Looking for a certain item yesterday for a client at a high end store, I called them first to make sure that they had the type, color and size I was looking for rather than make an unnecessary trip.
The lady I got on the phone in the department did not seem to pay attention to what I was looking for and did not sound friendly.
I decided to take a chance and go to the store (Neiman Marcus at Short Hills Mall as they are open on Sunday).
On a previous visit, 2 weeks ago, I was helped by a very nice lady who walked around the store with me to help me find what I was there for.
I returned to her counter, willing to give her my business but she was not there.
Her colleague who was present did not make such effort.
She just pointed me in the direction of the department I had to go to.
There were plenty of salespeople on the floor, not many of them were busy.
First one I went to ask about my item just pointed me to a table without showing any intention to offer help.
Getting to the table in question, another salesman who was straightening out the display paid attention right away and even went looking in drawers at his counter for more options.
I thanked him for his help and took his card.
After this shopping experience, I wondered to myself, why be in sales if dealing with people bothers you?
Two salesclerks will get repeated business from me because I felt taken care of on our first encounter.
I am grateful for that on Monday Work Etiquette # 121
Previously: A new Meaning for Benchmark via Lonely Planet history
* Illustration is Gift Wrapping with Mizuhiki Cord as offered by Laurie on Tip Junkie (Dec 11, 2009)