Suggestive Selling

"Another holiday...more holiday themed products to push! UHHH!"  That's what I used to think when my boss would tell us we had to "suggest" these things to customers. I have since changed my attitude.
I remember telling my district manager that I found it difficult to try to sell all this stuff, that I wasn't good at "forcing" people to buy what they didn't really want or need. She asked me what I thought of the products and I agreed that they were cute and that some could be fun or useful. She asked me about the products...did I know how they worked or who could use them or what they could be used for. I told her everything that I knew and about how I would/could use them myself.
My D.M. then told me that all I had to do was just to share the information with the customer. They would make their own decision on whether they wanted to buy it or not. In essence, we were just providing them a service by telling them about the product. When I looked at it like that, it made sense. We don't tie them up and pull their wallets out and take their money. It IS their decision. And it IS part of my job to share the information.
I now feel more comfortable about this aspect of my job. And it also helps when people suggest things to me. We all make our own decisions. Hopefully, this will give you a different outlook, too.

The Golden Rule

 When I was a kid, the Golden Rule was pounded into our heads. In case anyone is not familiar with it: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."  In other words, treat people like you'd want to be treated. It took a long time for this to actually sink in, but I finally got it. And I apply it daily to my retail life.

 I try to treat each customer with the respect and attention they deserve. After all, they came into my store to spend money. We must make sure they're treated properly. 
 I know what you're thinking. "How do you treat someone well, when they came in with a poor attitude?" I'll give you a little tip about how I handle that.

 At our store, we always greet the customer. I always say something like, "Good morning/afternoon!" I try to read the way they answer. If it seems like they're not exactly in a chipper mood, I find an opportunity when I can ask them one simple question. "How's your day going today?" And then I listen to their answer. If they're having a bad day, it always helps their attitude to have someone listen. Think about it. Doesn't it help you, too?

By the way, this question also helps when I'm the customer and the cashier/clerk/associate that's waiting on me is not in a great frame of mind. Everyone just likes to have someone listen. I think if you try this approach, you'll see that it works.

Thanks for listening to me.