in general and made me hate our population in general. Yet I still have fantastic customer service and have been in line for a shift manager position for 2 years now as soon as one of our current ones leave. It's not that people are giving back what they're getting from me. I'm very friendly and helpful to them. It's just that they're d-bags.
If you have become so bitter because some of your customers were rude to you, didn't treat you with the proper respect, or whatever, then you were never a "really positive person" to begin with. What you were was a naive, idealistic noob who became disillusioned because some people said some things or behaved in a way that made you feel bad.
Being a positive person is not contingent upon only having contact with other positive people - if that were so then there would be no such thing. I don't claim to be such a person, but people who are can't be so easily shaken merely by unpleasant social exchanges.
People behave poorly (and we're not talking about violent or destructive behavior here) for all sorts of reasons - perhaps they have to deal with rude customers at their job all day, for instance. Or maybe they're in the midst of some major family/medical/life crisis, and are stressed to the breaking point. And yes, some people are just plain nasty.
My point is this: people are generally emotional, fallable, undisciplined creatures struggling with different issues in their own lives, they didn't just see you and decide, "hey, just for the hell of it I'm going to screw with this guy".
It doesn't necessarily make them good human beings, but it doesn't make them all bastards either.
Last edited by scyclops; 04-04-12 at 12:56 PM.
04-04-12, 01:07 PM
#52
dont make me get the belt
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Guys, let's check the guns at the door and cool off. If you want to do some analysis of each others mental and business states, perhaps take this to foo. The OP has a good thread. Take the review of humanity elsewhere.
And also, do remember, personal attacks don't belong here.
And also, do remember, personal attacks don't belong here.
You know, on second thought, isn't the op a comment on humanity?
Last edited by scyclops; 04-04-12 at 01:24 PM.
04-04-12, 01:39 PM
#53
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Well ... some do just decide to screw with the retail worker, and some people are just that way. They'll beat you down if you let it happen.
What always worked for me, pretty simple really, is to remember that you're really just performing - no different than an actor playing a role. The customer may or may not know that, but it doesn't really matter because they're mostly working off a script to even if they don't realize it. None of the normal business-type interactions feel personal that way. Even when some moron stalks off insulting you, and I've had that happen, you can laugh it off because they are reacting to the role (and don't have a clue about it).
What always worked for me, pretty simple really, is to remember that you're really just performing - no different than an actor playing a role. The customer may or may not know that, but it doesn't really matter because they're mostly working off a script to even if they don't realize it. None of the normal business-type interactions feel personal that way. Even when some moron stalks off insulting you, and I've had that happen, you can laugh it off because they are reacting to the role (and don't have a clue about it).
04-04-12, 02:20 PM
#54
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It's funny...with all my negative feelings for the rude & unpleasant customers, I've never once had a verbal altercation, had a complaint filed, had anyone ask to speak to my manager because of my actions, etc. In fact, I'm so pleasant towards the customers that I was able to politely tell a customer today that there was "no need to be rude" (one of the worst things you can say to an upset person in retail, or really anywhere
), & I said in in such a pleasant & innocent demeanor that he actually apologized & we ended the transaction on friendly terms. I deal with the negativity by venting to others who understand, which is exactly what I was doing here, & what I believe everyone else who can see it from my point of view is doing. Hamilton is exactly right in that we're just acting. I act nicely towards the customers even when I don't feel that way. But eventually those feelings have to come out. It's unhealthy to keep it bottled up & pretend like things don't bother you when they do, but there is a time & place to do so.
I think that was what bothered me the most in this whole discussion, is that people assume that me venting about d-bags on the internet means I'm a poor retail employee & an unpleasant person to interact with. I'm really not, I was just venting on a thread that seemed to be here specifically for the purpose of venting. I've managed to remain one of the most pleasant & positive people at work & my clean record shows that. It really is just a piss poor place to work.
