Escaping Manipulation by Sales People makes readers aware of the manipulate salesperson by exposing just how they are able to shuffle their products to consumers hands with different schemes and tactics. The text specifically talks about how these people use “flattery and other likable tricks” to get what they want. In one of the first Sales in the Startup discussions, the class listed off many characteristics of the typical saleswoman and salesman.  One of the last ones listed just happened to be the word “manipulative.” Although not all salespeople are like this, it is important to recognize the manipulative salesperson to avoid getting wrapped up in a deal that the consumer did not want or was not ready to buy.

This article provided a few key example of how to get by the manipulate salesperson. In the third paragraph down the title “Returning the Favor” offers a perfect illustration of how to get around these people. “To not accept a gift being handed to you, it helps to put your hands in your pockets”, is a great way to not feel compelled to return the favor of purchasing a product from the sales associate. Although it may take practice, this a sure way to avoid any tricks.

To not come off as manipulative, salespeople try extremely hard to come across as trustworthy, nonthreatening, and friendly. Due to the fact the first impression stays with people, saleswoman and men tend to over exert themselves during the first encounter. This is a recognizable sign and should send off alarms to get away fast.

Overall, escaping the manipulative sales person is possible if one follows the steps and instructions written in this article.

4 thoughts on “Escaping Manipulation”
  1. Although the manipulative salesperson does not bring physical harm to the customer, financial and emotional damage may take place. This damage, although not apparent, can have the largest lasting impacts on the customers. Manipulative salespeople may have the mentality “sticks and stones my break my bones, but words will never hurt” as an overall means to selling their product.

  2. This is true. And I think this manipulation could be deemed most important of the key characteristics when acknowledging if or when a seller has ulterior motives. Something helpful to consider is the kind of pay the seller receives like if it’s a commission based sale.

  3. I like the point of not accepting a gift. I can see that in informal sales among friends where the one is trying to get the other to do something, and one of the tactics is to say “well I did this for you last week or I got that for you months ago.” I like the tip of keeping your hands in you pockets.

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