The Importance of Salespeople

With the Anniversary Sale at Nordstrom’s, I was reminded of how critical salespeople

are to your shopping experience. Done correctly, they can forever change how you

shop, saving you time and money.

Though I shop online regularly, there are items I only find in person. Consider the

associate an extension of you in this situation. They can cull through hundreds of

garments and can walk you through the store during your shop, highlighting items so

you don’t get overwhelmed.

First, an associate sees all incoming inventory, including rare brands and online returns

not sold in the store, as well as brand sizing. If you share your style, sizes, your

preferred labels, or wardrobe needs, they can always be on the lookout. They can track

your purchases, knowing what’s in your wardrobe or on your wish list, and can even

help enforce your own self-imposed shopping rules.

Second, book an appointment, particularly if you’re short on time. Associates can set

limited items aside until your appointment during sales or alert you to trunk shows, so

you know when it’s best to shop.

If you’re event shopping, a good associate can pull items and have them in a dressing

room waiting for you when you arrive. Additionally, they can hunt down coordinating

pieces, and accessories, or bring something online into the store for your appointment.

Finally, a good associate should be in contact with you throughout the year and alert

you to events or specials. They can help you buy gifts for friends and family taking

the guesswork out of it.

Tammy’s Truism: A good associate can find limited items and bring them in for you. Once you’ve found someone you like and trust, continue to cultivate them, even if you don’t always buy something.