And to get this thread back on topic: MOUNTAIN BIKING! YEAH!! IT'S AWESOME! IT'S THERAPY AFTER DEALING WITH MEAN PEOPLE ALL DAY! WOOOO!
), & I said in in such a pleasant & innocent demeanor that he actually apologized & we ended the transaction on friendly terms. I deal with the negativity by venting to others who understand, which is exactly what I was doing here, & what I believe everyone else who can see it from my point of view is doing. Hamilton is exactly right in that we're just acting. I act nicely towards the customers even when I don't feel that way. But eventually those feelings have to come out. It's unhealthy to keep it bottled up & pretend like things don't bother you when they do, but there is a time & place to do so.I think that was what bothered me the most in this whole discussion, is that people assume that me venting about d-bags on the internet means I'm a poor retail employee & an unpleasant person to interact with. I'm really not, I was just venting on a thread that seemed to be here specifically for the purpose of venting. I've managed to remain one of the most pleasant & positive people at work & my clean record shows that. It really is just a piss poor place to work.
And to get this thread back on topic: MOUNTAIN BIKING! YEAH!! IT'S AWESOME! IT'S THERAPY AFTER DEALING WITH MEAN PEOPLE ALL DAY! WOOOO!
04-04-12, 02:32 PM
#55
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My point is this: people are generally emotional, fallable, undisciplined creatures struggling with different issues in their own lives, they didn't just see you and decide, "hey, just for the hell of it I'm going to screw with this guy".
It doesn't necessarily make them good human beings, but it doesn't make them all bastards either.
It doesn't necessarily make them good human beings, but it doesn't make them all bastards either.
04-04-12, 02:35 PM
#56
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So, you wanna be a jackass bike shop customer? Follow these simple suggestions:
- Say to an employee "hey, what kind of deal can you give me on these? i can get them online for (insert low cheap price).
- Ask for a discount or free stuff, just because you are you and by golly, you deserve it!
- Start off with "i work in a shop" and then ask for a discount
- Ask a bunch of questions, take up lots of time, then leave without buying anything, not even a damn GU, and get your stuff elsewhere. Make sure you get part numbers so you can order online!
- Get upset when you don't get a discount and threaten to never come back.
- Act like you are gonna buy stuff, put stuff on the counter, ask to use the bathroom, then come out of the bathroom and say "i'll come back for that stuff" and leave. (haha, suckers! you really just wanted to use the bathroom! even though they would have let you, it's more fun to do it this way)
- Treat the bike shop like your personal pit crew. Why should they charge you to get your bike running? Just ask them to give you some free chain lube and to tighten up your headset and maybe straighten out your derailleur. It's not really work, any monkey (except you) can do it. Besides, you are trying to get your personal best on the trail, don't they know that?
These are just some of the things you can do. Be creative, remember, the bike shop is there for your enjoyment, and the employees are all filthy rich (you know bike shops make tons of money, way more than the oil and gas industry) and they deserve to be screwed and taken advantage of, and they owe you. You are a cyclist! You don't think Mercx or Pantani had to pay for their stuff, you don't think Danny Macaskill or Gee Atherton have to pay for their stuff, why should you?
- Say to an employee "hey, what kind of deal can you give me on these? i can get them online for (insert low cheap price).
- Ask for a discount or free stuff, just because you are you and by golly, you deserve it!
- Start off with "i work in a shop" and then ask for a discount
- Ask a bunch of questions, take up lots of time, then leave without buying anything, not even a damn GU, and get your stuff elsewhere. Make sure you get part numbers so you can order online!
- Get upset when you don't get a discount and threaten to never come back.
- Act like you are gonna buy stuff, put stuff on the counter, ask to use the bathroom, then come out of the bathroom and say "i'll come back for that stuff" and leave. (haha, suckers! you really just wanted to use the bathroom! even though they would have let you, it's more fun to do it this way)
- Treat the bike shop like your personal pit crew. Why should they charge you to get your bike running? Just ask them to give you some free chain lube and to tighten up your headset and maybe straighten out your derailleur. It's not really work, any monkey (except you) can do it. Besides, you are trying to get your personal best on the trail, don't they know that?
