If working at GODIVA Chocolatier for the past few months has taught me anything, it's how to be a killer sales associate! As a matter of fact, when I first started working as a Part-Time Chocolatier for GODIVA, I never thought that my one true role would be to assist customers on the sales floor. And since I have been working for the company for almost 3 months now, I figured it was about time that I share all of the tips and tricks that I've learned about how you can become the best sales associate you can possibly be! To find out more, check out the following tips:
1. Be proactive.
First and foremost, one of the most important tips that I can give you is the fact that, as a sales associate, you must always be proactive. Constantly look around and assist every customer you see, making sure to take action if you happen to notice any subtle signs that may indicate that they are in need of your assistance. Some of these subtle signs include that the customer is looking around the room, waving, or showing signs of confusion. However, it is very important that you refrain from asking the customer whether or not they need assistance to an extent that they may find overwhelming.
2. Respect your manager(s) and coworkers at all times.
The second most important tip that I can give you is to respect your managers and coworkers at all times. One way to do this is to think about them as your second family and to refrain from initiating or engaging in any gossip about them whatsoever. After all, you wouldn't disrespect your family now, would you? Also, keep in mind that your manager(s) is the one who ended up hiring you in the first place. Besides, working with your manager(s) and coworkers won't be easy if there's tension present among all of you.
3. Know and stress your store's current promotions.
This is another big one. After all, how can you be a killer sales associate if you aren't aware of the promotions that are currently going on in your store? And trust me, the more you say them, the easier it will be for you to remember them. In addition, you must also make sure to stress those promotions to your customers when appropriate. For instance, let's say that your store is currently having a promotion on a particular box of chocolates that is 40% off. If you notice that a customer is standing near or holding that box in their hands, then that is your chance to go in for the kill and promote that sale!
4. Assist your fellow coworkers when necessary.
So this tip is pretty self-explanatory. If you notice that your coworker(s) seems to be struggling with someone or something, try your best to assist that coworker in any way that you can, especially if you happen to be free. Like I said in tip number 2, you and your coworkers are more than just a group of people working in the same store. You are family, and families always have each other's backs.
5. Arrive to work prepared and on time, making sure to inform your managers in advance if you are unable to attend your scheduled shift.
Obviously, arriving to work prepared and on time is an absolute MUST, especially if you want to be considered one of your store's top employees. And if for some reason you are unable to attend your scheduled shift on time or at all, make sure to let your managers know as soon as possible so as to avoid any issues from taking place. In all honesty, I believe that if you've committed to a particular activity, you need to stay committed to it. And that means showing up for all of your scheduled shifts on time and ready to work no matter what!
6. Never let your customers (or anyone) get the best of you.
Let's face it, we're all going to have to deal with customers who may not have the nicest personalities in the world. The same goes for other people you may happen to encounter in your lifetime. But you can't just let them get the best of you and ruin what is supposed to be an enjoyable and rewarding activity for you. Instead, remain calm and try to counter the person's seemingly rude personality with kind words, making sure to avoid fueling their anger any further. In addition, don't be afraid to let one of your managers know of the issue, or to even call security if you feel it is necessary.
7. Take your time and ask questions when necessary.
If there's something that everyone in this world has in common, it's the fact that they're not perfect, no matter who they are. So if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask them. After all, the more questions you ask, the more you'll learn, and that's what will eventually make you a killer sales associate. Also, never rush to get something done simply because you are afraid of what others will say or think of you if they don't consider you to be quick enough in their minds. Remember, everyone moves at their own pace, and you'll get faster with accomplishing tasks the more you practice them.
8. Be genuine and try your best to form a strong relationship with everyone you meet.
Let's be honest, we all love getting to interact with that one employee who's always super nice, bubbly, and down-to-earth with us. And as a sales associate, that's exactly that kind of person you need to be in order to get your customers to appreciate you and your merchandise. Ask them questions that show you are genuinely interested in connecting with them on a personal level, and don't be afraid to compliment them every one in a while. Make them feel as comfortable around you as you are around your best friends. Trust me, this will make it a lot easier for you to attract customers and sell your store's merchandise!
9. Have confidence in yourself and in your abilities.
What do all great sales associates have in common? Why, confidence in themselves and in their abilities of course! I mean, think about it. You wouldn't have been hired to take on the job you currently have if your manager didn't think you have what it takes to be able to handle it and be amazing at it.
10. Have fun while still maintaining a professional attitude.
When I say "have fun," I mean be that super nice, fun, and bubbly employee that everyone wants to be around. Be that spark that makes your store a positive, fun place for all of your customers and employees to enjoy, and don't forget to maintain a professional attitude in doing so!
