How hard is it to say 'Hello' ?

[wysper]

I am sure this has been mentioned before.
But, really, how hard is it to say hello to someone browsing bikes in a bike shop?

I was doing the rounds of the bike shops in Hamilton. I want to buy in the next two months or so.

Bike shop one, I was wondering around for 5 minutes. One of the guys was busy so I didnt expect anything from him. Another guy just sat behind the counter. There was a sales guy at his desk.. after a couple of minutes, he wondered out, looked around and walked out the back... I walked out of the shop

Bike shop two. After a couple of minutes of looking at the bikes at the front I wondered inside. One sales man was busy, another was sitting on a bike talking to another staff member... after a couple of minutes I got a grudging smile and a hello. After talking for a little while he showed me a bike but didnt show me the one I mentioned that was out front twice. He didnt seem to want to go outside (might have got slightly damp)

Bike shop three. Again looked at the bikes outside and then wandered inside.
The sales guy looked up and said 'hello, need any help today?' I said yes (happy to be acknowledged) and off we went to look at bikes. He asked good questions. Found out what I was after, roughly what I wanted to spend and we narrowed it down to a couple of options.

Now if I can find the dosh I will be off to shop 3 to buy a new bike other wise I will go back to see what can meet my budget.

For a simple hello and the willingness to talk, he practically guaranteed himself the sale over the other shops.

Crazy!

I was in my bike jacket and bike boots, ready to test ride but the first two shops didnt even get near an offer. Shop three was keen to get a bike out for me to test ride.

So at first point of call, bikes didnt even come into it.. but people did. Pretty shabby treatment from the first two is going to prove costly.

[Maha]

Acknowledgment is all I require (at first) I dont need to have salesperson hanging around while I look. When I am ready, I will ask, no shame in that. But yeah, the very least they can do is acknowledge that you are in thier poxy shop. I took a bike out once, when I got back, the salesman asked ''how was that''? then walked of....I did the same soon after.

[Papa Bear]

Good call.. I hear what you are saying.. there are a couple of bike shops in Christchurch I will never buy from for the same reason.. I work hard for my money and I want someone to work just as hard to get it off me. :clap:

[kneescraper]

I hear ya!

I found one shop in Gisborne shocking. If you walked in, in normal clothing the sales man would wonder around....not even looking your way. Walk in at a different time however with your riding gear on (off your bike) he would rush straight up to you....not that hes any help at all though.

I got the idea that unless you show you ride a bike hes not interested in you? Strange I know....the experement proved this to be right on more than a couple times.

[FROSTY]

Its a catch 22 innit.?
Knowing just what exactly a person is going to want in the way of service.
In my business I get 3 types of customer.
1) leave me alone -when I wanna talk I'll come to you (you've already pisssed me off for daring to say hello)
2) I want you to fawn all over me
3) I want you to say gidday cos I'm shy but once the ice is broken refer to 1

And I tell ya what I'd be a friggin millionare if I could work out who is which type

[Number One]

TO OP: Try being a chick and then getting acknolwedged in a bike shop...and if you are acknowledged see if you aren't patronized OR worse flirted with (spotty youths who wouldn't know the front fork from the rear shock don't turn me on!)


Acknowledgment is all I require (at first) I dont need to have salesperson hanging around while I look. When I am ready, I will ask, no shame in that. But yeah, the very least they can do is acknowledge that you are in thier poxy shop. I took a bike out once, when I got back, the salesman asked ''how was that''? then walked of....I did the same soon after.

+1 I don't want them fawning all over me but don't appreciate being flat out ignored!

[LittleAngel]

I would have to agree. I feel its just plain good ole manners to at least acknowledge someone when they enter the shop.

I'm happy if they don't hang around while I'm looking but if they are any kind of good salesperson they would be able to read when I'd want/need some more assistance. :wait:

There is one shop in particular in Christchurch I'm always impressed with :yeah: and they will always get my business (even if its just for small things like gloves, servicing etc).

:2thumbsup for Just Motorcycles in New Brighton!!

[Coyote]

... OR worse flirted with (spotty youths who wouldn't know the front fork from the rear shock don't turn me on!)

Gosh darn :rolleyes: (j/k)


I'm not usually fussed. The salesmen are beginning to recognise me and know I can't really afford anything so don't normally have a word with me. Especially the salesman at Wellington Motorcycles who knows me off KB :laugh:

Think I'll make the trip to Palmerston North or Masterton and wrangle some test rides off them instead :p

[rachprice]

I personally hate people who follow you around, but acknowledgement is nice, a smile/hey ya is sufficient...after that I like to be left to my own devices...if I go into a store knowing what I want I will go straight up them and ask though.

