I just don't like getting a miniscule savings in exchange for a (possibly) vastly inferior product, and that's a situation that will continue as long as there are people who are willing to take that deal.
And that bolded word is why the new/used argument comes up so much. Most of the time, used products are fine...except when they aren't.
Yeah, but it's not like when a used game doesn't work, you're just shit out of luck. You just go back and get another one that does work.
I don't mean they all are, but some are and people buy them anyway. As far as games go, I like my collection to look nice. "Does it work?" isn't the only question if the case is shredded and the insert torn with no instuctions. When it comes to systems you can't really tell if it's good or not. The case will be polished and new looking, but inside? Who knows. Might be as good as new, might be like The_Spaniard's xboxes.
As for the collection part, yes I agree with you somewhat. The only used consoles I have bought were a second DS and a 4th PS2 (I am a fan of modding them...). On games like the Metal Gear and Zelda series, I ALWAYS buy new, because I keep those games forever. For other games, I don't mind buying used or swapping for them (see my sig). When I swap for games, they frequently come as disc-only. However, I play the game and move on. If the game is a part of my 'collection' that I am going to keep forever and ever, I will buy it new whenever possible (FFVII is probably the only exception, though my girlfriend just revealed that she has a sealed non-greatest hits one in her closet :winky: )
As for your bit about the innards of the console, anything with a broken warranty seal or that they believe may be modded is automatically deemed 'broken' by them and they give you like $20 or less for it. Even if it is 100% functional.
I've heard nothing but good things about being employed at Starbucks, however as I never go there I must ask... Is it true that you guys use Super-Auto espresso machines?
I worked in a local coffee house for three years and have an interview at another next week and I'm really into the whole "baristas are artists" thing. It might seem a bit nerdy, but when I pull a good shot of espresso and it has a nice golden crema, my day is just a little better. I like what I've heard about Starbucks, but when I went into the new one on campus the other day, the only espresso machine they had was Super Automatic which really disappointed me.
So is that a whole chain thing, or just the crappy one near me?
Based on what I've seen, I think the automated machines are pretty standard.
This is true, but there is one thing that really, really seperates Starbucks from most other coffee places: Volume. My store easily rakes in about $42,000 in sales *every week*. I wouldn't be exagerating if I told you a bare minimum of 800 drinks get made every day, and that's not including plain coffee or tea.
Just to back you up on those figures: $8-9,000 a day in my store isn't really out of the ordinary and 800 drinks is a lowball figure I would say. It's amazing how much business Starbucks, at least my store, does. On the other hand my store is in a very wealthy, densely populated area.
I went into a Starbucks near where I work (the one on Queen Anne accross from Dicks) at about 11 AM the other day and the barista said she had just finished her 400th drink of the day. She was one of two working at the time.
Don't get me wrong, I love buying used stuff at flee markets and Willow Video Games (a great local store that's run like a video game store should be run) where I get a significant savings.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
The price difference on used games is so small that if I have to return it even once (and for Rogue Squadron II I had to return it three fucking times) I have already taken a huge loss because of the time involved. New every time is the way to go (assuming new are available) if you are employed or generally have things worth doing in your life.
Though I will say that the EB at Pacific Place (in Seattle) has an absolutely amazing selection of used games. Tons of stuff that I never see anywhere else.
The price difference on used games is so small that if I have to return it even once (and for Rogue Squadron II I had to return it three fucking times) I have already taken a huge loss because of the time involved. New every time is the way to go (assuming new are available) if you are employed or generally have things worth doing in your life.
Though I will say that the EB at Pacific Place (in Seattle) has an absolutely amazing selection of used games. Tons of stuff that I never see anywhere else.
Personally, I always look at the games before I buy them anyway, to make sure they're in reasonable condition. I've only once bought a game and had it not work.
To me, the savings is worth it, because I do most of my used purchasing when there's those buy 2, get 1 free deals, so it really is a whole lot fucking cheaper.
The price difference on used games is so small that if I have to return it even once (and for Rogue Squadron II I had to return it three fucking times) I have already taken a huge loss because of the time involved. New every time is the way to go (assuming new are available) if you are employed or generally have things worth doing in your life.
Though I will say that the EB at Pacific Place (in Seattle) has an absolutely amazing selection of used games. Tons of stuff that I never see anywhere else.
Personally, I always look at the games before I buy them anyway, to make sure they're in reasonable condition. I've only once bought a game and had it not work.
