Basenotes › Basenotes Forums › Fragrance Discussion › Female Fragrance Discussion › SA Rant- Because sometimes you have to!
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:

SA Rant- Because sometimes you have to!

post #1 of 44
11/20/09 at 3:58pm
Thread Starter 
I'm so sorry to post AGAIN today. I just had to get this off my chest because it was so very frustrating!

I spend a decent amount of money on a regular basis at the local Nordstrom's. Luckily, I have a regular SA I work with who knows what I like and who makes my shopping experiences much more bearable.

I am not a Nordstrom's kind of woman, honestly. I live with a moderate income and though I am put-together, I don't spend a lot of money on clothes or shoes. I save my extra income for perfume, which I think of as another art, but one that is much more affordable than other art mediums. Someday I'll hopefully be able to set aside a little for like, a Jeff Koons or something. But now I stick with perfume!

Anyway, when my SA isn't around, I have such a hard time with the other women at the fragrance counter! They take one look at me and give me the lip-curl. I've gotten it so many times, I'm almost accustomed to it. And then I seldom get any proper attention when I'm looking to purchase something. They give me short, impatient answers to questions or chuckle at my questions like they're inane.

Today I stopped in and my SA wasn't there. So I was puttering around and resniffed the L'Eau Ambree, which I find lovely, though too soft for me. A SA was right there, so I thought I'd ask her something I'd been wondering for a long time. I asked her if they carried the new Prada in a body powder, since it was so lovely and would be a gorgeous scent for a powder.

!! Her reaction mortified me! She rolled her eyes pretty openly and took the bottle off the counter and away from me like I was going to STEAL it. And then she said "UM, NO," with a little scoff at the end.

There were other shoppers around me who could hear the whole exchange, so I felt completely awkward and just laughed a little, confused, and said "Oh, well. I thought I'd ask-" And she WALKED AWAY from me, halfway through my sentence. It was so appalling. I blushed and left quickly after.

When I got home, I was looking at their website to read a description on the Dior Pondicherry I saw (but didn't test) and what was there? On their own website?? L'Eau Ambree in a body talc!

So absurd! I am so tired of obnoxiously snobby, ignorant SAs!

Anyone else have SA horror stories to get off their chests so I'm not the only one ranting?
Reply
Reply

Features on Basenotes

Greatest Hits: Annick Menardo
Petals Falling From The Sky - A Report From The Cote d'Azur's Bataille De Fleurs
Basenotes Reader Awards 2013 - Finalists Announced.
post #2 of 44
11/20/09 at 4:32pm
Hi latelittlesleeper,
I'm sorry that SA was so rude and poorly trained. Perhaps your superior knowledge of scents in front of other clients intimidated her and she had to run off in shame . I think many BNers can relate to how you feel,; it's certainly happened to me as well. I've developed some strategies to cope with the obnoxious SA behavior.
If had a SA done that to me, I would say to the other folks around- "did you SEE THAT, she just walked off on me and I'm seriously shopping- sheesh, guess there's no recession HERE".

I reccommend you remember your special SA's name and specifically ask for her when you arrive in the dept. if she's not, ask for a manager.Make sure you work into your banter that you want her because she is not only knowledgeable about their stock, she actually treats you with respect , and you look forward to shopping there for years to come- as long as they hire folks like her.

assertiveness while being nice is an art you have to practice!
Reply
Reply
post #3 of 44
11/20/09 at 4:35pm
Dear latelittlesleeper,

I do feel for you, and I have a suggestion. The next time you go into Nordstrom and see your regular salesperson, draw them aside and have a discreet little chat about what happened today. Keep the conversation centered on the fact that you have been accustomed to a certain level of courtesy at the store because of your good experiences with her so far, and how shocked you were to be subjected to something different. It should be a short conversation, and maybe end (if you feel like it) with your purchasing the body talc you wanted. I have a feeling that "your" salesperson might be moved to speak with her errant co-worker or perhaps to their mutual supervisor about the incident. If this is busting someone, then so be it - Nordstrom needs to put some muscle into their claims of superior customer service. I've observed a lot of backsliding at Nordy of late - which makes me purchase more online, so I don't even have to see anyone. And guess what? If more people avoid going into the store, I guess sales associates will get laid off because there will be fewer people to serve.

Don't let this ruin your evening.

Cheers,
J.
Reply
Reply
post #4 of 44
11/20/09 at 5:01pm
Go ahead, rant! This situation calls for it. Good way to deal with it, Jardanel. There is no excuse for rudeness.
Reply
Reply
post #5 of 44
11/20/09 at 5:02pm
Wow, I'd have a chat with the department manager pronto about that SA. One SA with a bad attitude can infect the others-- and then customers learn to shop elsewhere.

She needs better training. Or the boot!
Reply
Reply
post #6 of 44
11/20/09 at 5:12pm
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by knit_at_nite View Post

Hi latelittlesleeper,
I'm sorry that SA was so rude and poorly trained. Perhaps your superior knowledge of scents in front of other clients intimidated her and she had to run off in shame . I think many BNers can relate to how you feel,; it's certainly happened to me as well. I've developed some strategies to cope with the obnoxious SA behavior.
If had a SA done that to me, I would say to the other folks around- "did you SEE THAT, she just walked off on me and I'm seriously shopping- sheesh, guess there's no recession HERE".