[1 Free Man]

.. I work hard for my money and I want someone to work just as hard to get it off me. :clap:
:laugh:Way to go Papa Bear. A man after my own heart:2thumbsup

[Pussy]

Try being a chick and then getting acknolwedged in a bike shop...and if you are acknowledged see if you aren't patronized OR worse flirted with

I reckon ANY bike shop that doesn't take girlie riders VERY seriously does so at their own peril. So far Gassit Girl has bought new bikes from: WMCC, treated her well and even delivered the bike for her(Wellington to New Plymouth!); Hawera M/C (now NorthWest), also great service; NPMC, good service; and her last bike from Road and Sport, VERY good service.
The percentage of female motorcyclists is ever increasing.... go girlies! :D

[tri boy]

Staff need to take the following approach:
"Goodmorning/afternoon/hello"
"Is there anything I can help you with?"
If customer is browsing:
"OK. Please ask if I can be of any assistance"

Not hard really. So many get it wrong.
Customers MUST be recognised/or approached depending on the situation.
Ignore the customer, lose the sale.

[wysper]

Its a catch 22 innit.?
Knowing just what exactly a person is going to want in the way of service.
In my business I get 3 types of customer.
1) leave me alone -when I wanna talk I'll come to you (you've already pisssed me off for daring to say hello)
2) I want you to fawn all over me
3) I want you to say gidday cos I'm shy but once the ice is broken refer to 1

And I tell ya what I'd be a friggin millionare if I could work out who is which type

Yep it is hard. But the first category are actually the minority. I have been in customer service and sales pretty much my whole life. And it is essential to greet someone. You dont have to stick to them like glue after that, but acknowledging them is pretty key.

@ Number One - I agree it must be much harder for the ladies to get serious help. Is it getting any better?

[Mom]

TO OP: Try being a chick and then getting acknolwedged in a bike shop...and if you are acknowledged see if you aren't patronized OR worse flirted with (spotty youths who wouldn't know the front fork from the rear shock don't turn me on!)


I had a really good laugh when I bought my little GN a few years ago. I wanted a red one being a girl and all that. I went to the local Suzuki shop and the guy there said something like how can I help? I replied I wanted to buy a bike. He then proceeded to say to me in a very amused tone, and what sort of bike do you want to buy? As he was being so cute, I replied ... A nice shiney red one please.

His wife looked up at me and then told him to cut it out! I used to own the shop once upon a time...LOL

I got my nice new shiney red one in a couple of days!

[dino3310]

who was shop number 3

[CB ARGH]

If you shop at closing time they'll be all over you. To get you out of the store. :lol:

[Number One]

@ Number One - I agree it must be much harder for the ladies to get serious help. Is it getting any better?
Getting better...to be honest I couldn't tell you.

I now approach or request certain people as they know what they are on about, have been around a while and are always approachable as they are good kind and they know me and hubby so actually I probably have it quite good! I wonder about the younger girls getting started...there is potential for them to be really fucked around!

Helps me that I am old, not cute and the spotty youths know I am not just a fresh green tyre kicker out to find a boy that rides bikes :rolleyes:

[Griffin]

Its a catch 22 innit.?
Knowing just what exactly a person is going to want in the way of service.
In my business I get 3 types of customer.
1) leave me alone -when I wanna talk I'll come to you (you've already pisssed me off for daring to say hello)
2) I want you to fawn all over me
3) I want you to say gidday cos I'm shy but once the ice is broken refer to 1

And I tell ya what I'd be a friggin millionare if I could work out who is which type


Well I dont think you need to work it out. If someone comes in to your shop and you acknowledge them with a friendly smile and greeting - they will let you know which type of customer they are in the way that they respond.

But if I walk into a shop where I expect service and Im ignored - I will walk right back out again and be buggered if I will ever go back. When I get good service - I let other people know and maybe even advertise it in my signature !!!

[Nordy]

There are 3 shops near me that sell the bike I want, only one got considered. I went shopping with my husband, I was asking the questions. He was getting the answers from two of them. The other treated me like a person and as such gets the sale.

I HATE being patronised and just because I am shopping with my husband doesnt mean he knows more than me about what I want!

I am getting my gear from a different shop (because its easier for both me and the store this way) and the reason I picked that shop isnt because of its location. But because the guy there has been uber helpful to me on KB, giving me advice and explaining why x works better than a and other things like that. I can see why they are advertised in the above signature :D

[wysper]

who was shop number 3

Boyd Motorcycles. Glen was helping me.
:niceone: Cheers Glen!

[Mom]

Well I dont think you need to work it out. If someone comes in to your shop and you acknowledge them with a friendly smile and greeting - they will let you know which type of customer they are in the way that they respond.

But if I walk into a shop where I expect service and Im ignored - I will walk right back out again and be buggered if I will ever go back. When I get good service - I let other people know and maybe even advertise it in my signature !!!

