How To Size Up a Salesperson by The Approach

Okay, here's what goes on in the mind of a 'good' salesperson.  The first step is to engage you in conversation.  This keeps you from answering with a 'no' which shuts down the sales pitch.  If a retail employee asks you if he or she can help you then that person gets pay by the hour and receives no pressure to 'sell.'  You see, that question elicits the standard answer, "No, I'm just looking."  But just when the employee begins to walk away, you ask a question. Have you ever wondered why you say 'no' when asked if you need help?  Here's my interpretation.

Hi, may I help you?"  When an employee asks this question it could mean not enough sales training or they feel overwhelmed with the number of tasks assigned and are eager to get on with their work.  (The largest controllable expense of any company is payroll.  Have you noticed the decrease in employee help these days?  That's because the tasks put on a single employee used to be shared by two or three!)

You, the consumer, responds with "No, I'm just looking!"  Why do you respond that way?  It's because you don't want to be sold, or talked into something you do not want.  However, the truth is you have a couple of questions and 'do' need some help.  This happens millions of times a day in the retail world.

Important!  If you are well-informed and know what product fits your needs, then this is the floor person that will best serve you.  Chances are he or she will be genuine and try to satisfy 'your' needs.

Alright, back to the 'good' salesperson.  The 'good' salesperson that engages you in conversation is ready to pick your pocket to pad theirs.  Don't misunderstand... there are exceptions.  This is just a generalization.  Just be aware that this salesperson is confident, usually knowledgeable and loves to brag about their conquests.

I did it!

 The purpose of this blog is to help 'you' become a savvy consumer and enable 'you' to brag about 'your' conquest.  Doesn't it feel good when you can brag about your 'good deal?'

The point is you must do your research.  Now-a-days with the convenience of the Internet there is no excuse.  If you walk into the selling ring without doing your product research prepare to lose.  You'll limp away having spent more money on features you may never use, pay more for accessories you don't need and later feel like a chump.

 Warning!  If you find yourself 'just looking' and a salesperson tries to engage you in conversation... Do Not Buy Anything that day.  Go home and do your research!  Why be a chump?

 I want to hear from you.  Has anyone experienced buyer's remorse lately?  How about a short story where you tangled with a slick salesperson!  How about some tips and tricks you use when you're confronted by a pushy salesperson.  Please help us all learn how to be savvy consumers and not walk away feeling like a chump!