To me, the savings is worth it, because I do most of my used purchasing when there's those buy 2, get 1 free deals, so it really is a whole lot fucking cheaper.
Ditto here. I'll put aside like $50 - 60 bucks for a b2g1 sale, combine it with my card and get like 6 games for the PS2 that I haven't played (I'm always behind in my games, so I tend to buy old stuff). The risk is low too, since I try them all in the first few days and if they are lousy I swap them for something else.
Don't get me wrong, I love buying used stuff at flee markets and Willow Video Games (a great local store that's run like a video game store should be run) where I get a significant savings.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
i imagine when someone says that, they're referring to the treatment of customers and employees. as in, treating them like humans worthy of respect. which is most certainly not how EBStop runs their business.
Houk the Namebringer on
0
The_SpaniardIt's never lupinesIrvine, CaliforniaRegistered Userregular
Don't get me wrong, I love buying used stuff at flee markets and Willow Video Games (a great local store that's run like a video game store should be run) where I get a significant savings.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
Sorry, that was vague of me. I mean that they have a balance between profits, employee welfare and customer service. Clearly they are profitable enough to stay afloat as they've been there for more than a decade. The employees seem happy when I chat with them and many have been there a long time (no massive turnover).
And they're great for the customer. Their prices are excellent; new games often undercut EB or Futureshop by $5 to $10. Their used games are cheap enough that I feel like I'm getting a deal, not ass-raped. And they'll give you a good value for your trade-ins. For example I traded in Champions of Norath for $10 a few months ago. EB offered me $3.
EB/Gamestop has no balance. It's profits first at the expense of everything else, including employees and customers. Some may say that's capitalism, that's the way a corporation needs to function. I wonder why? It is possible for businesses to have a balance where in all three parties are cared for. The company may not maximize their richness, but they'll still make good money and make the world a more pleasant place to be.
AlienCowThatMoos on
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The_SpaniardIt's never lupinesIrvine, CaliforniaRegistered Userregular
Don't get me wrong, I love buying used stuff at flee markets and Willow Video Games (a great local store that's run like a video game store should be run) where I get a significant savings.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
Sorry, that was vague of me. I mean that they have a balance between profits, employee welfare and customer service. Clearly they are profitable enough to stay afloat as they've been there for more than a decade. The employees seem happy when I chat with them and many have been there a long time (no massive turnover).
And they're great for the customer. Their prices are excellent; new games often undercut EB or Futureshop by $5 to $10. Their used games are cheap enough that I feel like I'm getting a deal, not ass-raped. And they'll give you a good value for your trade-ins. For example I traded in Champions of Norath for $10 a few months ago. EB offered me $3.
EB/Gamestop has no balance. It's profits first at the expense of everything else, including employees and customers. Some may say that's capitalism, that's the way a corporation needs to function. I wonder why? It is possible for businesses to have a balance where in all three parties are cared for. The company may not maximize their richness, but they'll still make good money and make the world a more pleasant place to be.
I like businesses that're all about the profit, because I know their motives. EB/GS make a lot of money, I'd wager they make far more than your friendly neighborhood Willow Video Games. Maybe Willow is only the way it is (and I wager this is true) because it is small, and not aspiring to be more than it is. I imagine (having never heard of it) that it's a small chain, or an indy store, without stockholders, or aspirations of becoming the preeminent stop for all your videogame purchasing needs, worldwide.
Don't get me wrong, I love buying used stuff at flee markets and Willow Video Games (a great local store that's run like a video game store should be run) where I get a significant savings.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
Sorry, that was vague of me. I mean that they have a balance between profits, employee welfare and customer service. Clearly they are profitable enough to stay afloat as they've been there for more than a decade. The employees seem happy when I chat with them and many have been there a long time (no massive turnover).
And they're great for the customer. Their prices are excellent; new games often undercut EB or Futureshop by $5 to $10. Their used games are cheap enough that I feel like I'm getting a deal, not ass-raped. And they'll give you a good value for your trade-ins. For example I traded in Champions of Norath for $10 a few months ago. EB offered me $3.
EB/Gamestop has no balance. It's profits first at the expense of everything else, including employees and customers. Some may say that's capitalism, that's the way a corporation needs to function. I wonder why? It is possible for businesses to have a balance where in all three parties are cared for. The company may not maximize their richness, but they'll still make good money and make the world a more pleasant place to be.