Sort of off topic but not. We bought an electric blanket last weekend, got it home, on the bed and turned it on for the 3 hours as recommended. It started heating both sides and then one side timed out and the safety cut in. OK it maybe got a bit too hot? Next night, it simply did not heat at all.

In the morning I rang the store to see how to go about getting a replacement/refund. No problem there I was assured, I wanted a replacement and asked the guy if he had one, if so I would get in the car and do the exchange. We live 45 mins away. He said no sorry we are all sold out. Found him actually not very helpful to be fair. Ok I say we will come back down on the weekend to get a refund.

Go there today, and this lovely girl said do you want a replacement? I said yes but you have none in stock, I rang and checked on Tuesday. She went for a walk and came back with a new one saying we have heaps here!

Your staff are your best investment, this guy fella I dealt with on Tuesday did his boss no favours, while the girl today was wonderful!

Maybe some shops employees are actually the issue not the shop itself?

[Griffin]

Maybe some shops employees are actually the issue not the shop itself?

That is definitely the case Mom but its the shop that employs and trains these employees - if the employee is causing problems the shop loses custom... Its for the shop to sort out. If the service is really shoddy and gets to me enough I will complain to the manager / owner so that they are aware of my grievance but generally I prefer to go where I am greeted and treated as a valued customer

[FROSTY]

Well I dont think you need to work it out. If someone comes in to your shop and you acknowledge them with a friendly smile and greeting - they will let you know which type of customer they are in the way that they respond.

But if I walk into a shop where I expect service and Im ignored - I will walk right back out again and be buggered if I will ever go back. When I get good service - I let other people know and maybe even advertise it in my signature !!!
sorry ol son--Ive been in sales for a bloody long time.
You are a catagory 2 customer -but most likely prefering no nudging just advice from the salesperson.
Some folk genuinely get annoyed if you aproach them

[Mom]

That is definitely the case Mom but its the shop that employs and trains these employees - if the employee is causing problems the shop loses custom... Its for the shop to sort out. If the service is really shoddy and gets to me enough I will complain to the manager / owner so that they are aware of my grievance but generally I prefer to go where I am greeted and treated as a valued customer

Really important to let them know, sometimes it is all it takes. Dont wait till you get pissed off, feed back from customers is so important, sometimes a telephone call, or a quiet word is far more effective. I used to ring anyone that chose not to buy from me/take the service I was offering or whatever and ask why? I learned some lessons and like to think gained some new custom as a result of negative feedback.

I am a big believer in complimenting people too! I once went to a seminar by a very sucessful man, he said saying thank you for good service or a job well done was the secret to sucess. He writes to anyone he receives good service from. I try to remember to do it and have done over the years. It costs a tiny bit of time and a stamp. I have had a couple of times in the past week or so I have been able to do so. Gives me a hell buzz!

[Griffin]

sorry ol son--Ive been in sales for a bloody long time.
You are a catagory 2 customer -but most likely prefering no nudging just advice from the salesperson.
Some folk genuinely get annoyed if you aproach them

Well I would hazard a guess that they are a vast minority - I can picture people getting annoyed if they're feeling harrassed but to get upset over being greeted when you walk into a shop? That is just uptight. Personally I would greet everyone the same way and if someone is offended by my saying hello... well they can use the same door they came in to bugger off back out :niceone:

[Pedrostt500]

H H H e e Hilo Nah cant get the hang of it.
If they dont want to talk to you well take your Business else where, some times I get this when Im in me work clothes, shop staff look down their nosses at me, even though I earn three or four times what they do, now I just work on the theory if they dont want my business I just take it else where, to some one who does want it.

[FROSTY]

Well I would hazard a guess that they are a vast minority - I can picture people getting annoyed if they're feeling harrassed but to get upset over being greeted when you walk into a shop? That is just uptight. Personally I would greet everyone the same way and if someone is offended by my saying hello... well they can use the same door they came in to bugger off back out :niceone:
Keep in mind im in CAR sales. People naturally think that if they say hello to us we will snatch away all their worldly posessions,

[Oakie]

There is one shop in particular in Christchurch I'm always impressed with :yeah: and they will always get my business (even if its just for small things like gloves, servicing etc). :2thumbsup for Just Motorcycles in New Brighton!!

I'll second that one. I was in there again today. It's great to walk into a shop, be greeted by name and have the owners pass the time of day with you even though they know I'm not there to buy anything (just yet).

[madandy]

In a bike shop where a customer may be after anything from an oil filter to a new bike and many parts & accessories may be stored out back or require assistance to view, acknowledging people must be the minimum requirement for sales staff.

