Buyer proves oversensitive on purchase
DEAR MISS MANNERS: While shopping for furniture, I learned that one local store offered a deeper discount off of the manufacturer’s price than another: 25 percent versus 20 percent. The difference on what I was considering buying amounted to about $600.
While at the more expensive store, I asked if they would match the price at the other store. The manager said I would have to present her with written proof of the competitor’s price before she would match it.
I saw this as extremely rude. First and foremost, I was offended that the proprietor didn’t take me at my word.
And even if she wanted to verify my claim, she could have done it easily by making a call to the store.
Although I had been ready to buy from the more expensive store, I changed my mind.
I told my sales associate that I didn’t like being told that I might be lying.
Was I too sensitive, and wrong to be offended?
GENTLE READER: Yes, because, Miss Manners assures you, your honor was not at stake.
This was a professional transaction and it was legitimate for the store to have asked you for proof.
We have all made the societal agreement that bargaining and advertising are held to a looser standard of truth in business.
Otherwise, we would all be calling a certain chicken restaurant a liar if we did not always lick our fingers after eating there.
DEAR MISS MANNERS:
I am a disabled veteran and also receive Social Security disability assistance. I am not employed due to the difficulties of my disabilities.
When meeting new people, I inevitably get the “Where do you work?” question. I often say that I don’t, that I am taking a break or that I am retired.
My dilemma is that I wish to be honest; however, I value my privacy and don’t wish to discuss my disabilities. Is it appropriate to just tell people that I am retired?
GENTLE READER: “I am a retired veteran.” At which point their reflex will kick in to thank you for your service and — Miss Manners hopes — show some sensitivity by not prodding further.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: There is a new hire in our office who is about my husband’s age. He wears the most wonderful-smelling cologne, and I would love to purchase some for my husband for his birthday. How can I ask what the name of it is without coming across as flirty or pushy?
GENTLE READER: “I think my husband would love your cologne. Do you mind my asking its name?”