I reccommend you remember your special SA's name and specifically ask for her when you arrive in the dept. if she's not, ask for a manager.Make sure you work into your banter that you want her because she is not only knowledgeable about their stock, she actually treats you with respect , and you look forward to shopping there for years to come- as long as they hire folks like her.

assertiveness while being nice is an art you have to practice!

Oh, I do know her by name, Linda! I've cultivated a nice relationship with her, and she knows that with very little work, she can easily get a regular commission out of me! She's very polite and thoughtful and knows what I like, so she seldom wastes our time on things I'd never buy (like a Juicy Couture or something).

But she doesn't work often! And since I have a little one, I don't have a regular schedule when I can get there, so I end up with random SAs a lot. I'll usually have something particular in mind, when Linda isn't there so I don't have to ask a lot of questions. I will definitely think about asking for the Manager next time and sharing my appreciation of Linda! Good idea!

It's so funny, because if you knew me, you'd be surprised that I turn into such a little mouse at Nordstrom's! I'm very outspoken and assertive in almost every other way, in life. I guess it's just one place where I really feel like an outsider. I don't shop there in any other way, so I don't feel comfortable there already. So I clam up! And I always feel a little speechless and appalled when people are so pointedly rude! I'm almost too surprised to react properly!

Anyway, thank you so much for reading my ridiculous rant and offering some good feedback.
Reply
Reply
post #7 of 44
11/20/09 at 5:13pm
Wow accusing you of stealing is a biggie maybe you need to file a complaint at the service desk for that

PS I've had more SA troubles than anyone should ever have, right now i think stores aren't training as well as they should be
Reply
Reply
post #8 of 44
11/20/09 at 5:25pm
Thread Starter 
lightgreen22 I'm sorry for your SA troubles too! It's starting to seem like a necessary evil, when perfume shopping. I have a friend who stopped shopping at the counters completely because she was so put-off by their attitudes. The SA didn't outright accuse me of stealing, but her body language couldn't be construed otherwise. It was so blatant, it made me feel like a punk or something. And I'm a 29-year-old woman! I was there with my baby in her stroller! It was completely absurd!

30Roses I wish I had asked for her name, so I could complain about her directly. But to be honest, the problem is a general problem there. She was the offender this week, but I've had others be rude and impatient too. She just happened to be the worse/last straw!

Kumquat thanks! I felt kind of bad just going BLARGH all over the board! But I was STEAMING.

Jardanel, thank you! You have some good advice. I'll definitely talk to my SA about it. I just wish it was an isolated experience. I've had a lot of less-than-stellar experiences at the Nordies. This just happened to be the worst! They must know that their fellow SAs are terrible! I've been surprised continually how rude and also how ignorant they are, about their product. It's sort of a little dream of mine to someday work a counter for fun, when I don't need a big paycheck and when my kids are older. I'd love to help people find fragrance! But it always seems like they'd rather hire inexperienced young women who don't know anything about scent than people who are actually competent. I hate to say it, but it's all about looks now.
Reply
Reply
post #9 of 44
11/20/09 at 5:42pm
latelittlesleeper.....what a snobby little cow that SA is. I suggest you complain . I agree with 30 Roses and Kumquat. Go ahead and rant ......
How I dislike being discriminated against over appearance.You need a hug and if I were there, I would probably go with you to Nordstorm's and give them a piece of my mind .
Reply
Reply
post #10 of 44
11/20/09 at 6:03pm
LLS we have all been through this. That's why it's so important to have a "perfume buddy" where you like to buy perfume. Most of the time I'm completely ignored, which doesn't bother me because I usually don't want to be bothered. Whew! I wish Diva could have been there shopping with you. Honey, she would have been in a corner in the backroom looking crazy when I got through with her. It's funny because when I go into neimans now, they all speak to me because they know that I buy alot of perfume. I'll have them in that backroom looking for stuff or have them pull things out of that case left and right lol. The more of an attitude they display, the harder I make them work. Once I finish running them to death I tell them thank you and that I'll come back and buy those things when my "perfume buddy" is working. It's even sweeter when you come back and get a those perfumes from your "perfume buddy" when "ms/mr snooty" is working lol. I have a buddy in each of my nordstroms. I get most of my perfume from nordstrom. They can be a tad on the snooty side.

You're a BNer now! Show no fear! Next time make that snooty acting SA work.
Reply
Reply
post #11 of 44
11/20/09 at 6:19pm
  • kbe
  • offline
  • Gender:
Quote:
Originally Posted by latelittlesleeper View Post

... I asked her if they carried the new Prada in a body powder, since it was so lovely and would be a gorgeous scent for a powder.

!! Her reaction mortified me! She rolled her eyes pretty openly and took the bottle off the counter and away from me like I was going to STEAL it. And then she said "UM, NO," with a little scoff at the end.

There were other shoppers around me who could hear the whole exchange, so I felt completely awkward and just laughed a little, confused, and said "Oh, well. I thought I'd ask-" And she WALKED AWAY from me, halfway through my sentence. It was so appalling. I blushed and left quickly after.