I visited a local bike store today to enquire about a part and was basically laughed at when I told them what model I rode as my bike was too old and it was time to upgrade. I told the fella to hold up as I only needed bulbs and a cable - hardly casue to replace my Duc!
Then when I asked about some fancy mufflers and how they sounded I was told they were just for 'wank factor', and gave the same 'BOOM; for all Ducs, whether fitted to Super Sports right up to the mighty 1098!

So this genius managed to insult me and my bike and almost imply that every customer of theirs with Termignoni pipes were wankers...it was closing time so clearly genius man wished me to fuck off with my wallet quickly!

[DMNTD]

I'm the sort(of bike salesperson) that simply asks whether there are any question that I can answer whilst doing whatever I'm doing at the time as I've always got a squillion things to do anyway.
I'm also fortunate that I truly do enjoy talking bikes with people no matter what "level" they are at. Actually I prefer to talk to so-called n00bies as their passion is strong and there's also a lack of biker's arrogance which I have seen a fair bit from people that deem themselves more experienced with bikes than I.
Good for a laugh...if only they knew huh?


Keep in mind im in CAR sales. People naturally think that if they say hello to us we will snatch away all their worldly possessions,
Oh don't worry mate...some people think the same of bike salespersons too.




Maybe some shops employees are actually the issue not the shop itself?
100% agreed and it's also sad to see a good person in a "bad" shop.

[celticbhoy]

A year ago when shopping for my first bike had really mixed receptions here in Welly with starting in town being laughed at and actually turned away from when I asked for bikes at bottom end of budget. Made way out to hutt and 1 shop good and willing to help and other shop had a young guy come and try to help only to proceed to explain that the government are full of crap and I should just ignore the 250cc rule!!! Ater explaining for legal and insurance purposes prefer to be legal he continued to explain how he had been riding a thou for a couple of years on a learners! Dick...so had a trip to Auckland planned so checked the shops up there and 2 shops didn't want to acknowledge at all and one shop took no pride at all in presentation of bikes ie. covered in dust etc. Walked into 1 shop and immediately got a great vibe and service so went with them. Great attitude despite not a lot of money being spent!

[Mom]

some times I get this when Im in me work clothes, shop staff look down their nosses at me

First rule of sales, never judge a book by its cover. I once had an absolute HOBO looking bloke come in the shop. He seemed to be able to talk well, and asked good questions, then for a demo at his place. I got his name (did not mean a thing to me) and directions etc. My hubby went out and did the demo, sold a bike to the CEO of ASB Bank at the time... Never judge!!


So this genius managed to insult me and my bike and almost imply that every customer of theirs with Termignoni pipes were wankers...it was closing time so clearly genius man wished me to fuck off with my wallet quickly!

Call his boss mate, just a quiet heads up, not a complaint.


I'm the sort(of bike salesperson) that simply asks whether there are any question that I can answer whilst doing whatever I'm doing at the time as I've always got a squillion things to do anyway.
I'm also fortunate that I truly do enjoy talking bikes with people no matter what "level" they are at. Actually I prefer to talk to so-called n00bies as their passion is strong and there's also a lack of biker's arrogance which I have seen a fair bit from people the deem themselves more experienced with bikes than I.
Good for a laugh...if only they knew huh?


See talking is all that is required, hope your boss is pleased to have you on board.




100% agreed and it's also sad to see a good person in a "bad" shop.

Hope the good shops head hunt them away as soon as possible...LOL

[oldrider]

I reckon ANY bike shop that doesn't take girlie riders VERY seriously does so at their own peril. So far Gassit Girl has bought new bikes from: WMCC, treated her well and even delivered the bike for her(Wellington to New Plymouth!); Hawera M/C (now NorthWest), also great service; NPMC, good service; and her last bike from Road and Sport, VERY good service.
The percentage of female motorcyclists is ever increasing.... go girlies! :D

Hey, if they are still busy next time, tell her to ring me, I will pay her to let "me" deliver the bike! :ride: Any kind of bike! :yeah: Just love ridin them! :niceone: John.

[duckonin]

These two shops rate very highly for customer service, but more often than not they will leave you alone for a short while for a browse, then they ask if they can be of assistance..I can really recommend these two...Other shops around the country would be the same but these two are in my area....

MotoGB -Suzuki (Tauranga)

Bayride motocycles (Tauranga):

[DMNTD]

See talking is all that is required, hope your boss is pleased to have you on board.
Oh hell yes and he's showing it too. Off to Sydney for a Ducati course with a track day at Eastern Creek thrown in for a bit of fun :eek:

[ynot slow]

Numerous sales courses and each and everytime we are told NEVER ask can I help you?Is a negative question,answer you always get is no(90% of time).

