Q: Every one of my coworkers has a kid who’s selling something. I’ll go broke at this rate. Any advice?
A: Decide on a budget and make a commitment to yourself; “These are the requests I’m willing to give in to.” So when Trina asks about the wrapping paper her son is selling and that you don’t need, a simple “No, thanks” will do. If they turn aggressive on you, go ahead and cite the company policy against solicitations on the job.
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I like the way most of my co-workers handle this situation. We have an internal firm “bulletin board” on our intranet. People who have something to sell (for example, cookies or wrapping paper) will post a notice on the board. Those who want to buy contact them and those who don’t aren’t put on the spot.
My personal rule-of-thumb in this situation is to only buy things I would have bought anyway at a store, like cookies or wrapping paper, and then I only buy from the first one who asks. After that, I reply, “I’m sorry, but Bob got to me first. Maybe next time.” or “Thank-you, but I have enough wrapping paper for this Christmas.” There is certainly no requirement that you buy anything. If you do not want the items offered, then do not buy them.
I usually prefer to purchase or have delivered an item for a child’s school or social group by the child (meet the child with their parent) – so I always ask if their son or daughter will be coming by to sell or deliver. (I work in a social service agency so many have flexible schedules and can bring their children by for a visit). If I don’t want or need an item – I will say thank you but I’m going to pass on this sale this time. It’s not hard when talking to an adult. One request of the parents though. If they wish to help out their child selling items – they need to make sure that all information is present – child’s name, school / group the profits go to, who to make a check out to, etc.