How To: Shop a Department Store

Recently I had a discussion with some friends that opened my eyes to something: a lot of people are overwhelmed by department stores. While this seems like a common sense statement, it really had never occurred to me.

I spent what feels like the majority of my childhood hanging out in Dillard's shopping with my mother (clearly molding me into what I am today). My mom was besties with someone with every department that she shopped in. There was Rocky in women's shoes that knew her size and taste by heart. Monique and Patty in sportswear called her every time they got something new they thought she would love. They also helped her find me when I was hiding in the clothes racks, that's dedication to your customer. Watching my mom all those years taught me how to shop in department stores. And I want to pass on what I learned to you.

1) Ask salespeople for help. Unlike a lot of sales clerks in brand stores, department store salespeople know their merchandise and know their store. They know when their next shipment is coming in. They can direct you to other options when something isn't quite right.

2) . . . then maintain contact with them. Build a relationship with the people that sell you things. If you work with the same person every time you shop, they will start to know your taste and will be able to help you more effectively. They will also let you know when your favorite brands come in or when they go on sale.

3) Have a game plan. Just blithely wandering a huge store isn't going to accomplish anything. You need to have an idea about you want. Don't just go in looking for black shoes. Go in looking for a black patent pump with a heel over 3 inches, a rounded toe and a platform that costs under $100. Really think about what you want and relate that information to the salespeople there. Giving them more information will enable them to help you.

4) Don't get distracted. Stick to your game plan. Don't let all the shiny things in the glass cases or the pretty shoes steer you away from getting what you need. Go directly to the department that has what you are looking for and get your business taken care of. Then, if you have extra time, go browse around.

5) Do your research. Do a bit of online shopping on the store's site before you head into the actual store. This will help you get an idea of what you are looking for. If you have an example of what you are looking for, salespeople will be able to direct you to the right merchandise. They also may have exactly what you found on the site in the store. And who doesn't love some instant gratification?

I hope these tips help you find your away around a department store a little better the next time you head out shopping. And if you feel like you need a field guide for the stores here in Charlotte send me an email.