I try to acknowledge each person,mind you am now in a different sales position,but still same idea though.Nothing worse than going into a shop and having the sales persons' tongue up your arse so to speak,especially the Michael Hill jewelery stores,had to spell it out to one lady last year what don't you understand I am not buying my wife a $1500 ring on hp,no way,and the lady kept saying go on she(wife)wants it,finance takes 15 mins,in the end I walked out rather than tell her to fuck off in front of a shop with 3 or so customers.

I want to be acknowledged upon entering but if I want help will ask,comes in handy with electrical shops.

[wysper]

Numerous sales courses and each and everytime we are told NEVER ask can I help you?Is a negative question,answer you always get is no(90% of time).



Yeah I know the theory, dont ask a question that can be easily answered with 'no'
It is usually suggested to try something like..

Are you having a good day?
Great weather we are having isnt it? (assuming it actually is)
I wasnt really commenting on the question or an approach or anything, more the complete lack of any indication I exsisted and was in their store.

@DMNTD - Bayride is a good shop, I was in there a few years ago and came with in a gnats whisker of buying a big 1500!

[Griffin]

I think even Car salesmen should acknowledge their customers - a simple hello, how are you as you walk past. The problem with many Carsales yards is that the customer is hounded... you can practiacally feel the circling of the salesman - conversation usually something like:
Salesman: How can I help you today
Customer: Oh Im fine thanks - just looking
S: Looking for anything in particular?
C: No, just looking...
S: What price range are you looking in?
C: Not sure - just being nosey - seeing whats around
S: Would that be for a family or something a little sporty just for yourself?
C: Not for anything... Im just having a look...
S: Well we have plenty in stock - how about this (whatever you just happen to be standing by) It low mileage, very reliable
C: No - not for me, thanks... Im just looki...
S: Well how about this, very sporty - could just picture you in it picking up the girls ay?
C: Um... no... (looking for easiest exit)
S: Oh come on - just sit in it and see what she feels like - I'll start her up
C: Look, no thanks - Ive gotta be somewhere
S: Are you sure - not even a drive? Just smell that leather
C: Bye... I'll come back tomorrow... pencil me in... seeya

Happens almost every time...

[young1]

Yes there is a bike shop in New Plymouth that I will only go if I really have to. The owner even once walked between me and the stand with the oils on it (I was trying to sort out what to get for my boys 2 stroke) and 1) didn't say hello 2) didn't say excuse me and 3) didn't ask if I wanted any help!!

I was very impressed though when I bought my KTM (I won't mention the Palmy dealers name). When I arrived the bike I was testing was outside fueled and ready to go. After I had a ride my (now ex) wife got on the back to see what it was like, before I rode off the dealer even went and got her a proper bike jacket to wear vs her Kathmandu jacket. Great service

Again the opposite to good service, when I was right into triathlons I really wanted a Cannondale racing bike. I went to a dealer with my wife and young son with me to buy some triathlon bars. When I pointed to a Cannondale bike and asked him how much they were he told me that I could not afford one!!! I bought one not that much later from another dealer.

[Griffin]

I was very impressed though when I bought my KTM (I won't mention the Palmy dealers name). When I arrived the bike I was testing was outside fueled and ready to go. After I had a ride my (now ex) wife got on the back to see what it was like, before I rode off the dealer even went and got her a proper bike jacket to wear vs her Kathmandu jacket. Great service

Why not mention their name... great service deserves wide recognition.

[young1]

Why not mention their name... great service deserves wide recognition.

AFC motorcyles - great service!

And why I am at it you can not go past Tony Jury motorcycles in Pahiatua either!!!!

[young1]

AFC motorcyles - great service!

And why I am at it you can not go past Tony Jury motorcycles in Pahiatua either!!!!

You know what was also good about both dealers? They even took time to talk to my (ex) wife. I have bought 6 bikes from Tony Jury all because of his service.

[Meekey_Mouse]

It's kind of funny... When I first started looking around in bike stores I did get quite a few shop salesmen who didn't take me seriously at all and would suggest the total opposite of what I explained I wanted/needed (be it gloves, boots what ever). Thank fully I generally had my brother with me who would point them in the right direction :laugh:. Don't get me wrong, there were lots who were very helpful!

Slowly by slowly as I've got more confidence I normally get two responses, either they'll try me out to see if I actually know what I'm talking about or they'll just be happy to help me :)

One thing I found rather interesting though is last time I went up north for a pair of gloves, I had the gixxer, which I parked up out front of each bike store, I was in my well used (read down the track but looked after) one piece and proper gear... I seemed to get taking a whole lot more seriously!!

I must say, I'm shocked that you found the help in the Kawasaki store in Hamilton not very good, I've always found them the best out of the 4 bike stores on Te Rapa Rd as far as people coming up and seeing if you need any assistance.

[mister.koz]

I quite like being left alone for a while when i am browsing, then i sneak over to the parts areas and find the person who isn't making huge commission and try and trick them to help me out :)

Works a treat cause they don't care if they sell or not they just want to share the obsession for a while.

