Some salespeople won’t take “no” for an answer. Would you like to sign up for the store credit card and save 10 percent? Are you on our mailing list? Would you like to grab a third item for an extra $15?
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Pushy salespeople aren’t just at the perfume counter anymore. Many stores now have credit cards and specials they expect salespeople to push on customers. From cosmetics to car sales, pushy salespeople can make shoppers go home with a bigger bill and a sense of regret.
In the moment, some shoppers choose the bigger bill to quickly end the stressful situation. “A clever salesperson or a well-trained salesperson can effectively induce a pretty overwhelming emotional state,” says therapist James Rapson, co-author of “Anxious to Please” (Sourcebooks, $14.95).
Some salespeople put on the pressure at the cash register. Others won’t let shoppers browse in peace. “Remind yourself these people are not [your] friends,” Rapson says.
And when the pressure is on, here’s how to fend off a pushy salesperson:
– Don’t defend: Don’t give reasons why you’re saying “no.” Explaining yourself to the salesperson is a trap, Rapson says.
– Ditch out: Take off when the salesperson won’t back off. Tell the salesperson you’ll return later or ask if she has a business card, Rapson says.
– Practice: Start small, saying “no” when the cashier asks for a phone number or ZIP code, Rapson suggests. Don’t feel bad if you try to say “no” and fail. “Every experience is learning,” Rapson says.
– Name it: Rapson explains it’s not improper if you call out a pushy salesperson. For example, if you want to use a coupon and the salesperson is pushing an extra purchase, Rapson suggests saying, “It sounds like you’re giving something away for free and then trying to pressure people. Is that the strategy?” The response will most likely be an apology, he says.
Shoppers ready to take it to the next level can learn to be offended. When a salesperson gets too pushy, practice looking insulted. “There are times for saying to somebody, `This is not cool, I don’t like the way you’re treating me,'” Rapson says.
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