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Like most of the civilized world, even I will browse or purchase big-ticket, expensive items from time to time. It’s a hoot!
A perfect example: I wanted a new queen size bed. You see, my furniture for sleeping was very comfortable at the beginning, but, the last several months, it’s been a real achy pain, (both literally and figuratively.) Thus, I thought to “upgrade” to a better model for my bedroom set was probably the way to go now.
In particular, I yearned an adjustable, durable, ergonomic, Tempur-Pedic queen bed for $100 or less. (Although, I can spend a little bit more, more or less.)
So as I begin my story, let’s talk about two peddlers in the way that they presented themselves…
A Cardboard Box
One representative was aggressive, uncouth and push right from the start with an expression on his face that was hard to describe; sort of between gazed over and overworked, waning very quickly with no enthusiasm whatsoever.
Moreover, describing the supposed bed in his own awkward style, he soliloquized of all the features of the “cardboard box.” In other words,
- unimpressive
- unwanted,
- uninterested.
Elementary Yet Important
More than that, when I asked several questions that I thought were very elementary yet important in my thought process on whether I was going to buy this particular bed or not, instead of embracing that information, this person rejected it wholeheartedly, talking about price, price, price, price, and price.
And here’s the kicker: when I left asking all of my questions, I concluded by saying, “Thanks for your time,” in a very calm and respectful manner, this individual rebuked me saying that I was rude and uncooperative.
Really! Do you ever think that I will purchase from this person either now or in the future after his performance and demeanor? I believe you already know that answer, don’t you?
Mirror Image
Compare and contrast the second individual that I met in a different store with the same criteria: a comfy, quality queen bed, affordable and long-lasting.
Like a mirror image, he was:
- Polite, courteous and friendly
- Explained the different models of a bed available, and moreover, created a glossary of definitions, (like firm versus plush, hard versus soft,) to make sure that I was comfortable and knowledgeable
- Dive in with open-ended questions about what the best nights rest would be like:
- my sleeping habits
- how many hours do I want to go to bed every day?
- am I tired when I wake up?
- Negotiated my budget and finances, not to rake me over the coals, but to work with me to find out what was comfortable per month
Other words, a tenacious yet confident gentleman indeed.
And for me, not only was I completely satisfied with this new purchase, but I have very good feelings regarding his style, talents and the firm overall, as well.
Beyond the Heart of a Champion
Yes, certainly, the dynamics of this example was totally accurate and truthful. But it goes beyond this to areas on customer service and salesmanship.
All of us can be a heart of a champion; to go apart from the normal aspects and excel astronomically in commerce. To be courageous, to absorb as much information as possible in this field; to outshine not only one’s competitors and colleagues alike and then go even further.
It is the portrayal of leadership; the depiction of compassion; the soul of persistence.
Do you have the stuff?
Sleep tight.