What can be done about pushy/annoying salespeople?

Question

Obviously economic times are tough, but it seems as though because of the times there is a rise in overly-aggressive salespeople in shops that I know are not commission-based. There are some stores I used to love that I've stopped shopping in altogether because I can't walk in without being hounded wherever I turn to open a credit card account or a long list of sales specials I don't care about that take a lot of time out of my shopping.

I don't blame the shop workers, having been one I know they're told to be pushy, but is it appropriate to complain to a manager about the approaches they make their employees take? I feel like if someone informs them that their tactics are making them lose business they may think twice about being so pushy. If not, what's a polite way to get these people to leave you alone when they start to launch into their sales spiel?

Answer 1

I feel your pain. Credit card offers, special offers, buy this and get points that you can spend on something.

You can tell them: "I'm just looking, by myself. I'll ask you if I need help. Thanks."  That should get rid of them.

Answer 2

consider yourself lucky to even have MET a warm, moving body. 98% of the places I shop, you'll hear an echo, rather than a hello.

Answer 3

I can see your point . I used to be in sales myself and it's like walking on a tightrope. If we leave the customer to their shopping,SOMEONE will start complaining that they couldn't find a sales person nearby t help them. If we hound the customer at every turn,they complain to the manager

Answer 4

This is what I think is right: They should ask you if you need help with anything because that's what they're there for, to assist you if you need it. However, if you say you don't need help or will let them know if you do (which is completely fine) then it should end at that. If they keep bothering you then yeah it's too pushy.

Unfortunately this is how some people are trained to do their jobs. It's good that you have an understanding of that. But if it gets too out of hand which it sounds like it is then maybe complain to either a manager or corporate. But try not to single anyone out cause that is how they are all trained.

Just to let you know I work in retail and coming from "the other side's" point of view we hate being that way just as much as you as the customers do, believe me. The only thing is, is that if we don't work like that it could cost us our jobs. Also, some people are not like that all the time. I know in my case we are only like that if we are being evaulated by a district manager or what not because they are really strict about that stuff. But I completely agree with you that customers should not be treated like that. They should be offered help, helped if they need it, and left alone if they don't.

Answer 5

Kick them where it hurts !  

Answer 6

Tell them you're just looking.

Answer 7

if you want them to stop bothering you just politely say, "no thanks, i'm not interested". although you're right, there are certain places where it's expected of employees. i worked at safeway and we were expected to always greet the customers and offer help and information about the products. there are people who come in and "shop" you and look for these things, then report it to the managers. if you don't do well, the manager comes and haves a chat with you. so those salespeople are probably just playing it safe!

Answer 8

Just look at them directly without expression and say, "I will find you if I need you."  Continue to look at them in the eye for a few more seconds and then turn away.  I promise you that they will leave you alone for the duration of your shopping excursion.

Answer 9

I know this answer sucks, but I think, even though it is sooo annoying, the right thing to do is to just keep saying no thank you. Unfortunately, the sales people are being told to follow customers around. I am sure if you were to politely complain to a manager the sales person would still get chewed out. ("You need to follow them and make sure they don't need anything, and if you see them eyeball something tell them how great it is." "I just got a complaint that you are being too pushy. Let the customer breathe" "You aren't helping the customer enough" etc etc) I think its a no win situation for you and the sales person.

Answer 10

Just politely state that you are not interested.  Example I am sorry  but I am not interested.  Do not give any reasons.  Another good phrase is I am sorry but I just can't right now.  I would let management know that you don't like it and will shop on line until it stops.

Answer 11

Just say,"No, thank you, I'll let you know if I need help."

Answer 12

I had a fellow call me the other day and told me he was selling hearing aids.  I told him to speak louder that I didn't hear too well.  Then I told him that I was sorry sonny but, I just can't hear you and then I hung up.

Answer 13

Keep you head down and walk fast ;)

Answer 14

I know what you mean.  I think the only thing you can do is say you don't need any help, you are just looking, and will ask for help if needed.  If they come up to you again then go and have a polite talk with the manager, but try to talk to the salespeople too.