By: Natasha Archary
Friends and family discounts is the contentious conversation on Drive 959 on Thursday, 06 June with the team questioning whether offering a discount is a kind gesture or an entitled expectation on the part of your family.
Whether you have a small business, are offering a service, or are in a position that offers certain perks, is it normal for friends and family to expect a discount or for you to simply give them whatever it is for free?
Why is there an expectation to begin with? This is what Kgomotso Meso wants to know because she is of the belief that if your friends and family don’t have unwavering support of your endeavours, why should a stranger?
“It becomes problematic when say for example Glen you’re booked at a gig, it’s not your gig you’re booked there and now your friends and family are asking for freebies.
If my friends and family do not believe in what I do, I’m wondering why strangers should believe. So, for me it’s the fact that you don’t even see or acknowledge that I’m trying to come up in life, help me.
Don’t be asking me for a freebie or a discount. You’re my friend or family, buy the ticket full price.”
Kgomotso Meso on Drive 959
If those close to you don’t believe your business or brand is worth them paying full price, then how can one expect an outsider to want to?
Some listeners said it was unreasonable for friends and family to expect discounts for their services, because who covers the costs?
Everyone is trying to stay afloat, but running a business means you need to make a profit in order to fit your bills and if those within your circle don’t understand that, then they should take their business elsewhere.
People would rather support others than their own family or friends and this is something that doesn’t sit well with many listeners.
If you say no, you can’t give them a discount they take it personally, but when you’re running a business all’s fair in love and war.