[young1]

I quite like being left alone for a while when i am browsing, then i sneak over to the parts areas and find the person who isn't making huge commission and try and trick them to help me out :)

Works a treat cause they don't care if they sell or not they just want to share the obsession for a while.

Except as I found once the parts guy was more interested in chatting up the accounts girl than serving me!!

[mister.koz]

HA yeah that can happen, maybe try the parts girl :whistle:

[young1]

HA yeah that can happen, maybe try the parts girl :whistle:

What do you mean by "Try the parts girl" - I would have loved to "try" the Accounts girl!!!!!

[Griffin]

Whats worse is when the person you get to help you doesnt know anything and they have to keep ruuning back to the other sales people to get answers to your questions...

[mister.koz]

my suggestion was completely plain, no extra suggestions hehehe

[mister.koz]

Whats worse is when the person you get to help you doesnt know anything and they have to keep ruuning back to the other sales people to get answers to your questions...

yeah, this is a problem....

I guess i only browse when i don't have money, when i do have money and i am in a shop i am there to buy and i already know what i want.

Pisses sales people off somewhat but meh.

[young1]

my suggestion was completely plain, no extra suggestions hehehe

A test ride might have been fun!

[mister.koz]

I am so not getting into that :P

[young1]

I am so not getting into that :P

"Into that" you keep leaving yourself wide open!!

[wysper]

I must say, I'm shocked that you found the help in the Kawasaki store in Hamilton not very good, I've always found them the best out of the 4 bike stores on Te Rapa Rd as far as people coming up and seeing if you need any assistance.

I know, what is worse is I know the owner from when he was a mechanic in the store and I have bought at least two bikes from the store.
No more though.

[wysper]

Oh it's better now that I'm working there :shifty: :laugh:

I'll try and pop in next time I am over... will i recognise you by your flaming skull?:headbang:

[CookMySock]

I don't want them fawning all over me but don't appreciate being flat out ignored!Oh you're complex Number One, just sooo COMPLEX!! :crybaby:


DB

[Owl]

While on holiday in Oz, I thought I'd check out leather jackets in Nerang, as the street was loaded with bike shops. Triumph dealer was at the end, so seemed like the logical place to start.
After browsing jackets, I noticed the price of their Speed Triple and asked the salesman sitting at the desk if that was a run out special. As he was about to reply, a voice behind me said "No, that's the normal price" and then started a sales pitch on the Triple. When I was able to get a word in, I said "Yeah yeah, I'm quite familiar with them, I own one, but they're quite a bit cheaper here than at home in NZ". Realization that I had no intention of purchasing a bike must have set in and just as I started to say something else, he turned his back on me and started a conversation with a guy standing behind him. Of course I was :gob: and turned to the salesman sitting at the desk. He looked rather embarrassed, got up, walked away and disappeared out the back.
I left the shop shaking my head, laughing and wondering if I wanted to keep looking for a jacket. Well of course I did and my faith was soon restored down the road with a really helpful friendly parts guy. Turned out he was from New Plymouth!!!

[rottiguy]

Yep those Aussies, if ya not talking about sheep or velcro gloves they are just not interested :oi-grr:


While on holiday in Oz, I thought I'd check out leather jackets in Nerang, as the street was loaded with bike shops. Triumph dealer was at the end, so seemed like the logical place to start.
After browsing jackets, I noticed the price of their Speed Triple and asked the salesman sitting at the desk if that was a run out special. As he was about to reply, a voice behind me said "No, that's the normal price" and then started a sales pitch on the Triple. When I was able to get a word in, I said "Yeah yeah, I'm quite familiar with them, I own one, but they're quite a bit cheaper here than at home in NZ". Realization that I had no intention of purchasing a bike must have set in and just as I started to say something else, he turned his back on me and started a conversation with a guy standing behind him. Of course I was :gob: and turned to the salesman sitting at the desk. He looked rather embarrassed, got up, walked away and disappeared out the back.
I left the shop shaking my head, laughing and wondering if I wanted to keep looking for a jacket. Well of course I did and my faith was soon restored down the road with a really helpful friendly parts guy. Turned out he was from New Plymouth!!!

[Bikernereid]

it is the same over here. You usually find that the poncey shops ignore you as if that what is expected.

As much as I am not a fan of Honda I must admit the guts in the local Honda shop were great, no bloody fantastic about helping us with a topbox and intercom system. Although they didn't have the topbox that we wanted they spent ages doing a smart bodge-it job attaching a smaller topbox to our back plate. And to top it off they gave us it all for only $25 which saved us a fortune.

