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In times of increasing economic downturn and fiercer retail competition the pushy salesperson species is proliferating rather than dying out. Hence, it is important that you enter any retail encounter well armed and forewarned.

Primarily, always remember that behind every pushy salesperson is the desire to make the sale, pocket commission and put food on the table. This assessment may be crude. But it is true. This knowledge, along with a measure of humility will set you in good stead for any encounter with a pushy salesperson. Always try and remember that they are just trying to make a living. Having said this, don't be shy to use the following tactics.

First and foremost, if you are just browsing make sure you ensure you tell the salesperson this at your first opportunity. Assure the salesperson that you appreciate their interest and that you will call on them if you have any questions or if you wish to discuss anything in detail.

A salesperson who respects the above is just that. One who does not has earned the title of a pushy salesperson. If they persist tell them politely once more that you are simply "having a look" and that you don't require any assistance.

When it does come time to strike the deal the rules are simple.

1. Maintain the upper hand

2. Speak calmly and politely

3. Keep sight of what you want and what you want it for

4. Politely stop the salesperson anytime they start to ramble on and put them back on track

5. If it doesn't seem like you are going to get what you want, thank the salesperson and walk away. You can always get it at another store or time

And finally, the classic age old trick of a pushy salesperson. It starts with something like "I shouldn't really be doing this deal; we'll actually be losing money on this deal". Well there is quite a simple way to turn this one on its head and leave the pushy salesperson reeling. Tell them that you wouldn't feel right taking advantage of them like that, thank them for their time and start making your way to the door of the shop. If they had seemed cool and calm to that point that will quickly change.

So in your next retail encounter be well armed and prepared. A pushy salesperson is just trying to make a living and they are just as susceptible to clever tactic as you can be.

Learn more about this author, Ashley Wright.
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