When I got home, I was looking at their website to read a description on the Dior Pondicherry I saw (but didn't test) and what was there? On their own website?? L'Eau Ambree in a body talc!


Go to their website again. Find the L'Eau Ambree Body Talc page. Copy and print it. Circle the item boldly several times in red crayon. Take it unfolded in a plain manila holder to the store when you-know-who is behind the fragrance counter. Stand your ground and silently stare directly at her until she comes over to you. When she does (and she will) take the copy out and sloooowly put it on the counter face up so she can read it. When she looks down to view it, say quite loudly while looking around at anyone nearby :"Ummm..Oh my, seems we made yet another a mistake, didn't we? Tsk, tsk... ,,"

Turn abruptly and walk away with a snide laugh she can hear.
Reply
Reply
post #12 of 44
11/20/09 at 11:14pm
Write to the store manager and rant. The rude sa needs to be retrained. or in other words given a good bitch slap by her boss.
Reply
Reply
post #13 of 44
11/20/09 at 11:51pm
I think that something's gone wrong with Nordstrom's, especially women's fragrance.

I consider Neiman Marcus and Barney's to be at least a step up from Nordstrom's in Fancy Storeness. But I've found that the salesfolks at those stores have always been really nice - less attentive if I'm dressed down, more so if I'm dressed up, but never ever less than nice and never ever dismissive if I have a question.

The women at Nordstrom's fragrance counter, on the other hand, never really seem interested except when I make a point of "dressing for perfume shopping", and even then they're not very knowledgeable or genuinely helpful, they just hover, rather like cats hoping that you'll open a can of something.

I know that this isn't everyone's experience with Neiman Marcus (not sure about Barney's?), and it may be partly be because I'm in a pretty casual area. But Nordstrom's is in that same casual area, so they don't seem to be able to learn the same lesson.

So I think that it's worth complaining to Nordstrom's.
Reply
Reply
post #14 of 44
11/21/09 at 5:26am
I have had 4 visits to the Nordstrom perfume counter in the last 6 months, and they went like this:

1) My SA was very helpful, showing me lots of frags, decanting a couple samples, and recommending some that I hadn't tried. The other SAs were all standing around and gabbing, when she went to ask one to decant an Estee Lauder scent for me, she had to practically snap in front of the girl's face to tear her away from whatever nonsense they were gabbing about.

2) On the next visit, I got the same SA. This time, she was the ONLY person staffing the entire fragrance section, for both men and women. She was harried and busy and confessed that they were no longer given vials to decant samples.

3) This time, 2 women were working. When I asked questions, the younger one stared at me like a deer in the headlights. The older one swooped in, all important-feeling and asked me what fragrance family I prefer. "Classic Chypres" I said. Ah, now there is that deer-in-headlights look from this one, too. "Um....they....don't....make those anymore. Have you tried Angel?"

4) Only one SA for the whole floor again, and Lord, I wish I had her name. She was great. I explained what I DON'T like and she dragged me around and introduced me to a ton of stuff at the back of the tester trays. She confessed that she personally can't find anything she likes more than "Kiss of the Dragon" (thus avoiding tackling French, I guess!) and REALLY impressed me by taking me over to the men's counter to try a few scents that work for either sex. (SAs are usually not on the ball about unisex fragrance use, so I was very impressed by this) I went in to try Bulgari Black, but left with manufacturers samples of a few things and with a new love of Tom Ford Extreme, Tom Ford Grey Vetiver, Hermes Caleche, and other marvelous items.

My theory? Nordstrom has cut staffing WAY back, so now they are not only understaffed, but often staff the fragrance counters with random SAs who are probably better trained in accessories or shoes.
Reply
Reply
post #15 of 44
11/21/09 at 6:15am
Quote:
Originally Posted by Divatologist View Post

LLS we have all been through this. That's why it's so important to have a "perfume buddy" where you like to buy perfume. Most of the time I'm completely ignored, which doesn't bother me because I usually don't want to be bothered. Whew! I wish Diva could have been there shopping with you. Honey, she would have been in a corner in the backroom looking crazy when I got through with her. It's funny because when I go into neimans now, they all speak to me because they know that I buy alot of perfume. I'll have them in that backroom looking for stuff or have them pull things out of that case left and right lol. The more of an attitude they display, the harder I make them work. Once I finish running them to death I tell them thank you and that I'll come back and buy those things when my "perfume buddy" is working. It's even sweeter when you come back and get a those perfumes from your "perfume buddy" when "ms/mr snooty" is working lol. I have a buddy in each of my nordstroms. I get most of my perfume from nordstrom. They can be a tad on the snooty side.

You're a BNer now! Show no fear! Next time make that snooty acting SA work.

YES!!! This is the best. These types of SAs have some serious issues and the way Diva deals with them is the best way.

I would also recommend speaking to their manager. Actually I would do it right then. Ask her to get her counter or department manager to come over and help you since she won't. And if she won't do that, then walk around and ask for the manager of the cosmetic department. They want and need to know about these kind of SAs. No one wants to have horrible customer service dished out at their store. They live for their sales numbers and will take care of shoddy service STAT.

