I love shopping at thrift stores as do many of my peers. Thrifting is a love shared across all demographics regardless of socioeconomic standing, age, or location. My grandma who is retired and has more money than she knows what do with enjoys thrift shopping just as much as a broke millennial college student like myself. Something about rifling through racks of others donated (and often dated) clothes is all made worth it when you stumble upon a piece of clothing you really love at an even more lovable price point. Something about these stores and the products they sell evoke a sense of character. The experience of thrifting often provides customers with more satisfaction then the items they end up purchasing. However, the experience of shopping at thrift stores would not provide the same value if it was not for the staff working there. Thrift stores, in many cases, are supporting some sort of cause by donating to, supporting, raising awareness for, or employing those in need. The charity aspect of these organizations is something that resonates with many customers. I think a well known example of this is displayed by GoodWill.
Goodwill as an organization is a charitable venture to the core. The whole sales method is one that is truly redemptive and brings restoration to employees and customers alike. Goodwill’s entire business model is designed to support its employees and various programs helping those in need. Through the help of donations and cost conscious customers, goodwill operates as essentially a conglomerate garage sale hiring those in need. The purpose of this non profit is stated clearly by looking at their mission statement found on their website:
“to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by strengthening communities, eliminating barriers to opportunity, and helping people in need reach their full potential through learning and the power of work.”
Goodwill employs those who have trouble finding work or who may not be able to find work because of past or current circumstances. Employees who would be turned away by standard retailers find a home with Goodwill. Goodwill welcomes teens without a resume and felons with welcome arms. They strive to care for their employees and give them a home and a chance to build skills and experiences so they can move on when other companies wouldn’t even consider hiring them. Not only this but they help pair employees with other organizations, give a large percent of profits to their various charity programs, and provide education opportunities for their workers even at a college level.
I believe the values instilled by the company and the care they show for both employees and the surrounding community has made an impact on their sales model. Many Goodwill employees would, by conventional reasoning, be poor workers, poor sales people, and irresponsible. However, I have experienced the exact opposite. I have been in more Goodwill locations than any other store and I can not think of a single bad experience. Often at checkout employees will compliment me on my finds. When I ask questions on a certain item, more often then not employees work to make the price better for me. Employees young or old, disheveled or well kept, have always made an impact on me with their kindness and constant smiles. I have shopped at many retail stores where sales people are better compensated, more experienced, and even make commission. However, I have yet to shop at a store that has consistently left an impression on me as much as that of the employees of Goodwill. I believe that the corporation has shown an unparalleled faith and commitment in its employees that have brought a sense or redemption to its employees that makes the sales experience one that always leaves me feeling touched or impacted by the genuine care the employee shows to me.
BoweryJE22