I like businesses that're all about the profit, because I know their motives. EB/GS make a lot of money, I'd wager they make far more than your friendly neighborhood Willow Video Games. Maybe Willow is only the way it is (and I wager this is true) because it is small, and not aspiring to be more than it is. I imagine (having never heard of it) that it's a small chain, or an indy store, without stockholders, or aspirations of becoming the preeminent stop for all your videogame purchasing needs, worldwide.
What kind of motives do you think this Willow store he speaks of may have? Also, I used to work at EB for a good year or 2, and the guy 2 posts above is exactly right when he talks about them not having a balance when it comes to money and keeping people happy. Before I started, I thought it'd be the best job in the world. Then after a year of working there, you realize that it's a low-pay, no benefits, no comission (even though managers will ride your ass to make as many sales as possible) job where 80% of the time, you have to talk to people who are annoying about games you don't even like. Keep in mind that sometimes you can luck out and have a nice manager, but they are only nice for so long, because head office will ride their ass for being too nice to the employees.
Svevin on
0
ShadowfireVermont, in the middle of nowhereRegistered Userregular
Don't get me wrong, I love buying used stuff at flee markets and Willow Video Games (a great local store that's run like a video game store should be run) where I get a significant savings.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
Sorry, that was vague of me. I mean that they have a balance between profits, employee welfare and customer service. Clearly they are profitable enough to stay afloat as they've been there for more than a decade. The employees seem happy when I chat with them and many have been there a long time (no massive turnover).
And they're great for the customer. Their prices are excellent; new games often undercut EB or Futureshop by $5 to $10. Their used games are cheap enough that I feel like I'm getting a deal, not ass-raped. And they'll give you a good value for your trade-ins. For example I traded in Champions of Norath for $10 a few months ago. EB offered me $3.
EB/Gamestop has no balance. It's profits first at the expense of everything else, including employees and customers. Some may say that's capitalism, that's the way a corporation needs to function. I wonder why? It is possible for businesses to have a balance where in all three parties are cared for. The company may not maximize their richness, but they'll still make good money and make the world a more pleasant place to be.
I like businesses that're all about the profit, because I know their motives. EB/GS make a lot of money, I'd wager they make far more than your friendly neighborhood Willow Video Games. Maybe Willow is only the way it is (and I wager this is true) because it is small, and not aspiring to be more than it is. I imagine (having never heard of it) that it's a small chain, or an indy store, without stockholders, or aspirations of becoming the preeminent stop for all your videogame purchasing needs, worldwide.
What kind of motives do you think this Willow store he speaks of may have? Also, I used to work at EB for a good year or 2, and the guy 2 posts above is exactly right when he talks about them not having a balance when it comes to money and keeping people happy. Before I started, I thought it'd be the best job in the world. Then after a year of working there, you realize that it's a low-pay, no benefits, no comission (even though managers will ride your ass to make as many sales as possible) job where 80% of the time, you have to talk to people who are annoying about games you don't even like. Keep in mind that sometimes you can luck out and have a nice manager, but they are only nice for so long, because head office will ride their ass for being too nice to the employees.
I get bitched at for having my employees over for BBQ in the summertime.
We're having a new years eve party here at my apartment, and my DM doesn't like it.
I told him I don't care. I've told that to many DMs previous. Those "nice until ridden" managers are pussies.
Man, working for EBStop is fun if you ignore corporate policy and try to help customers and have fun with your coworkers. I feel sorry for people who have shitty managers, though.
Don't get me wrong, I love buying used stuff at flee markets and Willow Video Games (a great local store that's run like a video game store should be run) where I get a significant savings.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
Sorry, that was vague of me. I mean that they have a balance between profits, employee welfare and customer service. Clearly they are profitable enough to stay afloat as they've been there for more than a decade. The employees seem happy when I chat with them and many have been there a long time (no massive turnover).
And they're great for the customer. Their prices are excellent; new games often undercut EB or Futureshop by $5 to $10. Their used games are cheap enough that I feel like I'm getting a deal, not ass-raped. And they'll give you a good value for your trade-ins. For example I traded in Champions of Norath for $10 a few months ago. EB offered me $3.
EB/Gamestop has no balance. It's profits first at the expense of everything else, including employees and customers. Some may say that's capitalism, that's the way a corporation needs to function. I wonder why? It is possible for businesses to have a balance where in all three parties are cared for. The company may not maximize their richness, but they'll still make good money and make the world a more pleasant place to be.
I like businesses that're all about the profit, because I know their motives. EB/GS make a lot of money, I'd wager they make far more than your friendly neighborhood Willow Video Games. Maybe Willow is only the way it is (and I wager this is true) because it is small, and not aspiring to be more than it is. I imagine (having never heard of it) that it's a small chain, or an indy store, without stockholders, or aspirations of becoming the preeminent stop for all your videogame purchasing needs, worldwide.