Sorry for your bad experience LLS. I would have made mincemeat of that cow. *puts ups dukes*
Reply
Reply
post #16 of 44
11/21/09 at 6:48am
I suspect as others such as YCCMM have said, the SA is new or poorly trained for the job. There seems to be so little customer service training these days. Soapbox: this is why the internet is taking over. Not because it is cheaper and impersonal, but because is cheaper and the customer service often seems friendlier and more personal on the net. Climbing off the soapbox now.

I agree with those who have suggested speaking calmly and kindly to the manager. Vent here, then be a model of grace when you file your complaint. A model that SA can follow!

I also think that some new SAs channel their lack of knowledge , experience, and confidence into rudeness. .[This sort of thing happens in other professions as well, of course..] In any case, a gentle word from the boss might help this SA, and her customers.
Reply
Reply
post #17 of 44
11/21/09 at 6:57am
latelittlesleeper; Your experiences at Nordstrom indicate that management is not observing these SA's properly. Nordstrom has defined itself as striving for the very best service and if your feeling the way you do as a result of the service (or lack thereof) these SA's are not doing their jobs. I would suggest the next time you go to ask, first thing to talk to management, and then explain your situation. Unless things have drastically changed with Nordstrom policy things should be different next time you shop there. Sounds like these SA's have been getting away with this because no has complained. It's your money so don't feel bad about complaining. Your doing Nordstrom a favor by doing so. Some people have not learned that income level is not a basis for thinking they are better than anyone. This kind of bigotry should not be allowed to continue. If you don't want to do a face to face with management, at least write a letter.



Quote:
Originally Posted by latelittlesleeper View Post

I'm so sorry to post AGAIN today. I just had to get this off my chest because it was so very frustrating!

I spend a decent amount of money on a regular basis at the local Nordstrom's. Luckily, I have a regular SA I work with who knows what I like and who makes my shopping experiences much more bearable.

I am not a Nordstrom's kind of woman, honestly. I live with a moderate income and though I am put-together, I don't spend a lot of money on clothes or shoes. I save my extra income for perfume, which I think of as another art, but one that is much more affordable than other art mediums. Someday I'll hopefully be able to set aside a little for like, a Jeff Koons or something. But now I stick with perfume!

Anyway, when my SA isn't around, I have such a hard time with the other women at the fragrance counter! They take one look at me and give me the lip-curl. I've gotten it so many times, I'm almost accustomed to it. And then I seldom get any proper attention when I'm looking to purchase something. They give me short, impatient answers to questions or chuckle at my questions like they're inane.

Today I stopped in and my SA wasn't there. So I was puttering around and resniffed the L'Eau Ambree, which I find lovely, though too soft for me. A SA was right there, so I thought I'd ask her something I'd been wondering for a long time. I asked her if they carried the new Prada in a body powder, since it was so lovely and would be a gorgeous scent for a powder.

!! Her reaction mortified me! She rolled her eyes pretty openly and took the bottle off the counter and away from me like I was going to STEAL it. And then she said "UM, NO," with a little scoff at the end.

There were other shoppers around me who could hear the whole exchange, so I felt completely awkward and just laughed a little, confused, and said "Oh, well. I thought I'd ask-" And she WALKED AWAY from me, halfway through my sentence. It was so appalling. I blushed and left quickly after.

When I got home, I was looking at their website to read a description on the Dior Pondicherry I saw (but didn't test) and what was there? On their own website?? L'Eau Ambree in a body talc!

So absurd! I am so tired of obnoxiously snobby, ignorant SAs!

Anyone else have SA horror stories to get off their chests so I'm not the only one ranting?
Reply
Reply
post #18 of 44
11/21/09 at 8:42am
Sorry to hear about your SA troubles...what she did was appalling. These snooty SAs can certainly ruin your day, can't they?

Next time I come across these ignorant sort, I think I'll try to get them to join Basenotes...and let the BN'ers show them the ropes. If their employers won't train them, maybe BN could..
Reply
Reply
post #19 of 44
11/21/09 at 9:02am
Don't condescending people just suck? Yet....these same jokers wake up every morning with ass breath, stinky pits and probably feet as well...and let's not even get into other body parts.

They act like their shit doesn't stink.....but their farts give them away.

Can you tell I have no time or patience for people such as this?
Reply
Reply
post #20 of 44
11/21/09 at 9:47am
When I Go To Buy New Fragrances I Only Deal With 3 People At The Max And They Are Always The Same Ladies I Love Them. The Best Way To Get At Them Is To Not Buy Anything From Them So They Can't Get Their Commission Or Be "Nice Nasty" With Them Meaning Tell Them Off In A Professional Way.
Reply
Reply
post #21 of 44
11/21/09 at 10:14am
So sorry to hear that latelittlesleeper ! I concur with letting her managers know about this, however Diva's method of dealing with such behaviour is just pure awesome *lol*. I never understood that attitude of discriminating against people based on appearance, especially from SAs who work at higher-end stores and boutiques. They're supposed to be there working to serve you while you shop, end of story.
Reply
Reply
post #22 of 44
11/21/09 at 10:55am
I would also love to see Diva in action. Serves those foolish SAs right for being so obnoxious.