We got the intercom system cheap as chips too. I will admit that should we need anything else in future those guys will get our business for sure. I have working in customer service roles and appreciate when people go the extra mile. I do not believe they they do it because they have to, I think that some people are just good at thier job abd want to provide excellent service.

[wickle]

Having worked in the retail sector for a long time I generally have found service not to bad but what has really got me checkin prices and quite often now buying parts off the internet(overseas) is pricing , two examples exhaust rings locally $14-00 each , via net set of four landed $16-49, small rubber part quote resonable price but only have stock at other branch (I'll wait) parts arrive, thats $**** a 85% increase on quote !!!! I shop around on internet most of time now!

[Number One]

Whats worse is when the person you get to help you doesnt know anything and they have to keep ruuning back to the other sales people to get answers to your questions...

OR EVEN worse when you can tell they don't know what they are on about but they persist with keeping up an unconvincing bullshit fest despite being prompted to ask someone who does know...then they get it wrong and end up either totally overcharging you for something that isn't right or damaging your bike because of their pig headedness!

[rottiguy]

Absolutely, had that quite a few times, that's why it is best to do a bit of homework first so you can tell if they are bullshitting you. Most times it doesn't matter but if they say " na that is fine with your bike" and ya riding down the road and it craps it's self, it is little consolation for thinking they were talking shit


OR EVEN worse when you can tell they don't know what they are on about but they persist with keeping up an unconvincing bullshit fest despite being prompted to ask someone who does know...then they get it wrong and end up either totally overcharging you for something that isn't right or damaging your bike because of their pig headedness!

[rocketman1]

I do a hell of alot of looking before I buy a bike and may go back to shops several times just to browse, Hey I like looking at motorbikes most KBrs do, but eventually I end up buying.
What I do appreciate from salesmen is those that really know their bikes.
After I have studied up on a bike i know a fair bit about them and it is annoying to have a salesman not able to add information to your questions.
And to be honest I like having a chat about bikes, to a salesman who knows their stuff, and not feel pressured to buy.
Boyds in Hamilton are one of the best if you ask me.

[Littlewheels]

recently went to buy a new helmet, knew what I wanted, wanted to try on and get price. Took husband for company (non rider knows nothing about bikes, doesn't want to either) the sales guy spent most of the time talking to my husband as if a) I couldn't speak & b) I wasn't paying for it, I didn't buy the helmet there funnily enough.

[Little Miss Trouble]

recently went to buy a new helmet, knew what I wanted, wanted to try on and get price. Took husband for company (non rider knows nothing about bikes, doesn't want to either) the sales guy spent most of the time talking to my husband as if a) I couldn't speak & b) I wasn't paying for it, I didn't buy the helmet there funnily enough.

Ahh, I've had the same thing happen to me on more than one occasion, when I was looking for my bike one guy didn't even say HI before saying something like "the scooters are over there" :mad: (needless to say I didn't spend my money there!)
I've since realised though that you can work their attitude to your advantage, and now purposely take male company along to distract the sales guy, lets me check out what I want to look at in peace. I can then either a) laugh at the stunned look on their face when they realise I know what I'm talking about or b) pull out the girls 'get out of jail free' card "hmm, its ok I guess, but I don't like the colour" and walk out

[Katman]

Its a catch 22 innit.?


It's not a Catch 22 at all.

No-one would be offended or annoyed by a salesman saying "Hi there, give me a yell if there's anything I can help you with".

Ever since I got involved with motorcycles 25 years ago I've been disgusted by the number of people who work at bike shops who think their shit doesn't stink.

[oldrider]

Ever since I got involved with motorcycles 25 years ago I've been disgusted by the number of people who think their shit doesn't stink.

Katman posted that? :shifty: (lol) John.

[sidecar bob]

I had an expierence recently where i wanted to buy a pair of tyres for the RSV, The helpful & knowledgable salesman (a prominent KB'er) assisted me with the decision, when i dropped the bike off the service manager said "i suppose he talked you into XXX tyre" i said no, we agreed that would be the best tyre for the bike & my style (said kb'er having had an RSV in the family) The service manager then proceded to undermine the salesman & essentialy suggested he was an idiot , (something i would be nervous to do to said kb'er) for reccomending such a tyre choice.
The service manager had forgotten that at this point, His job was to S.T.F.U & fit some tyres, The hard work was already done.
The shop in question is without doubt the best shop by far in Tauranga, & is absolutely cranking with great staff & management & yet is being spoiled by one individual.
The tyres were a fantastic choice & the bike feels great, making even more of a fool of the service manager than he had already made of himself.

[Katman]

(lol) John.

You're clearly easily amused John.

[martybabe]

No-one would be offended or annoyed by a salesman saying "Hi there, give me a yell if there's anything I can help you with".

Bingo, that's exactly it for me, Acknowledge I'm alive, then keep one eye/ear open should I want assistance.

