A mission to fulfill a semester's worth of assignments, one of which being this blog.
Simple explanation:
- One class.
- Twelve hours of observation.
- One lengthy and detailed paper.
Hopefully, a better understanding of human behavior.
I work for a retail fragrance chain in South-Eastern Wisconsin, and like most retail employees, I have heard the phrase, "Just Looking," more times that I care to admit. So, through my experiences (sale-associate dodging, being ignored, and even out-right rudeness from customers), I've begun to ponder whether there is a common factor between these customers that seem so desperate to be left alone.
- Are they more commonly from an apparent social class?
- Do women tend to "associate-dodge" more than men?
- Do certain age groups tend to react with the "Just Looking" attitude over others?
- What other tactics do customers use to attempt to keep away from retail workers?
Also:
What happens if the employee is persistent?
- Do they leave?
- Do they give in?
- Or is this the point that rudeness begins to take hold?
I will be observing customers at my store, as one of their own. Another consumer, looking for good deals, and great fragrances. All names for this study will be falsified, and the name of the company will be confidential, however, I will be updating this blog with my findings.
Curious?
Stay tuned.
-AG
Your blog caught my attention because I am doing research on the retail side of things as well. The questions you presented were really interesting. I'm curious as to if you are required to ask people if they need any help-- Seems like that would be the time when they would respond with "just looking." My store we are to "smile and say hi" and I'm amazed at how many people ignore me. I think it's a great idea to conduct the research as though you are just another customer.
ReplyDelete-JMB
I really enjoy how you began your blog. You had a certain character that grabs people and gets them interested. Your research plan sounds very interesting and I must admit I am one of those customers who really likes to be left alone, unless I am buying something. I can't wait to see what you find!
ReplyDeleteYour blog caught my eye. It is a good idea that I have never considered. I think it would be interesting to see if the customers, who say, "just looking," say that because of different social classes or if it also had to do with those certain customers being penny pinchers. It will be interesting to see the results.
ReplyDeleteThank all of your for your responses.
ReplyDeleteI am definately intrested to see if age or social class plays a role in 'associate-dodging' or not, it will be especially intresting if I do find a common thread.