LLS - I am also sorry that you had such a nasty experience and a complaint is in order, I agree. I also know, though, that sometimes when you are there, that kind of rudeness really just takes you by surprise and you/I really just want to get the h*ll outta there when it happens.

My SA experiences with Nordstrom fragrance are limited to just the ones not knowing too much about fragrance, but generally, all the SAs at Honolulu's Nordies frag section are pleasant and helpful. (Maybe b/c I spend a little too much in other sections? ha ha)

But my SA experiences in Neiman's run the gamut - from uninterested & apathetic (you'd think they don't care about earning $) to clueless (pronouncing the last word of "eau de toilette" like "toilet" .... or not knowing any of the notes in the newest Gucci or Prada or whatever they're pushing that day) to just plain obnoxious.

The worst was this one woman (I'm talking about YOU, CHRISTINE) who worked the Sisley counter at NM a few years ago. I was interested in purchasing their sunscreen (which, btw, is insanely expensive for s/s, but supposedly really good) but wanted a sample to try it first. I used to see a wonderful SA who would give me tons of sample & I'd always buy from her --- but she left. Anyway, so I KNOW that Sisley has little packets of their overpriced products so you can try before you buy. That cow Christine looked down her nose at me and said "we don't HAVE any samples for you" & then muttered something about giving away things to people who have no intention of buying and then went back to gossiping with the other SAs...one of whom looked mortified that I'd been treated like that and promptly went to make me a sample (which was nice of her).

But I never forgot that...so if Christine (tall brunette usually with dark-rimmed glasses and distinctive ponytail) is working a counter, I skip it or ask another SA for assistance. Yes, I know that it would have been more effective to speak to a manager...but in this case, I think Christine IS one of the managers.

And yes...it put me off shopping at Neiman's in Honolulu. Maybe I go there every so often, but whenever I can... I shop elsewhere. I don't like being treated like that, either....
Reply
Reply
post #23 of 44
11/22/09 at 12:31am
Go in, print out of the body talc in hand. Ask for the fragrance department manager. Tell her (I'm making an assumption on the gender) that her staff doesn't know the product line. Then go into a description of how you were treated....

...then show her a receipt from the non-Nordstrom store where you have purchased the talc.
Reply
Reply
post #24 of 44
11/22/09 at 1:13am
ahh poor customer service is so frustrating enough, but rudeness like that is totally unacceptable!

I worked for several years in the cosmetics department of a large Dept. store in Australia and I would see the same thing happen over and over. Customers getting ignored, being dismissed, sales associates who clearly should not be working in a public forum.

One could forgive the SA for making a mistake about the product had she been polite or in the least bit helpful, but walking off and speaking to you poorly is just plain awful.

Personally, I would ask to speak to a manager about it the next time I was in and express my disappointment. I've done it on more than one occasion and often to a positive result.

Hopefully your experience is better next time
Reply
Reply
post #25 of 44
11/22/09 at 6:50am
Littlelatesleeper, yours is not a ridiculous rant! Rudeness and terrible customer service should not be tolerated. I cannot add anything to the already great advice already given (I like the "calm and dignified chat with the manager" approach, fwiw). Here is a hug for you: {@}.

I am not a person who could look fashionable if I spent an entire day trying, and I don't shop regularly at the upscale department stores. So I'm a little intimidated, particularly by cosmetic and fragrance counter SAs, when I do venture in.

Here's my dilemma: My ethics tell me that rudeness and bad service should be reported so that the store can make a correction, and so that other customers won't have to suffer. But I don't think I have the energy to deal with the issue time after time, and in almost every venue of public life.

What to do? It helps, of course, to vent. Thank goodness for the BN forums and the good people on it!!!

I now retreat into my cave, with increased reverence and affection for my computer and my vintage fragrances...Have a great day, everyone! And remember to practice random acts of kindness and senseless beauty.
Reply
Reply
post #26 of 44
11/22/09 at 10:54am
Quote:
Originally Posted by queen cupcake View Post


Here's my dilemma: My ethics tell me that rudeness and bad service should be reported so that the store can make a correction, and so that other customers won't have to suffer. But I don't think I have the energy to deal with the issue time after time, and in almost every venue of public life.

I agree with queen cupcake (cute name, btw). That is, the problem has become pervasive, & we really do have to pick our battles.

If it helps the OP any, I should also note that, for certain stores and products, I call ahead to work with my favorite SA (make sure she's going to be there when I want to shop or if there's an "event" - to ask her to hold things for me). Good SAs appreciate your/our loyalty, that's for sure. It's a little extra bother, but then I don't have to deal with a wild card. I don't shop at B&M stores as much as I'd like, so if I make the trip, it's nice to have the right people there to help me make the most of my time.

BTW, I think reporting to the manager is generally a good idea, but sometimes the manager IS the problem...and then QC's point about the extra bother hits home.
Reply
Reply
post #27 of 44
11/22/09 at 11:01am
I also think that some new SAs channel their lack of knowledge , experience, and confidence into rudeness. .[This sort of thing happens in other professions as well, of course..

Your observation is spot on....
Reply
Reply
post #28 of 44
11/22/09 at 11:16am
Quote:
Originally Posted by kumquat View Post

Go ahead, rant!

