In your twenties, judging by our less-than-desirable-budgets, many might overlook themselves as likely candidates to become “regulars” at select establishments (other than local bars) to reap in some added benefits at times when we don’t feel as luxurious as we’d like. Long story short? Being loyal pays off. Here’s what I found:
1. The Local Nail Salon. Sure it may be seen as an unnecessary luxury as we pamper ourselves on a weekly basis, but by contributing our $10 (plus tip) weekly manicure on a regular basis, the salon owner and their dedicated manicurists appreciate it and can offer some convenience and added pampering in their appreciation.
My local salon is within walking distance from my office so we’re pretty much all on a first-name basis, the moment I walk into the door. I typically go during my lunch break on either Thursdays or Fridays, in preparation of the weekend and to help pass the after hours til ‘clockin out. It’s come to the point where they anticipate my arrival. My loyalty has become so predictable that they also pretty much know when I’m due for an eyebrow wax. So…besides being on a first-name basis, how does this help? While it doesn’t pay off financially, it helps save me time. They hate to see their regulars sitting and waiting, so they’ll make sure you get squeezed in and are kept accommodated. What’s more, if you’re a fan of the nail-drying back massages, they will also make sure you have yours.
2. The Local Deli. There’s a corner deli also located near my office and they, too, appreciate their regulars. While they still have not caught on to my first name, they do remember the way I like my turkey, American cheese, lettuce, and tomato — half meat. Now that they’ve memorized my order, they’re sure not to charge me the extra 50 cents as they would if they didn’t know I wanted half meat.
3. Your Morning Coffee. In the summers, I’m guilty of stopping by Dunkin Donuts for iced coffees and in the winters I trade my time between Dunkin caramel lite lattes and Starbuck’s chai tea lattes, but for the most part, my loyalty is understood at Dunkies. My obsession got to the point that I’d walk into the door and the sales associate would have my medium iced coffee with skim milk sitting on the counter, simply waiting for me to pay. Again, this may not save great dollars, it does save me time — which, at 24, is sometimes more valuable!
Where are you taking advantage of our loyal habits?
