Asking for Beauty Samples | Building rapport

So, there you are, cruising your whichever makeup/beauty department store and you want to ask for a product-sample before splashing out on the real deal...but you're unsure on how to go about it. Well, let me share some of my tips!

Don't be intimidated
So you approach the counter, the counter is quiet and the staff are all huddled, chatting amongst themselves or engrossed in some other work. Don't be afraid to approach them and ask for help: be confident...after all that's where they work and they're usually more than happy to help.

Be polite
"Treat others as you would expect to be treated" - no-one likes a rude customer! Talk to the staff member and be friendly, as this is beneficial in building a rapport with your favorite beauty counter. They will be more likely to remember you and what you like, and give you samples.

Try to be loyal to your favourite staff member
Once you've started to build a rapport with that staff member, don't lose it by going back and speaking to someone different. If they're good at their job they will usually tell you what times they are working (normally because they want the sale). Nevertheless, play on this and always go back to them. As an example; I always buy my Chanel products at a counter 10 miles from my house, even
though there is a perfectly good concession three miles away. Why do I do this? Easy; because I've built a fantastic relationship with the lovely lady that works there. She knows what I love, what I don't, and what my foundation shade is without asking me.

Try to avoid counters at peak times
If you're new to all this, you certainly don't want to go when they are at their busiest. This will vary depending on where the store is located - although use your common sense. If it's in a city centre, peak times will normally be at lunchtime throughout the working week. Saturdays and Sundays are also generally busy. Take into consideration 'payday' people: those who will usually be buying more
around the last week of the month. At these times the staff are often rushing around from one customer to another and you absolutely will not get their full attention.

Don't let one bad experience ruin it for you
Unfortunately, there will always be that one member of staff that is just plain rude or indifferent, which often puts people off asking for samples or approaching other beauty counters for help. Some people really aren't cut out for a job in customer service and this isn't your fault: they may just be having a bad day so just walk away and try again another day.

Don't be a sample hog
Ok, so although you're well within your rights to ask for samples, don't ask for them if you have no intention in purchasing the product, even if you do like it.

Do you ever ask for samples?

L x