I have a sense I may regret getting involved in this "dispute", but far be it from me to sit quietly and listen to things I find arguable.
Everybody is entitled to an opinion and frankly, that's what this board is all about. It does bother me when an individual can praise one store and bash another. Especially when my experiences are completely opposite. How can a store be praised when it boasts such arrogant service and houses such disease ridden livestock...
. My solution is simple. I do voice my concerns and disgust when justifiable but when the response quoted is "they're only fish..." I've done my part. My business is done elsewhere. End of story... If the experiences are reversed for others, I suggest you do the same ! Go elsewhere. And
continue to go elsewhere. So many people will critisize a store yet they continue to support them. That makes you as guilty as them.
Indeed some places are simply in it for the sale. That is present in every industry and it is unfortunate. So tell them. If they "tag team" you with the additude they know more than you...perhaps you entered into a battle which should not have been began.
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I try and carry a degree of respect for all individuals who work in this chosen industry. I like to think their experiences are something from which I can gain from. As a consumer, we have a responsibility of making informed decisions. Making that decision based on one individuals recomendations can be a very dangerous practice.
As a hobbiest for many years, I've always found some individuals who are quick to boast about their wisdom in the hobby. Some are legitimate, others simply don't understand the concept of two ears and only one mouth...as I've expanded my hobby into a form of business I meet even more people with the "know it all attitude". I politely listen and let them express themselves. If I disagree or feel they're "mis-informed", I tell them. I can quickly distinguish between those who are willing to share experiences and learn from on another, and those who just need to talk. I can't change that and I don't try to...
Perhaps our "approach" or "delivery" with the industry employees should be re-considered as these individuals see it all, every day. I consider myself very experienced in this hobby but I never fail to listen to those I meet that are passionate about this hobby too. I've been keeping fish for nearly thirty years but much of what I learn is from people who have been doing it for perhaps only two years. As Steve so appropriately stated once, "there's more than one way to skin a cat".
Before I
totally get off topic let me say this. Talk to your retailers. They might just care enough to listen. If they don't, ask yourself, was it my approach or do they want my money and future refernces to go elsewhere...?
After reviewing this post, I'd like to add that "Gold's" is not one of the stores which I was referring to. Though limited, every experience with Dennis has been a positive one...