How to attract the attention you might desperately need — even when there’s not a salesperson in sight. From J. Alexander, author of Follow the Model: Miss J’s Guide to Unleashing Presence, Poise, and Power

Picture this: You’re on a shopping mission, have money burning a hole in your pocket, find exactly what you’re looking for, and there’s no salesperson in sight. (Save for one lady in the corner who’s peering over like she’d rather die than waste precious words on you.) I could fully sit here and lecture shopkeepers who run their businesses poorly — after all, the customer really is always right and good service should be the staple of any fine department store or boutique — but in the interest of helping you out, here are a few tips that will help you attract the attention you might desperately need.

1. Dress well. No one will want to help you if you look like a mess. That means all your loose ends are tucked in, your hair is brushed, and you look all-around put-together. A nice bag and unscuffed shoes (that actually fit) help. But if you’re a famous mess, then dress however you want.
2. Be polite. It doesn’t behoove anyone to act all entitled and rude. Follow the golden rule and most people will return the favor.
3. Choose your target wisely. If someone looks crazy busy and preoccupied, chances are they’ll get even more flustered, if not downright angry, when you approach them. Nothing’s more frustrating than being told, “Get in line!”
4. Ask questions. As a consumer and potentially paying customer, you have every right to inquire where that fabric was made or if this or that cut would look flattering on you. Engage someone by inquiring not only about the article you’re interested in, but also by simply asking, “And how are you doing today?”
5. Butter them up. On that note, flattery will get you everywhere. If you want a salesperson’s undivided attention, compliment them on what they’re wearing, their hair, whatever you sincerely like about them. Then segue into what it is you need help with. You’ll automatically be their new favorite customer.
6. On second thought, as a paying customer, should one kiss that much ass?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
J. Alexander, the author of Follow the Model: Miss J’s Guide to Unleashing Presence, Poise, and Power (Copyright © 2009 by Alexander Jenkins), has traveled around the world casting and coaching models for countless top designers. Now he is a television personality well-known for his work as a runway coach and judge on America’s Next Top Model.

MORE ARTICLES BY THE AUTHOR

• Behind the Scenes of America’s Next Top Model
• How to Fake a Pair of Louboutins: Inexpensive Fashion Tips

LEARN MORE

• Read Chapter 1 of Follow the Model: Miss J’s Guide to Unleashing Presence, Poise, and Power
• Watch a video with the author and find out how he got his nickname, went from accountant to runway coach, and more