These are just some of the things you can do. Be creative, remember, the bike shop is there for your enjoyment, and the employees are all filthy rich (you know bike shops make tons of money, way more than the oil and gas industry) and they deserve to be screwed and taken advantage of, and they owe you. You are a cyclist! You don't think Mercx or Pantani had to pay for their stuff, you don't think Danny Macaskill or Gee Atherton have to pay for their stuff, why should you?
04-04-12, 02:39 PM
#57
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Wahwahwah - - c'mon, suck it up ya princess.
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04-04-12, 02:43 PM
#58
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^ I agree with you to an extent, but also not. Going to a bike shop isn't like going to Kohls to try on some jeans where no one gives a **** about trying on one of the thousands of articles of clothing there and there are basically just employees to keep things looking clean and keep the racks stocked and you can ask them a question if you can track one down. It's a much smaller shop where the employees are supposed to be knowledgeable, and helpful to each customer, and in a much smaller place with what is supposed to be better personal service. It's kinda like you walking into the smaller shop of a clothes tailor and trying on some of their display coats that they use for fitting measurements just so that you can get your sleeve length and then walking out and going online to buy a knock off suit from China online. You should at least pick up some dress socks while you're there. "My head is protected, my rent is paid, and there is healthy food on [my] table [but screw the bike shop and their time/money]" is soaked with the self-focused attitude that has become "the American way."
The part I understand about what you're saying is the "screw it" attitude if your local shop is that bad. But along with not feeling bad about using them for your fitting needs, maybe you should write the owner an intelligently worded letter letting them know how you feel about it, or ask to speak to the manager and intelligently explain to him/her why you don't spend your money there.
The part I understand about what you're saying is the "screw it" attitude if your local shop is that bad. But along with not feeling bad about using them for your fitting needs, maybe you should write the owner an intelligently worded letter letting them know how you feel about it, or ask to speak to the manager and intelligently explain to him/her why you don't spend your money there.
04-04-12, 02:50 PM
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Most of the responses in support of buying at the LBS are concerned with the person coming in and trying on and then going home and buying on the internet. Not pointing at you (so I removed you from the quote), but the word "savvy" can easily be replaced by sneaky, or immoral, or wrong - take your pick or add to the list.
04-04-12, 02:56 PM
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I buy all my tri-cloths from the shop. The bikes are alot of used parts so to make up for it i use the shop and pay the labor for them to install the stuff. I think it evens out.
04-04-12, 03:09 PM
#61
dont make me get the belt
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My point to the ones who feel "all" or "most" people are bastards/d-bags is that some may be, but you'll be a happier person if you can remember that being miserable is their problem, and learn not to make it yours.
BTW, I was born and raised in St Pete and still live there part of the time. Getting too damn hot for me most of the year though.
Last edited by scyclops; 04-04-12 at 03:21 PM.
04-04-12, 05:38 PM
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Well now I have bigger problems to complain about, like not being able to go to Spokane next week after all. My friend's dad got rid of his last buddy pass of the month last week & I jyst got the dough for the ticket today 
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH LETDOWN OF THE CENTURY!!! Maybe sometime early next semester before it gets too cold. Goshdangdiddlydarnit!
Hey small world, my dad grew up in St Pete & he went to/my brother goes to Stetson School of Law.
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH LETDOWN OF THE CENTURY!!! Maybe sometime early next semester before it gets too cold. Goshdangdiddlydarnit!Hey small world, my dad grew up in St Pete & he went to/my brother goes to Stetson School of Law.
Last edited by samburger; 04-04-12 at 05:41 PM.
04-04-12, 05:48 PM
#63
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That's too bad. When you do get here, we'll get you out for some good riding for sure.
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04-04-12, 08:02 PM
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Yes, its hot. I always say I get tired of the three "h"s - heat, humidity, and hurricanes - then I head north in August to get a break.