Well said and giftedly illustrated smiley-wise!
Its just so awful to be made to feel badly unjustifiably.
Lack of help plus a sense of injustice!?
Indulge in some scream therapy.
Reply
Reply
post #29 of 44
11/22/09 at 1:01pm
What is it with these stuck up cows??
I've come across so many bitchy eejits on fragrance & cosmetics counters. AAAAARRRGGGHHH
Life is better all round if you are nice to people & understand that no one is better than anyone else. Hey ho.

A written complaint to the manager is the best way.

Your comments get to the person in charge, are on record, & require a response.

People don't like to complain, but doing so firmly & politely can be productive.
Reply
Reply
post #30 of 44
11/22/09 at 2:16pm
Oh & if you did write you could include some praise for your fave SA
Reply
Reply
post #31 of 44
11/22/09 at 2:27pm
Which Nordies and what does the sow look like?
Reply
Reply
post #32 of 44
11/23/09 at 4:06am
This sort of thing seems to happen with some regularity, unfortunately, to many people. I had a similar thing happen to me a little while ago while car shopping (described here). The first thing to remember is that you cannot take it personally. I know that sounds a little crazy, since it seems like a direct assault on your dignity at the time. But keep in mind that most of the time these SAs do not know you at all. You're just someone who walked into the store. And lots of people (including people who are paid to know better) make incorrect judgments about people for the flimsiest of reasons. You might remind her of someone who stole a boyfriend from her in high school. It could really be as simple and as stupid as that.

Of course, that doesn't excuse her behavior, especially from a purely professional point of view. It's a tough economy, and people are cutting back on discretionary purchases. Stores like Nordstrom cannot afford to have SAs scuttling the sales ship before it even leaves the dock. Find out when the bitchy SA works. Have two friends enter the store separately and approach the counter to browse. Then you enter about ten minutes later and, without acknowledging that you know the two people already at the counter, move periodically between the two of them and appear to be looking at items in the same vicinity. Don't talk to either of your two friends, or even look at them. Eventually another incident will occur with the SA because her "patience" will wear thin, and you will have a witness who will appear to management to be impartial (even on security cameras). Talk to management immediately and ask your new "friend" to bear witness for you. Maybe six months of eating Top Ramen while drawing unemployment checks will sweeten the SA's disposition a little.
Reply
Reply
post #33 of 44
11/23/09 at 4:17pm
Wanna hear about "the" incident that put me off even stepping into the Nord perfume department for two years or so?

Remember when the Givenchy Mythiques came out, about 2006 or thereabouts? Well, I just couldn't wait - I was very enthused (this was before I found out how wan and tepid they were post-reformulation). I called my local Nordstrom, talked to an S/A in the perfume department who confirmed that all the Mythiques had arrived and were being featured at that store. So down I trucked myself after work and entered the parfumerie. A very aggressive S/A (not the one I talked to on the phone - she, apparently, had left for the day) pulled alongside me and tried to spray me with whatever she was pushing. I refused her offer and announced that I was there to try on the Givenchys, and three specific ones. She said, and I quote, "Oh, we're not going to get those in for another month". As she said that, my eyes focused on the shelves directly behind her - directly meaning about 4 feet behind her. Those shelves were stocked from top to bottom with the Givenchys - all of them - and there was a sign proclaiming their exclusivity to Nordstrom. I said politely, "You're standing right in front of them". She whirled around and said "Oh - I didn't notice". No apology, no offer to help, nothing. I asked if I could sample several, and she grabbed a bottle without looking at the label and squirted a tiny bit in a vial, then shoved said vial at me with the word "Here", as in "Here, now leave". I repeated that there were three particular ones that I wanted to try on. And then....she said...."Why? They all smell the same", with a shooing gesture at me.

I went to customer service and I busted. her. ass. Before I left the store, I had the satisfaction of seeing the customer service manager storm down to the perfume department and grimly cull her out of the herd. If he had been allowed to pull her along by the ear I believe he would have. I didn't stick around to see more, but assume she was being taken away for a little talk.

I never set foot in that Nordstrom's perfume department again for almost two years. Me, who had been a frequent visitor and frequent buyer. That's when I really got into online ordering - and not from Nordstrom most of the time.

And the "exclusive to Nordstrom" thing? Ha ha ha. The online discounters had the entire Mythiques collection for sale not a week later. Ha ha ha.
Reply
Reply
post #34 of 44
11/23/09 at 4:49pm
  • kbe
  • offline
  • Gender:
I am a firm believer in talking with my wallet Jardanel. If more unhappy customers did so and actually complained to management about outrageous SAs rather than just eating the rudeness the problem would be nearly solved. I have just about quit buying from brick and mortar stores for most things. Too many haughty and ill informed SAs to put up with to pay full retail for items available online for discounts and no lip.
Reply
Reply
post #35 of 44
11/23/09 at 7:32pm
These stories are horrific yet I can't stop reading them!
Reply
Reply
post #36 of 44
11/24/09 at 11:07am
Latelittlesleeper in her original post makes a point that I believe cannot be overstated - where she says she saves her additional income for and spends her additional income on perfume. I think this is the boat we are all generally in. I know we all make comments such as not being able to live without this or that fragrance, but the reality is that perfume is luxury, albeit a necessary one for people like us BN'ers. So the message Nordstrom and other stores need to absorb is this: we're not in your fragrance department shopping for toilet paper, gasoline, socks, or food staples. No one would be beating down your door after a hurricane or earthquake or nuclear war to plead with you for what we couldn't survive another day without. We don't absolutely need what you're selling, and if we did, there's a galaxy of other purveyors to service us.

