Have you ever been shopping and wanted to ask the salesperson for their advice on a purchase?
Have you wanted to ask their opinion but felt unsure of the right thing to say in English?
Do you feel unsure of how this relationship and interaction should work?
We’re going to help you to be prepared for this situation and give you some helpful phrases to say.
Here’s a letter that asks about a similar interaction that you may have experienced.
Hi Lindsay, how are you?
My question is related to money, and has to do with buying and purchasing. When I went to the US two years ago I asked the clerk at the department store where I had bought a shirt–“Is it a good buy?”
As he didn’t seem to understand at first, I wanted to ask what you think about this. Do you feel comfortable asking people in a clothing store their opinion? Sometimes it’s hard because I never know if I should go along with them or with my gut!
Sergio
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Consider What You’re Trying To Find Out
There’s the idea of asking about price, and then there’s asking about the quality of an item.
We are going to talk about how to ask a salesperson about the quality of an item.
If you are in fact asking about the cost or price of something, you could use the phrase “is this a good deal?”
If however you are asking about the quality or opinion of an item so that’s a different conversation.
Asking An Opinion In This Specific Situation
You do want to keep in mind that asking for an opinion can be a very subjective thing.
In this situation, you are trying to find out a little more about the item and that’s what you want to focus on.
If you want to ask for an opinion from a salesperson, here are a few ways to do so.
- What kinds of things have you heard about this product? (this can work quite well for a tech item)
- Which of these do you think IS the best (quality)? Has the best memory/features/benefits? (works well when comparing between 2 or more items)
- In your opinion, what is the best bang for my buck?
- If you were buying __________, would you choose this? Which one would you choose if you were buying this item? (good to put them in your shoes)
- Is this good quality, do you think it’s durable/sturdy/will last for a long time?
This Is A Great Way To Have The Right Conversation
It’s good to connect with the salesperson at the store–they want to help you as the buyer.
Just be sure they don’t always recommend the most expensive thing and that they have your best intentions in mind!
You can also look up a lot of reviews online before going into the store-that’s helpful and can get you ready for the interaction.
You can do your research, ask salespeople, and all of this can guide you in the right direction for a good purchase.
Takeaway
These phrases help you connect with the salesperson.
You should also ask for customer reviews and do your homework going into the transaction.
This is very important–always know that you can and should ask for the salesperson’s opinion.
This is good for you to be informed, but also a great interaction to be a part of.
If you have any questions, please leave them below in the comments section.
We’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