What kind of motives do you think this Willow store he speaks of may have? Also, I used to work at EB for a good year or 2, and the guy 2 posts above is exactly right when he talks about them not having a balance when it comes to money and keeping people happy. Before I started, I thought it'd be the best job in the world. Then after a year of working there, you realize that it's a low-pay, no benefits, no comission (even though managers will ride your ass to make as many sales as possible) job where 80% of the time, you have to talk to people who are annoying about games you don't even like. Keep in mind that sometimes you can luck out and have a nice manager, but they are only nice for so long, because head office will ride their ass for being too nice to the employees.
I get bitched at for having my employees over for BBQ in the summertime.
We're having a new years eve party here at my apartment, and my DM doesn't like it.
I told him I don't care. I've told that to many DMs previous. Those "nice until ridden" managers are pussies.
Yeah, because in gamestops eyes the nicer you are to your employees the more likely they are to steal from you.
Cuz that makes sence....
Reigner on
Exodus Server: Venstra Rei
FFBE: 838,975,107
Dokkan: 1668363315
So one of those guys that waits online like he's a customer and then asks if you ever use cologne and if I would like to buy some. I fucking hate these people. One time they actually went around the store trying to put their business cards in the inserts of the game boxes.
I mean this idiot today literally CUT IN FRONT OF PEOPLE IN LINE HALFWAY TO THE DOOR to waste my and paying customers' time with this. The sheer fucking arrogance of these scumbags never ceases to amaze me. Why they can't they stop being fucking living filth and get an actual fucking job? Fuck humanity.
Unforgivable: Hey man I have kind of a silly question.
Me: ???
Unforgivable: Do you ever wear cologne?
Me: We have a "No Soliciting" sign in front of our store. You need to leave.
Unforgivable: That's not very nice, look we just want to sell you this cologne here, we can let you try some out if you want and it's-
Me: There is a line of people behind you with money that want to buy products from our store that we have set up here via space that we rent. I'm the middle man that sells these products to them. You are wasting their time, you are wasting my time, leave.
Unforgivable: Well you have a wonderful attitude.
Me: Yes, I do. I hope you get cancer (at this point customers start laughing).
Idiot finally walks out with his tail between his legs.
Seriously, in the summer these fuckers literally stand in the MIDDLE OF THE TWO WAY LANES IN THE PARKING LOT AND WAVE DOWN CARS. I just honk the horn and aim right at the fuckers.
Neo Rasa on
"You know how Batman hangs people over the edge of buildings and gets them to spill information. That's Neo Rasa's way of it, but instead of information, he just likes to see people suffer." ~Senor Fish
One more reason I'm glad I dont live in a heavily populated area.
So today I had an old guy who, as I approached him, tossed some candy at me. I just kind of stared at him for a second, trying to figure out what the hell that meant. After several more seconds of awkward silence he starts saying "computers. If I want to send email what do I need? I dont know anything about this."
After I finished with him I watched him walk around and everytime he talked to an employee he'd toss fucking candy at them. I threw mine away.
Also me and some other people got some pizza for lunch. this woman who works there that I hate asked me a little bit later if I had any left. "50 cents a slice!" she offered. I said it was all gone. I then ran into the break room and took my pizza from the fridge and put it on the table and told the people in there to eat it before she saw it.
Basticle on
0
TexiKenDammit!That fish really got me!Registered Userregular
So one of those guys that waits online like he's a customer and then asks if you ever use cologne and if I would like to buy some. I fucking hate these people. One time they actually went around the store trying to put their business cards in the inserts of the game boxes.
I mean this idiot today literally CUT IN FRONT OF PEOPLE IN LINE HALFWAY TO THE DOOR to waste my and paying customers' time with this. The sheer fucking arrogance of these scumbags never ceases to amaze me. Why they can't they stop being fucking living filth and get an actual fucking job? Fuck humanity.
Unforgivable: Hey man I have kind of a silly question.
Me: ???
Unforgivable: Do you ever wear cologne?
Me: We have a "No Soliciting" sign in front of our store. You need to leave.
Unforgivable: That's not very nice, look we just want to sell you this cologne here, we can let you try some out if you want and it's-
Me: There is a line of people behind you with money that want to buy products from our store that we have set up here via space that we rent. I'm the middle man that sells these products to them. You are wasting their time, you are wasting my time, leave.