I should add that, after what I described above, my purchases at Nordstrom overall went way, way down. Even though I took the right steps and so did the manager who responded to the situation, my gorge rose whenever I contemplated a purchase there. 99% of the time, I expended the extra effort to find the item elsewhere. So, if you want an example of a ripple effect, there it is.

By the way, I was in the local Nordstrom a couple of days ago and there was not a soul in the fragrance department. Not a single browser, not a single s/a. I went in and strolled around looking at the holiday gift sets, and was alone for the entire 10 minutes or so. This was on a weekend, mid-afternoon, when the streets outside were bustling with shoppers. I think this Nordstrom may have laid off much of its fragrance department sales associates, and now staffs it on a "as-needed" basis with s/a's from other counters. Like I said - are you listening, Nordstrom? - it's a luxury - and most people know a lower price is just a mouse click away.
Reply
Reply
post #37 of 44
11/24/09 at 11:22am
Quote:
Originally Posted by knit_at_nite View Post

Hi latelittlesleeper,
I'm sorry that SA was so rude and poorly trained. Perhaps your superior knowledge of scents in front of other clients intimidated her and she had to run off in shame . I think many BNers can relate to how you feel,; it's certainly happened to me as well. I've developed some strategies to cope with the obnoxious SA behavior.
If had a SA done that to me, I would say to the other folks around- "did you SEE THAT, she just walked off on me and I'm seriously shopping- sheesh, guess there's no recession HERE".

I reccommend you remember your special SA's name and specifically ask for her when you arrive in the dept. if she's not, ask for a manager.Make sure you work into your banter that you want her because she is not only knowledgeable about their stock, she actually treats you with respect , and you look forward to shopping there for years to come- as long as they hire folks like her.

assertiveness while being nice is an art you have to practice!

I agree. Your being a mere *customer* and thereby beneath her, in her own estimation, and armed with more product knowedge, you pushed her insecurity buttons.

I'd just laugh it off. She just lost a sale and she thinks she is the winner in this.

I used to be angry, now I just ignore it for the pathetic behaviour that it is...

Quote:
Originally Posted by kbe View Post

Go to their website again. Find the L'Eau Ambree Body Talc page. Copy and print it. Circle the item boldly several times in red crayon. Take it unfolded in a plain manila holder to the store when you-know-who is behind the fragrance counter. Stand your ground and silently stare directly at her until she comes over to you. When she does (and she will) take the copy out and sloooowly put it on the counter face up so she can read it. When she looks down to view it, say quite loudly while looking around at anyone nearby :"Ummm..Oh my, seems we made yet another a mistake, didn't we? Tsk, tsk... ,,"

Turn abruptly and walk away with a snide laugh she can hear.

The best comeuppance I have seen so far!
Reply
Reply
post #38 of 44
11/24/09 at 11:23am
After reading the Ulta thread, I wonder if it would be worth emailing Nordstrom corporate with a pointer to this thread? I realize that it wouldn't let them know what store or SA, specifically, is the problem, but it sounds like Nordstrom's has an overall problem with the way that they handle fragrance.

If their corporate policy is, "Feh, don't train, don't staff, people will buy the perfume anyway" maybe this thread could clarify that, indeed they will, and they'll buy it _somewhere else_.
Reply
Reply
post #39 of 44
11/27/09 at 9:00am
Thread Starter 
Sorry for going awol, guys! I hosted Thanksgiving this year so I was pretty busy for a few days. I'm just getting back to this thread now.

Chickenfreak: I'm pretty sure that Nordstroms is more interested in hiring attractive young women than women who can competently sell fragrance. I hate to judge, but they're rather lovely-looking women, but never seem to have any idea what I'm talking about (or what they're talking about, for that matter!)

Jardanel: !! I can't believe how ridiculous that SA was to you! The thing about Nordstrom's SA rudeness that just GETS to me is, it's their JOB to make you HAPPY. And when you're a perfumista, it really doesn't take much for them to get it right! Just a little patience and help when it's wanted, and that SA might have been able to sell the whole line to you! The rudeness is just SO counterintuitive and absurd! I am so sorry that she was terrible to you, but very pleased that you handled it so well. I never have any idea who to talk to about my SA problems because the SA counter manager is ALSO ONE of the problems! Now I know I can talk to customer service and that is a great idea. The next time I have a problem, I'll do just that!

But also, I enjoy perusing the fragrance counter now, but I'm becoming less and less of a full-bottle person, as my collection grows. If I really love something (this month it's Hermes Ambre Narguile), I'll think about getting a bottle. But if I'm not 100% sold, I'd rather support a favorite online decanter and buy myself a deluxe sample or something. So the reality is, I'll probably be going to Nordstrom's a lot less often anyway.

