You Have To Spend Money To Save Money!

I start at a company that offers an employee savings website; you log on and it gives you “exclusive savings on everyday purchases.” Well, it is supposed to. I have never been a fan of these types of things and feel these are just cheap, low-effort ways for companies to look like they care.

One thing that surprises me is how much they try to ram it down your throat; it is mentioned three times in my induction, I have two emails in my first week, and then I get another email the following week asking why I didn’t sign up.

After a few months of noncompliance, I seem to have attracted the attention of one particular HR busybody who must be the one getting some sort of bonus out of all this.

Human Resources: “I noticed you haven’t signed up still. Are you having issues?”

Me: “No, thanks. I’m just not interested.”

Human Resources: “But there are so many savings! I think you should give it a go.”

Me: “No, thanks. I have checked the website and it doesn’t look worth it.”

This carries on until they realise that they are getting nowhere. Eventually, they go to my manager!

Manager: “I have heard from HR that you are refusing to complete some forms?”

Me: “What? No! They keep badgering me about the discount scheme thing.”

Manager: “Oh! So, you don’t want to sign up for it?”

Me: “Is it mandatory?”

Manager: “No.”

Me: “Do you actually use it?”

Manager: *Pauses* “Well… No, actually.”

Me: “Then no, thank you. Honestly, jumping through hoop after hoop to save pennies a month, or ‘saving money’ on brands that actually cost you more, isn’t actually helping anyone. Look.” *Opens the website* “Savings on round-the-world cruises, diamond jewellery, and high-end appliances. How does that help 99% of people that work here?”

He said nothing. A few months later, the scheme was still going but massively reduced. The company announced funding for the onsite food, reducing costs for everyone! Clearly, I wasn’t the only one not impressed by the current offerings.