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I constantly feel like any interaction with a sales person is just a big con. Whether it’s a car, insurance, an apartment, internet, or a specialty item that I’m interested in but not an expert on. I always feel completely lost and uncomfortable and like no matter what decision I make I’m making the wrong one.
I’ve spent a fair number of time in computer and photography shops, and also been in the retail side for the latter. Here’re my tips for retail stuff!
Always know what you’re looking to get. Do your own research first. If you need to rely on the sales person to make a recommendation, you’ve already lost. There’s always a community of enthusiasts to rely on. Find them.
Always do a price check with various reputable sources first. That way you have a rough idea of the price range.
If add-ons of any kind are being recommended, say no and research first. Don’t fall to pressure tactics to get them. If the salesperson is geniunely being helpful with the add-ons, they’ll be happy to let you come back another day to get it. If they’re saying you have to act now, it’s a high-pressure tactic to sell higher-margin products to pad their bottom line.
If a similar but alternative product is being hawked at you, again, do research first then come back. There’s always a motive behind that. Sometimes it’s just a need to clear stock of an otherwise decent product, but usually it’s because the profit margin is higher, there’re sales targets to hit etc.