Why do stores try to shame or pressure me to buy more expensive items than I want?

Question

For instance, I wanted to buy a twin size mattress (only need a mattress). Went to a bedding store. The sales agent asked if it was for me. I said it was. She then asked why I would ever want a twin size mattress. I said I had always had a twin size bed. My foundation and frame are for twin size. She said twin beds are really only for children or for temporary use, like when you have company they might only stay a few days. Then of course, I'd have to get a new frame, a new foundation and new sheets to fit a larger mattress. I left the store feeling like I was being forced to buy something I didn't want. They lost a sale with those high-pressure tactics. Was she giving me the business saying that twin size beds are for kids or company?

Sandy · Accepted Answer

Sales people sometimes work on commission and the more they sell the more they make. 
If you want a twin bed you should buy one.

? · Answer

It is NOT a 'shame' to suggest customers buy something in a different size.  Sales people work for Commissions............the more they sell - the more they make.  This salesperson should have NEVER made the comment about a twin size bed being for children only.  I mother always slept in a twin size bed and no one said a thing to her.

Allison · Answer

Because you LET them.  Tell the biatch to shut up next time.

Lynn · Answer

Yes, she was certainly giving you the business. Twin beds are for people that want a twin bed -- you sleep alone, a bigger bed won't fit in the space, whatever. The reason stores try to pressure you into buying more expensive items is they make more money when you spend more. That mattress salesman was probably working on commission so it was in HER best interest to get you to buy a more expensive mattress (especially knowing you would have had to buy a whole new bed frame, and box spring, too) and she didn't care about YOUR best interest. Don't let them bully you.

garry · Answer

its called an up sale , more profit for them at your expense . quite normal . anything to get an extra buck out of you .

? · Answer

Well sales people be sellin. Did she also slightly hint that a queen mattress turns her on and a king just might seal the deal?

18 gibbs 20 · Answer

They work on commission. They try to up sell.  Nothing wrong with a twin

Jesus · Answer

Single people sleep in twin beds all the time. Go to the salvation army or to the Goodwill store you will find good mattresses and box springs that have been professionally steam cleaned for under $100 clean healthy mattresses with box springs for $100.

Sandy · Answer

If you're buying your first bed because you moved out, they're kinda right. just try the bigger bed and you'll see how nice it is to have so much more room. you will never go back to a twin bed.

Anonymous · Answer

she was probably forced to that by her manager, and then she is blamed if you say no and then she either given a bad job review or fired

Why do stores try to shame or pressure me to buy more expensive items than I want?

13 Answers