Unforgivable: Well you have a wonderful attitude.
Me: Yes, I do. I hope you get cancer (at this point customers start laughing).
Idiot finally walks out with his tail between his legs.
Seriously, in the summer these fuckers literally stand in the MIDDLE OF THE TWO WAY LANES IN THE PARKING LOT AND WAVE DOWN CARS. I just honk the horn and aim right at the fuckers.
I've never seen this, but it is fascinating. Is this kind of like the guy in the movie Barbershop who always comes in trying to sell stolen stuff?
What I've seen a lot of in Austin, mainly the past 6 months, are kids who go around trying to sell newspaper subscriptions so they can get loan money for college (I need to actually pay attention next time they start spouting their dribble). They basically say you get a free year's subscription for the local newspaper, all you have to pay is the delivery fee. It's a scam so you lose 30 bucks but never get the paper, but they try and target other students to trigger the guilt trip (plus kids these days can't say no). This gets annoying, especially when "No Soliciting" is everywhere on campus, especially the entrance tot he student apartments.
Haha forget that, we've had scumbags literally WALK INTO CLASSES THAT ARE IN SESSION ON THE FIRST DAY OF CLASS, ASK THE TEACHER TO HANG ON A SECOND, AND THEN START TRYING TO SELL "CONCERT TICKETS" TO THE CLASS.
Neo Rasa on
"You know how Batman hangs people over the edge of buildings and gets them to spill information. That's Neo Rasa's way of it, but instead of information, he just likes to see people suffer." ~Senor Fish
Haha forget that, we've had scumbags literally WALK INTO CLASSES THAT ARE IN SESSION ON THE FIRST DAY OF CLASS, ASK THE TEACHER TO HANG ON A SECOND, AND THEN START TRYING TO SELL "CONCERT TICKETS" TO THE CLASS.
If you actually listen to these two clowns then you're an idiot. I think you two guys need to leave immediately and never let me see you again.
Neo Rasa on
"You know how Batman hangs people over the edge of buildings and gets them to spill information. That's Neo Rasa's way of it, but instead of information, he just likes to see people suffer." ~Senor Fish
If you actually listen to these two clowns then you're an idiot. I think you two guys need to leave immediately and never let me see you again.
The class should have shut the door, kept them in there, and called the campus cops.
After class he wanted to see if other kids actually bought the tickets/professors actually let them do their spiel and then expel/terminate employment based on it. :P
Neo Rasa on
"You know how Batman hangs people over the edge of buildings and gets them to spill information. That's Neo Rasa's way of it, but instead of information, he just likes to see people suffer." ~Senor Fish
So one of those guys that waits online like he's a customer and then asks if you ever use cologne and if I would like to buy some. I fucking hate these people. One time they actually went around the store trying to put their business cards in the inserts of the game boxes.
I mean this idiot today literally CUT IN FRONT OF PEOPLE IN LINE HALFWAY TO THE DOOR to waste my and paying customers' time with this. The sheer fucking arrogance of these scumbags never ceases to amaze me. Why they can't they stop being fucking living filth and get an actual fucking job? Fuck humanity.
One time a guy came into my office carrying a box full of his crap. Before he got two words out of his mouth, I said "Nope, bye." He slowly sidled away, cutting his eyes at me as I crossed my arms and watched him leave. When he reached the door, he turned around and said, "You need to learn to talk to people."
I cheerfully flipped him off.
One dumb bitch was actually peeking into my office after close to see if anyone was in there. I was bringing my car around so I could load it up with some things I had shipped there, so I caught her doing it. She had the nerve to ask me if we were closed and then still try to push crappy Christmas ornaments on me when I told her yes.
On the subject of death and daemons disappearing: arrows sure are effective in Lyra's universe. Seems like if you get shot once, you're dead - no lingering deaths with your daemon huddling pitifully in your arms, just *thunk* *argh* *whoosh*. A battlefield full of the dying would just be so much more depressing when you add in wailing gerbils and dogs.
I once had a Jehova's Witness grab the pizza box from a pizza guy and hand it to me.
"You don't need to tip us. We've got God's Love in our wallet."
I look at the pizza guy, who looks annoyed, hand him a $10 for a 7 dollar order, and say "Keep the change" then turn to the JW, "Keep the speech." And close the door.
