Working in a bridal store, I have quickly come to find out that all tact and politeness have taken a serious dump in the sales industry. So many times I have been shocked and appalled by the way people treat me, the merchandise, and other customers.
So in desparate hopes to change the future as we know it, I am begging you! Please, read this and take these words with you the next time you head out to the world.
Most of this is pertaining to the bridal industry, since that is what I work in. But you can take all of these "values" and apply them to your own shopping experience.
1. Get off your phone. When you walk in, be available to listen and be guided. Too often have I been rudely interupted by cell phone conversation, which wastes time.
2. Do not come with more than 3 people (And three is pushing it). It makes the store more crowded, unorganized, and opinions start blurring your decision. Take those who's opinion you value.
3. When the employee has something to tell you, please listen. If you don't, she may saying something you need to know. Then you may ask her later, and she will be found repeating herself. Which can cause annoyance.
4. Do not touch the mannequin displays. If you like something that is on the mannequin, please ask for assistance to take it off. Doing it yourself could A) Damage Merchandise B)Ruin a display that can be tricky to put back together C) It is the employers job to do it. Let them do their job.
5. Wear appropriate garments. Many times have I help a bride zip a dress and they will be missing a bra or underwear. Not only does the employee not appreciate this, but it is important to wear the right garments of clothing to get the best idea and the best fit.
6. Wear Deodorant.
7. When finished with an item, hang it back on the hanger. Whether be a sale shirt for 5$ or a 1,000$ dress, I have seen both items poured on the dirty floor. This is very disrespectful. And again makes more pointless work for the employee.
8. If you don't fit in it, DON'T try. Don't pull at the zipper. Don't rip seams. Don't stretch the fabric. Deal with it. Get another size.
9. This one comes in parts. It involves children. As cute as they are, they are terrors in the shopping industry. A)If they can't control themselves, take them out. Or strap them in. Don't let them run wild. Don't let them touch the windows, mirrors, mannequins, merchandise, other people, etc. B)Honest to God I have had this happen in my bridal store on multiple times. Do not give your child a diaper change in the store. Let alone in the front room. Causing the whole store to smell like urine and crap. This is tacky. And disgusting. C) Don't give the kids food. Food = Crumby, sticky, gooey, and stains.
10. Say please and thank you.
