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subscribe to style file blog via RSSThe Hard Sell: Cha-Ching or Buh-Bye?
December 23, 2008 11:35 am
Apparently, this holiday season has some salespeople working extra hard to get that merch moving. In addition to hovering and offering unsolicited advice, there’s also dancing and singing going on. But does the hard sell help or hinder? I tend to believe that less is more. When I walk into a store and an overly enthusiastic salesperson doesn’t let me browse in peace, I walk out. In fact, there’s one boutique I used to frequent but no longer do because of a pushy owner who would goad me into plunking my already weary credit card down simply by repeating “That looks amazing on you” like some sort of magical retail mantra. And you could only return for a credit or exchange. Forbidden! But I suppose there’s a fine line between helpful and annoying—and every shopper’s tolerance level differs. What about you, Style Filers? How do you feel about pushy salespeople? How do you like to shop?
tags: Hard Sell, Holidays, shopping
I personally hate when salespeople hover over me while I’m trying to shop. I know what looks good on me and what I want to buy, and if I want help, I’ll ask for it.
By chaneladdict03 on 12/23/08 at 1:09 pmI think especially during this recession period the saleman/woman will even try to push harder then ever before. Not at Lauren, Jacobs or Valentino or Prada, but more the stores like Macys, Saks etc. But whatever time it’s in the economy I hate to pushy or hovering salesman/woman. They are irritating, just as you made up your mind they interfere with your choice. Because this or that peice looks better then what you have chosen. Is that always right? NO in 80% of these cases you choose the right one and the people at Macys, the Gap and a lot of others are wrong. You always have to choose your own style and some salespeople are not aware of that fact or ignore that simple fact. Happy holiday Meenal and a Merry Christmas, actually meant for all the readers of thies Style File Blog. Ciao from Italy e un buon Natale
By Valerio on 12/23/08 at 2:44 pmI hate when salespeople follow me around and bug me too. They really make me want to leave the shop. I understand that it is important to draw buyers’ attention to their products, but a balance between helping and letting the shoppers look on their own is definitely necessary.
By CarouselAddicted on 12/25/08 at 3:42 pmUnfortunately, the sales person is usually pushed to sell for various reasons; commission, quota, the boss, competition, whatever. The best tactic I use is the “rare item search.” The process is simple; When approached by an enthused sales person or owner, ask for something out of the ordinary. For Example:
Sales Person: Good Morning! Is there something you’re looking for today?
You: Yes, do you have any size 13 Jimmy Choo pumps in purple? It’s for a friend of mine.
or
You: Do you carry any chopsticks and nine volt batteries?
If they know there inventory, and obviously say “no” then simply say, “Well, I’ll just look around. I’ll let you know if I need any thing, thank you.” This would stop them for going any further, and move on.
Another method is to let them WORK! If they are there to help assist your needs, then let them. Have them make reservations for you at your favourite restaurant. If they choose to follow, ask them to hold some of your other shopping bags. Ask for some water with a slice of cucumber. Start gossiping about your neighbours. Have fun! With any luck, they just might keep there distance from you altogether.
The main thing is to be honest and straight forward with them. If you desire to be left alone, say so, and remember to do so in a polite manner. We’re not savages, after all.
By nebcat on 12/29/08 at 7:20 pm