I (casual employee) finally snapped today at the store assistant manager, after being sick of all his lazy as fuck, do-nothing attitude and leave it all for everyone to clean up instead. His words previous to today "Im just here to assist" as opposed to doing any of the fucking work he is meant to like, I dunno, ordering all the fucking stationery we need to operate after christmas. So yeah, I lost it. And guess who has three official warnings now.
[spoiler:37b7e96a1c]He does.[/spoiler:37b7e96a1c]
RandomVince on
ULTIMATUM, n. In diplomacy, a last demand before resorting to concessions.
We constantly get those fuckers selling shit. Usually I'm cool about it and just ask them to leave and they do, no big deal.
Well one time a guy came in with a box of like rock waterfalls and some other shit, really didn't pay much attention. I told him there is no soliciting in the store when he informed he wasn't soliciting...
Me: Well you have a box of items you would like me to purchase or see if any of my co workers would like to purchase, how is that not soliciting?
Him: Um...Well...
Me: Exactly...please leave.
Now he had 3 other guys with him so maybe he was just trying to save face at this point.
Him: Only an idiot would pass up on a deal like this!
Me: Only an idiot would solicit inside a business.
Him: Whatever.. you know.. you're a fucking dick you're lucky there are people around or I'd show you some manners.
Me: I get off in 2 hours, I'll be outside for my manners lesson then if you like.
In the last 10 years I think I've only vaguley hinted at beating the shit out of someone like a total of 3 times. That was one of them.
I actually had to do that soliciting shit one day in my life. A couple years back my co-op at Uni didnt find me a job so I had 4 months with dick all to do. My mom found this job in the paper that sounded pretty awesome, good pay, decent work. My buddy in the same situation as I went in for the interview. The job was absolutely nothing like the description in the paper, it was this bullshit solicitation crap. They split us up (there were 2 other dudes 'sides us) and we all went with one of the more experienced guys. I got the shit end of the stick and had to drive with these assholes 30 mins to another town.
We spent the entire day walking around selling people these shitty candles, electronic poker games, and horrible little portable toolkits. We went into Churches, old folks homes, businesses, and people walking down the street. The jerk I was with ended up selling like 3 of these toolkits to some nice old lady by saying they would be great as an emergency road side kit (???). She ate it up. The only good thing of day was I didnt have to do any talking since it was my first day (haha) and he bought me pizza at lunch time.
I didn't go back the next day, even though they called my house relentlessly. It was the second worse job Iv'e ever done.
Elessar Elfstone on
Tobias: Or it could be your colon. I'd want to get in there and find some answers.
So today I had an old guy who, as I approached him, tossed some candy at me. I just kind of stared at him for a second, trying to figure out what the hell that meant. After several more seconds of awkward silence he starts saying "computers. If I want to send email what do I need? I dont know anything about this."
After I finished with him I watched him walk around and everytime he talked to an employee he'd toss fucking candy at them. I threw mine away.
I actually had to do that soliciting shit one day in my life. A couple years back my co-op at Uni didnt find me a job so I had 4 months with dick all to do. My mom found this job in the paper that sounded pretty awesome, good pay, decent work. My buddy in the same situation as I went in for the interview. The job was absolutely nothing like the description in the paper, it was this bullshit solicitation crap. They split us up (there were 2 other dudes 'sides us) and we all went with one of the more experienced guys. I got the shit end of the stick and had to drive with these assholes 30 mins to another town.
We spent the entire day walking around selling people these shitty candles, electronic poker games, and horrible little portable toolkits. We went into Churches, old folks homes, businesses, and people walking down the street. The jerk I was with ended up selling like 3 of these toolkits to some nice old lady by saying they would be great as an emergency road side kit (???). She ate it up. The only good thing of day was I didnt have to do any talking since it was my first day (haha) and he bought me pizza at lunch time.
I didn't go back the next day, even though they called my house relentlessly. It was the second worse job Iv'e ever done.
What the hells with this Gamestation UK policy that if you work Boxing day and get paid double time you dont get it for working new years day? If I fucking work a special day I get the proper pay, it isnt one or the other, you fucking pay me for the work I do.
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Yeah, but it's not like when a used game doesn't work, you're just shit out of luck. You just go back and get another one that does work.
As for the collection part, yes I agree with you somewhat. The only used consoles I have bought were a second DS and a 4th PS2 (I am a fan of modding them...). On games like the Metal Gear and Zelda series, I ALWAYS buy new, because I keep those games forever. For other games, I don't mind buying used or swapping for them (see my sig). When I swap for games, they frequently come as disc-only. However, I play the game and move on. If the game is a part of my 'collection' that I am going to keep forever and ever, I will buy it new whenever possible (FFVII is probably the only exception, though my girlfriend just revealed that she has a sealed non-greatest hits one in her closet :winky: )
As for your bit about the innards of the console, anything with a broken warranty seal or that they believe may be modded is automatically deemed 'broken' by them and they give you like $20 or less for it. Even if it is 100% functional.
