The Pushers and their cookies
By John Putzier
Dear WOW:
I have a couple of co-workers who are constantly trying to sell my co-workers and me everything from Girl Scout cookies to Avon to sponsoring some walk for the cure. I don't want to be mean, but it seems like there is no end to their attempts to get their mitts into my measly wallet.
I have spoken to a couple of my closer colleagues about how they feel about this, and they concur, but no one wants to appear insensitive by saying no. We have to work with these people, so it's kind of like we have to pay for protection against potential animosities.
Is there some politically correct way to curb this constant barrage of begging for our bucks?
Fiscally Fraught,
Fred
Dear Fred:
Been there, done that! My style is to recite the old Nancy Reagan motto of "Just Say No!" I know you and your fellow workers fear retribution or negativity, but my first and foremost recommendation is to counter their brashness with your boldness.
I have always said that I would rather be correct, than politically correct. But it isn't politically incorrect to "not" buy something you don't want or to "not" support a cause that you don't feel passionate about. Next time one of these leaches lurks at you, respond with…"I'd be happy to contribute to your cause. Will you support mine, too?" (and then come up with one that you know they would never support) Okay, just kidding (kinda). A softer approach might be to say, "No thank you. I already give to charities and causes of my own."
At the risk of further imposing my personal style on you, if your feelings of guilt exceed your ability to Just Say No, may I suggest a new script for your self-talk? Instead of fearing alienating someone who has no qualms about putting you on the spot, say to yourself…"Why should I pay to protect the feelings of someone who doesn't give two cents about mine?"
Okay, so those are the tougher (most effective) courses of action. Still feeling a bit wimpy? If so, then summon your fellow spineless friends together and ask your manager and/or human resources department (if you have one) what the policy is on solicitation in the workplace. My guess is that there is none, which may then prompt them to develop one.
And guess what? I'll bet if your manager or human resources department were as honest as I am suggesting above, they probably don't like being hit up for cash and causes either! You've now given them a perfect excuse for putting an end to such brash behavior.
Backbonedly yours,
John Putzier
Wizard of Weirdness (WOW)