04-05-12, 02:24 AM
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I came to Germany first in 2005/2006 with an exchange program, I met my girlfriend (future wife, but don't tell her yet ;P), and ended up coming back. I now study medicine at one of the best medical universities in the world for 104 Euros per semester!! My parents, hard work, and a bit of luck (or whatever), came together to make my current situation possible, but none of it would have ever happened had I decided to stay in Oklahoma. Now I am saving a ton of money by not going to med school in the US, and have a mini mountain to ride on as my backyard =)
Last edited by ShimmerFade; 04-05-12 at 02:31 AM.
04-05-12, 09:25 AM
#66
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i really really like how this thread turned out. it makes me smile.
04-05-12, 09:48 AM
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04-05-12, 09:58 AM
#68
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'Night John-Boy . . . .
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Originally Posted by Mark Twain
"Don't argue with stupid people; they will drag you down to their level and then beat you with experience."
04-07-12, 12:46 AM
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One time I bought a pair of Oury lock-on grips from an online company that also sells on Ebay. Then for some reason all the talk about supporting your LBS I read about every now and then here and elsewhere made me feel a bit guilty. So on a matter of principle, I cancelled my Ebay purchase, and the shop was very gracious to do it. (I still do business with them from time to time.) I then went to the closest LBS that I've frequented in the past for their services. They didn't have the Oury grips in my color but said they could get it for me. It was a few dollars more--no big deal. I was told it would come in a few days or next week (don't remember). It ended up coming in a bit later than expected, and on top of that I paid a bit more. I wasn't very impressed. Many, many years ago when I was relatively new to online shopping, I purchased expensive parts from them. Looking back, I could have saved loads of money if I knew about online prices.
Many of us want to support our LBS, but we also want to be money-wise. I'll purchase some stuff every once in a while from a bike store because it's more convenient or they carry it, but also to establish relations. But shopping online gives me more buying power.
Many of us want to support our LBS, but we also want to be money-wise. I'll purchase some stuff every once in a while from a bike store because it's more convenient or they carry it, but also to establish relations. But shopping online gives me more buying power.
04-08-12, 06:10 AM
#71
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Higher end stuff not so much.
04-08-12, 08:18 AM
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The chain I purchased locally wound being up exactly twice the online price - the most expensive part of the drive train in fact, and I bought a nylon water bottle cage there also, just because I liked the shop owner.
04-08-12, 02:36 PM
#73
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The last closeout deal I saw at my LBS was a Dart 3 fork for $90.
Last edited by samburger; 04-08-12 at 02:48 PM.
04-12-12, 10:25 AM
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Say it isn't so. Generation X is a bunch of pampered, whiny, incompetent, ingrates. I deal with it everyday. Same reason shows like "Insider", "Biggest Loser", "Swamp People", "Fashion Star", and "IceT loves Coco" are on TV. Same reason Obama is in office. The average person is uninformed, ignorant and incapable of correcting themselves. Buy something on the internet and if it is junk or you can't install it then live and learn. Pay a 100% markup at your local LBS because the owner had no business plan when opening and can't manage his inventory or payroll but then feel good about yourself for supporting the local guy. Fine. BTW, if you don't like the internet, move the f*** to China.
04-12-12, 10:34 AM
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Say it isn't so. Generation X is a bunch of pampered, whiny, incompetent, ingrates. I deal with it everyday. Same reason shows like "Insider", "Biggest Loser", "Swamp People", "Fashion Star", and "IceT loves Coco" are on TV. Same reason Obama is in office. The average person is uninformed, ignorant and incapable of correcting themselves. Buy something on the internet and if it is junk or you can't install it then live and learn. Pay a 100% markup at your local LBS because the owner had no business plan when opening and can't manage his inventory or payroll but then feel good about yourself for supporting the local guy. Fine. BTW, if you don't like the internet, move the f*** to China.
Hell of a first post there champ.