+1 The 'must have' games (especially collector's editions) are always preordered and bought new.
Used games just don't feel as good when I put them in my pants.
I went into a Starbucks near where I work (the one on Queen Anne accross from Dicks) at about 11 AM the other day and the barista said she had just finished her 400th drink of the day. She was one of two working at the time.
That type of reasoning has always bothered me. The whole "how a game store should be run". How exactly is that? I mean, EB and GS are obviously being ran well, seeing as how they continue to make money and keep expanding.
If you don't tell them, I'd wager they won't know.
Though I will say that the EB at Pacific Place (in Seattle) has an absolutely amazing selection of used games. Tons of stuff that I never see anywhere else.
Personally, I always look at the games before I buy them anyway, to make sure they're in reasonable condition. I've only once bought a game and had it not work.
To me, the savings is worth it, because I do most of my used purchasing when there's those buy 2, get 1 free deals, so it really is a whole lot fucking cheaper.
Ditto here. I'll put aside like $50 - 60 bucks for a b2g1 sale, combine it with my card and get like 6 games for the PS2 that I haven't played (I'm always behind in my games, so I tend to buy old stuff). The risk is low too, since I try them all in the first few days and if they are lousy I swap them for something else.
That's why I buy my pants used as well, so maybe I can reunite a game with the first pants it was shoved down.
Do you suppose I could call some out of state EB and ask what the official policy would be? Or isn't there really an official policy?
Sorry, that was vague of me. I mean that they have a balance between profits, employee welfare and customer service. Clearly they are profitable enough to stay afloat as they've been there for more than a decade. The employees seem happy when I chat with them and many have been there a long time (no massive turnover).
And they're great for the customer. Their prices are excellent; new games often undercut EB or Futureshop by $5 to $10. Their used games are cheap enough that I feel like I'm getting a deal, not ass-raped. And they'll give you a good value for your trade-ins. For example I traded in Champions of Norath for $10 a few months ago. EB offered me $3.
EB/Gamestop has no balance. It's profits first at the expense of everything else, including employees and customers. Some may say that's capitalism, that's the way a corporation needs to function. I wonder why? It is possible for businesses to have a balance where in all three parties are cared for. The company may not maximize their richness, but they'll still make good money and make the world a more pleasant place to be.
I like businesses that're all about the profit, because I know their motives. EB/GS make a lot of money, I'd wager they make far more than your friendly neighborhood Willow Video Games. Maybe Willow is only the way it is (and I wager this is true) because it is small, and not aspiring to be more than it is. I imagine (having never heard of it) that it's a small chain, or an indy store, without stockholders, or aspirations of becoming the preeminent stop for all your videogame purchasing needs, worldwide.
What kind of motives do you think this Willow store he speaks of may have? Also, I used to work at EB for a good year or 2, and the guy 2 posts above is exactly right when he talks about them not having a balance when it comes to money and keeping people happy. Before I started, I thought it'd be the best job in the world. Then after a year of working there, you realize that it's a low-pay, no benefits, no comission (even though managers will ride your ass to make as many sales as possible) job where 80% of the time, you have to talk to people who are annoying about games you don't even like. Keep in mind that sometimes you can luck out and have a nice manager, but they are only nice for so long, because head office will ride their ass for being too nice to the employees.
I get bitched at for having my employees over for BBQ in the summertime.
We're having a new years eve party here at my apartment, and my DM doesn't like it.
I told him I don't care. I've told that to many DMs previous. Those "nice until ridden" managers are pussies.
Yeah, because in gamestops eyes the nicer you are to your employees the more likely they are to steal from you.
Cuz that makes sence....
FFBE: 838,975,107
Dokkan: 1668363315
I mean this idiot today literally CUT IN FRONT OF PEOPLE IN LINE HALFWAY TO THE DOOR to waste my and paying customers' time with this. The sheer fucking arrogance of these scumbags never ceases to amaze me. Why they can't they stop being fucking living filth and get an actual fucking job? Fuck humanity.
Unforgivable: Hey man I have kind of a silly question.
Me: ???
Unforgivable: Do you ever wear cologne?
Me: We have a "No Soliciting" sign in front of our store. You need to leave.
