Ever hear people describe someone as a “used-car salesman?” Why do we use that term so much when it comes to salespeople? What is it about a used-car salesman that turns people off so much? What’s wrong with trying to sell someone something you think they need and want?
Answer: because nobody likes to be “sold.” We like to want something, and see its value on our own without being “pushed” into seeing it or wanting it.
Now let me say here before I upset anyone that I have met a lot of really nice used-car salesmen, and most of the ones I met are not like the cliché. That term started long before I was born, and I just prefer to use the term “pushy.”
Recently, I was in a small store and I overheard the owner telling the cashier to “push the little items near the register.” The cashier had a pained look on her face, and said to the owner, “People get annoyed when I do that. They don’t like to be pushed into buying something they can clearly see, but aren’t interested in.” The owner gave a sound of disgust, and disappeared into the back of the store.
That little conversation made me think about my own business. Do I ever try to “push” people into a sale? Do you ever do that in your business? It’s something we all need to think about.
As a consumer, I enjoy going into a shop and perusing the shelves and racks. I like to take my time, and see everything that is available. I love to hear about specials and sales, and I always love getting into a conversation with the owner or clerk. If there’s something special I’m searching for, I tell them, and I’m happy if they direct me to it. I enjoy a carefree, pressure-free shopping environment, and as a business owner, that’s what I like to provide my customers with as well. Not everyone who walks into my shop will buy something, and that’s okay. I want them to be able to look, and enjoy without feeling the slightest pressure to buy. Because I know if they have a great time shopping, even just looking, they’ll come back again and again. If I were to follow them around the store, telling them that they “need” this or “just have to have” that, they’d never come back in. I’d be “pushy” and I’d never see them again. I want people to buy from me, but I want them to buy what they WANT, and what suits them. I want them to ENJOY their shopping experience with me, whether it’s in person or online. I strive to treat people the way I want to be treated! That part, I have found, is crucial in maintaining a successful business!! Treat people the way you want to be treated. It works in all aspects of life, not just in business.
It’s okay to be helpful and suggestive when it comes to your customers. Think about how you like to shop. It’s never okay to be pushy or overbearing. Don’t try to make a “sale,” instead try to make a friend who will remember you treated them with kindness and courtesy.
Tami Loves…all the friends we’ve made who come into our shop! Thank you!