Thank you for your comment! It was very helpful to me.

Astaroth, I've read some papers on discrimination at car dealerships! It's such a common happening/issue that people have published studies on it! I'm sorry that happened to you. You handled it gracefully.

I like your entrapment idea, ha! It's clever. My only problem is (which is probably why I come across such rudeness when I shop to begin with), I don't have any local perfumista types to go counter perusing with! I have a few, but they're never around during the times I have free to go shopping. I'll have to remedy that!

Socalwoman, it was the Nordstrom's in Brea! And she was...blonde. ahaha, uh? This is TERRIBLE, but all those OC blonde types look the same to me!

And thank you everyone for your support and for letting me rant. And for sharing your own stories and ideas with me. It helped.
Reply
Reply
post #40 of 44
11/27/09 at 9:14am
For what it's worth, I have found the SAs at Nordstrom at West Farms Mall, CT to be very helpful (without hovering.) They've never been anything but polite and welcoming. I'd buy from them again in a heartbeat-- if I found a fragrance I wanted there.
Reply
Reply
post #41 of 44
11/27/09 at 1:51pm
30Roses: Read my 4 accounts above...Westfarms is my local Nordies.

In other news, 30Roses and I apparently are neighbors and need to meet for lunch!
Reply
Reply
post #42 of 44
11/28/09 at 6:43pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by Jardanel View Post

By the way, I was in the local Nordstrom a couple of days ago and there was not a soul in the fragrance department. Not a single browser, not a single s/a. I went in and strolled around looking at the holiday gift sets, and was alone for the entire 10 minutes or so ... I think this Nordstrom may have laid off much of its fragrance department sales associates, and now staffs it on a "as-needed" basis with s/a's from other counters.

Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills have been doing the same thing during the last hour or so that they are open.

Quote:
Originally Posted by latelittlesleeper View Post

I enjoy perusing the fragrance counter now, but I'm becoming less and less of a full-bottle person, as my collection grows. If I really love something ... this month it's Hermes Ambre Narguile) ...

I want to see a list of people who haven't fallen for this juice yet. I first tried this down at the Hermès boutique in South Coast Plaza with some of the other BNers, and I think everyone liked it. I loved it. I'm struggling to not buy it yet.

Quote:
Originally Posted by latelittlesleeper View Post

Socalwoman, it was the Nordstrom's in Brea! And she was...blonde. ahaha, uh?

Oh wow, I didn't know this SA is a "local". PM me a more complete description of her and the next time I'm down in Orange County I might stop in and entertain myself. ... if she hasn't lost her job before then.
Reply
Reply
post #43 of 44
11/29/09 at 11:03am
Thread Starter 
Quote:
Originally Posted by Astaroth View Post

Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills have been doing the same thing during the last hour or so that they are open.


I want to see a list of people who haven't fallen for this juice yet. I first tried this down at the Hermès boutique in South Coast Plaza with some of the other BNers, and I think everyone liked it. I loved it. I'm struggling to not buy it yet.


Oh wow, I didn't know this SA is a "local". PM me a more complete description of her and the next time I'm down in Orange County I might stop in and entertain myself. ... if she hasn't lost her job before then.

While I appreciate Jean-Claude Ellena's work for Hermes, it wasn't until Ambre Narguile recently that I really FELT it. It's probably one of the most gorgeous things I've ever smelled. I enjoyed Terre d'Hermes and Un Jardin Sur Le Nil, but Ambre Narguile captured my heart pretty thoroughly.

Where are you from, can I ask? I'm in Whittier, CA! It's exciting to hear there are other perfumistas local! I have yet to make the trip to South Coast Plaza (or Scent Bar) because of my baby, but when she's older, I'm totally going! And the SA from the Nordstroms...hmm. She was so typically OC blond! Lots of makeup. Um, not BIG hair but BIGGER hair than I wear. Not the manager, who has glasses. Shoulder-length? It's hard to remember! I was so caught off-guard by her behavior, I went all inside myself and self-conscious. I wish I had a better description. I think she was there on a Monday afternoon?
Reply
Reply
post #44 of 44
12/2/09 at 7:43pm
Quote:
Originally Posted by latelittlesleeper View Post

Where are you from, can I ask? I'm in Whittier, CA!

I'm in Brentwood, and there are a whole bunch of us here in Los Angeles. We usually go out in crews of 4 or 5 at a time, usually centering on West L.A. or Beverly Hills, but sometimes going down to OC as well. You can see a list of a few of us in the Los Angeles Basenoters group and also in Tovah's group: Orange County, CA anyone?

Anyway, I'll bump this thread again if I end up hitting the Nordstrom in Brea. My curiosity is piqued now.
Reply
Reply
New Posts  All Forums:Forum Nav:
  Return Home
  Back to Forum: Female Fragrance Discussion

Features on Basenotes

Greatest Hits: Annick Menardo
Petals Falling From The Sky - A Report From The Cote d'Azur's Bataille De Fleurs
Basenotes Reader Awards 2013 - Finalists Announced.
Basenotes › Basenotes Forums › Fragrance Discussion › Female Fragrance Discussion › SA Rant- Because sometimes you have to!