What’s a bargain really worth?

By The RIDGEPRO.

Getting ahead in bargain recognition. 

At this hectic time of year, everyone seems to be hunting for bargains. Black Friday, Cyber Monday and End-of-Year Closeouts all crowd our inboxes with tempting offers that “might never come again." Suddenly, we’re seized with a desire to take advantage of what appears to be the deal of the century. Should we resist or slap down a credit card before that excellent deal gets away? 

Brain scientists say that buying something for less than full price triggers a rush of dopamine, a brain chemical that works instantly to produce a feeling of success, of beating the odds, of being in control. Who doesn’t love that kind of feeling? It’s so common there’s even a name for it: instant gratification. Getting something for a low price is exhilarating except when it isn’t. All too often, the lure of an irresistible price goes sour when the product turns out to be less than expected. 

A nasty surprise

Buyers remorse often sets in as soon as the product arrives and the packaging is torn away. You know immediately that what you purchased is not really what was advertised. It’s cheaply made and looks flimsy; or the assembly instructions are inscrutable; or worst of all, a tiny but critical piece or a fastener is missing. Lesson learned: glossy packaging or a rock bottom price cannot take the place of quality in materials and workmanship. 

Another point to be made when considering an extremely cheap product is lack of durability. Ask yourself how long you might expect the product to be needed, or how long should it last? If it breaks shortly after arrival, is it going to shut down the job? How easily could it be repaired? Are replacement  parts offered? Yes, the company might send a replacement but waiting weeks for it can cause job delays and will eat into profits.  

There’s no price on safety

When it comes to workplace safety, and in particular, when the jobsite is above the ground, there’s no room for bargain products that are made cheaply. Harnesses that are bulky or uncomfortable simply won’t be worn on the job. Clips or carabiners that rust or jam slow down the workflow. A flimsy ladder is actually a disaster waiting to happen.  

Don’t rush into purchases 

The solution lies in thoroughly researching products before purchase, no matter how attractive the price. Whenever possible, don’t wait until the last minute to order something. You’ll feel pressured and could be rushed into making a mistake. Is the seller reputable and is there a way to contact the company by email, chat or phone? Lack of available customer support is often a key indicator of a substandard product that already has a long complaint history. 

Do your homework

Check the return policy and any warranties offered on parts and/or workmanship. Reputable companies stand behind their products and aren’t afraid to say so. Read online reviews. Some may be glowing and appear professionally written. Skip those. If a few are totally negative – there are folks who just like to complain. However, beware of a product with too many “one star” reviews. Keep reading. You’ll find the reviewers who want to share their honest experiences with the product you’re considering. 

Most important, trust yourself: you weren’t born yesterday. If a deal seems too good to be true; it probably is. Buy quality and you’ll never be disappointed.