Things not to say to Customers when you Work in Retail
When you work in retail, you will need to carefully watch what you say. There are many great statements to say to customers, and things that you should most definitely never say. The following are some statements to avoid.
I do not like the product
It does not matter if you think that the product is the ugliest, most ridiculous invention ever. Do not tell the customer that. Your job is to sell this product, not give your personal opinion. If your supervisor hears you saying something like that, you may be heading for the unemployment line. Let the customer make their own choice on whether they like the product.
You can get a better deal somewhere else
Again, it does not matter how true this statement is. People buying the products at your store are paying your salary. If they want to price around, then they can, but you do not need to be doing it for them. You do not have to lie and say it is the best price but do not say that it is not.
Hurry and make a decision
If you rush someone while they are shopping in retail, then they probably will make a quick decision – to leave the store. People do not like to be rushed. Some customers will go back and forth in deciding whether to get a product. You need to be there anyways, so do not tell them to hurry. Obviously the only time it is appropriate is if you are closing.
Can you afford it?
You never ever want to suggest that someone cannot afford something. Unfortunately, some clerks prejudge people when they walk into a store by their age, race, look, clothing or more. You may act superior to them, even suggesting that they might not be able to afford a product. This is one of the fastest ways that you can insult people. If they cannot pay for it, then they obviously will not buy it. If you treat them badly, then they may just leave.
You are wrong
It does not matter if they are. Let them think the wrong thing. Some people just love to get into a fight. If there is a problem with a customer then apologize and try to make the best of it to keep the customer and not have them speak poorly of you to all of their friends.
Your job in retail is to sell as much as possible. Try to avoid the above statements which can sabotage your business and career.