Easy as. :yes:

[scrivy]

Bike shops make me laugh actually.
I own 2 retail shops, and have approx. 60,000 buying customers a year.
I make it compulsory for my staff to acknowledge every single customer that walks in (and out of) the door. I do tests with each staff member to reinforce why we do it. Believe it or not, but over 95% of acknowledged customers buy something!! When you don't acknowledge them, they walk around the shop, can't find what they're looking for, and after 5 mins walk out.

I get sick of being looked down at by bike shop staff.

[Robbo]

Boyd Motorcycles. Glen was helping me.
:niceone: Cheers Glen!

Yep, they are good guys there and you will also find that their workshop and parts dept also offer friendly and helpful service.

[Bikernereid]

Had one of the awkawrd situations today whilst going to check out bike leathers. I knew that sizing would be a problem as I am an odd shape. Did the obvious thing and asked where the female leathers were and mentioned the size that I was after. Assistant was helpful and pointed me in the right direction. What I didn't like was the young girl assistant who kept hanging round the changing room like a bad smell, making me feel like I was someone on the rob and was somehow going to sneak the leathers under my jacket (like there is space!).

Being helpful is one thing but I don't appreciate the limpet behaviour. Would be interested to know if these people work on a commission basis or not?

[-JT-]

Just wanted to add our recent experience at Boyds in Hamilton. My wife and I were looking for a bike and she went in to have a look at a particular bike in her lunch break. Was approached by Glen, had a decent discussion about what we were after (both new learners, first bike). She came away with a brochure and a price, and we bought it a few weeks later. Both guys out the front there are always chatty, even to us newbs. Even if we're just browsing on a rainy day (ie: not buying) they're still up for a chat. Glen offered and has been answering questions post-sale ... riding tips etc. Great service.

[madandy]

I had an expierence recently where i wanted to buy a pair of tyres for the RSV, The helpful & knowledgable salesman (a prominent KB'er) assisted me with the decision, when i dropped the bike off the service manager said "i suppose he talked you into XXX tyre" i said no, we agreed that would be the best tyre for the bike & my style (said kb'er having had an RSV in the family) The service manager then proceded to undermine the salesman & essentialy suggested he was an idiot , (something i would be nervous to do to said kb'er) for reccomending such a tyre choice.
The service manager had forgotten that at this point, His job was to S.T.F.U & fit some tyres, The hard work was already done.
The shop in question is without doubt the best shop by far in Tauranga, & is absolutely cranking with great staff & management & yet is being spoiled by one individual.
The tyres were a fantastic choice & the bike feels great, making even more of a fool of the service manager than he had already made of himself.

Pilot Powers?
I used them as recommended by the same said bloke. He knows his stuff alright. :yes:
Same workshop dunce gave me very similar 'advise' on the weekend - as I've mentioned in my earlier post.

Now I know who I'd rather meet down at the Cornerstone for a beer :rockon:

[madbikeboy]

Was debating posting this, but...

I will never buy a bike from C***mans. The one time I tried to get a ride on the new GSXR1000 (they were the only one with the K7 + yoshi bits in stock), the guy couldn't have been less interested in giving me the keys. In his defence he was clearly retarded, and it took him an age to come talk to me, so the haemoroids were obviously causing him problems...

I ended up walking him outside to my current GSXR1000, and only then did he seem to perk up - he'd seen me as a tire kicker, when actually, I literally had the folding in my back pocket after selling my car. But, too late for him, and after being sour about it for the day, I stuck the money in my mortgage instead.

Adding insult to injury, when I was in the States last year, ZXRider took my scoot, and it needed a new battery, so he zipped across and got a Uasa from said company. It died within weeks. I took it back, but I needed the reciept (even though it would be on their system, and would take moments to find), but the guy couldn't be assed.

So, now, when people ask me where to go, I tell them "Holeshot on Barry's Point Road", the service is good, the prices are reasonable, and they're really good on all the little things (like doing the right thing every time).

[codgyoleracer]

Its a catch 22 innit.?
Knowing just what exactly a person is going to want in the way of service.
In my business I get 3 types of customer.
1) leave me alone -when I wanna talk I'll come to you (you've already pisssed me off for daring to say hello)
2) I want you to fawn all over me
3) I want you to say gidday cos I'm shy but once the ice is broken refer to 1

And I tell ya what I'd be a friggin millionare if I could work out who is which type

Last i heard you were a millionare Frosty.............. :-), - A thought, - have you tried approaching & delivering at the same time a stock list / "this months" specials list sheet (of course with your pretty mug shot on it & contact details)
I find it interesting at trade shows, that whilst offten customers dont want to be approached they WILL accept an information pack on what you do / have available.
I think you become the "delivery / service boy" in their minds rather than the shark.

FFT
Glen