Many companies, such as banks, utility companies, and even gaming companies are going paperless to save money all over the country but in the process and cutting down many jobs or getting rid of positions all together. In a time where money is tough to make and jobs are scarce where do we find even ground? If we hear about a company laying people off people, we become angry. We stop buying from the company to get back at them, but in turn we hurt the worker more causing additional layoffs and the eventual demise of the company.

A few months ago I found out my favorite company was switching to online paperless orders through a third party, order to print, and shipping prints to warehouses that in turn ship to stores. I thought 'that will help my local gaming store quite a bit!' I didn't realize that it also meant people getting laid off in the company I enjoy so much. I found out it also means that the few still working are getting over worked, doing many people's jobs, and getting the same or near same pay for twice or more the work. In general a lot of people that are working harder, making less money, and getting to a point of frustration but happy to be working.

It's not like 10 years ago when a job was a dime a dozen. Being unemployed myself I understand the severity of the job crises, but it was not until a worker at a company wrote me after an inquiry that I really understood the situation. It was that one email, one worker, who inspired me to write. It is a company that if was closer I would love to work for.

So, how do we decide where to shop and where not to? In the end it is a decision each person must make on their own. To me, feeling so strong about the survival of a company is good reason to shop at it. If I would hate to see the company go under as it has brought me much happiness over the years then that is a good reason to continue to buy the products from them. True I don't buy all the products from the company but I do buy what I like and encourage others to as well.

But what about other companies? Companies we do not love so much. When shopping I ask myself three questions. Did the company pay taxes last year? Would I be sad if the company went out of business? And do I need or want the product? If the answer is yes to all three then I am happy to buy the item. Each question plays an important role in my decision.

I wish there was a way I could cut out the companies that pay no taxes such as ExxonMobil, but I know it is impossible to do at this time. But, I can make a difference, shop at my favorite stores, change banks steering clear from Wells Fargo and Bank of America, and be conscious of my purchases. We all can make a difference and get things changed.

Remember while shopping you want excellent customer service and the workers are under just as much stress as you at work so a little thank you goes a long way. It can completely brighten someone's day. Who knows it may just brighten yours as well.

To my followers -I know I have not blogged in a long time here or any other of my blogging sites and I am a bit rusty, but I would like to make a special shout out to the worker who inspired me to write about the subject and my readers.

As always thanks for reading

-Lilin

• Published in Business & Entrepreneurship
• 1 Comments
•