Unforgivable: That's not very nice, look we just want to sell you this cologne here, we can let you try some out if you want and it's-
Me: There is a line of people behind you with money that want to buy products from our store that we have set up here via space that we rent. I'm the middle man that sells these products to them. You are wasting their time, you are wasting my time, leave.
Unforgivable: Well you have a wonderful attitude.
Me: Yes, I do. I hope you get cancer (at this point customers start laughing).
Idiot finally walks out with his tail between his legs.
Seriously, in the summer these fuckers literally stand in the MIDDLE OF THE TWO WAY LANES IN THE PARKING LOT AND WAVE DOWN CARS. I just honk the horn and aim right at the fuckers.
One more reason I'm glad I dont live in a heavily populated area.
So today I had an old guy who, as I approached him, tossed some candy at me. I just kind of stared at him for a second, trying to figure out what the hell that meant. After several more seconds of awkward silence he starts saying "computers. If I want to send email what do I need? I dont know anything about this."
After I finished with him I watched him walk around and everytime he talked to an employee he'd toss fucking candy at them. I threw mine away.
This post has been edited for spelling and sanity
I've never seen this, but it is fascinating. Is this kind of like the guy in the movie Barbershop who always comes in trying to sell stolen stuff?
What I've seen a lot of in Austin, mainly the past 6 months, are kids who go around trying to sell newspaper subscriptions so they can get loan money for college (I need to actually pay attention next time they start spouting their dribble). They basically say you get a free year's subscription for the local newspaper, all you have to pay is the delivery fee. It's a scam so you lose 30 bucks but never get the paper, but they try and target other students to trigger the guilt trip (plus kids these days can't say no). This gets annoying, especially when "No Soliciting" is everywhere on campus, especially the entrance tot he student apartments.
:?
To paraphase the class' professor:
If you actually listen to these two clowns then you're an idiot. I think you two guys need to leave immediately and never let me see you again.
The class should have shut the door, kept them in there, and called the campus cops.
After class he wanted to see if other kids actually bought the tickets/professors actually let them do their spiel and then expel/terminate employment based on it. :P
One time a guy came into my office carrying a box full of his crap. Before he got two words out of his mouth, I said "Nope, bye." He slowly sidled away, cutting his eyes at me as I crossed my arms and watched him leave. When he reached the door, he turned around and said, "You need to learn to talk to people."
I cheerfully flipped him off.
One dumb bitch was actually peeking into my office after close to see if anyone was in there. I was bringing my car around so I could load it up with some things I had shipped there, so I caught her doing it. She had the nerve to ask me if we were closed and then still try to push crappy Christmas ornaments on me when I told her yes.
"You don't need to tip us. We've got God's Love in our wallet."
I look at the pizza guy, who looks annoyed, hand him a $10 for a 7 dollar order, and say "Keep the change" then turn to the JW, "Keep the speech." And close the door.
At least one of them made out pretty well.
[spoiler:37b7e96a1c]He does.[/spoiler:37b7e96a1c]
Well one time a guy came in with a box of like rock waterfalls and some other shit, really didn't pay much attention. I told him there is no soliciting in the store when he informed he wasn't soliciting...
Me: Well you have a box of items you would like me to purchase or see if any of my co workers would like to purchase, how is that not soliciting?
Him: Um...Well...
Me: Exactly...please leave.
Now he had 3 other guys with him so maybe he was just trying to save face at this point.
Him: Only an idiot would pass up on a deal like this!
Me: Only an idiot would solicit inside a business.
Him: Whatever.. you know.. you're a fucking dick you're lucky there are people around or I'd show you some manners.
Me: I get off in 2 hours, I'll be outside for my manners lesson then if you like.
In the last 10 years I think I've only vaguley hinted at beating the shit out of someone like a total of 3 times. That was one of them.
We spent the entire day walking around selling people these shitty candles, electronic poker games, and horrible little portable toolkits. We went into Churches, old folks homes, businesses, and people walking down the street. The jerk I was with ended up selling like 3 of these toolkits to some nice old lady by saying they would be great as an emergency road side kit (???). She ate it up. The only good thing of day was I didnt have to do any talking since it was my first day (haha) and he bought me pizza at lunch time.
I didn't go back the next day, even though they called my house relentlessly. It was the second worse job Iv'e ever done.
Forsake, Warlock of Stonemaul
Is that kinda like how Santa throws sugar cubes to get his elves to make toys?
This invites an obvious question.
Is there no way around this?