5.30.2010

variation on a theme

Another constant at the store are callers who want you to tell them how much you'll pay for their books. As the intricacies of the trade require a physical inspection, this isn't something we do. It's a simple concept and most people get the point, but as with folk who're sure the book doesn't belong in the section you point out some people always know better.


caller: Hi, I have these books, and I was wondering what you guys pay?

me: we're happy to look at books any day before 4, bring them in and we'll see what we can work out.

caller: Well, I just need to know how much you pay.

me: I need to see the books, we don't do phone estimates.

caller: Well, I've got the authors and everything.

me: I still need to see the books.

caller: Well, I live in Paso and that's a long drive.

me: That's unfortunate, but we don't give estimates over the phone.

caller: But they're in great shape and everything!

me: We still need to see the books so we can reach our own conclusions.

caller, snippily: well okay then, I'll just keep them!

me: okay, have a nice day.


The actual conversation went on quite a bit longer, but that's the gist of it. I get a similar call probably once a week, and they always play out in more or less the same way.

1 comment:

woodyb3 said...

No estimate! Screw it! I'll sit on 'em and see if they hatch into a golden goose.