I just called a salesperson a shiny bauble. Yup, to her face. I said: “For me, right now, you are a shiny bauble.” Here’s how it all went down.
Salesperson: Hello Karen, how are you doing today?
Me: I’m doing great. How about you?
S: Just great. I’m with ABC Company and want to talk to you about the services we offer in the area of blah, blah, blah. I have reviewed your specific situation and we can definitely improve blah, blah, blah. In fact, one way you can improve now is to blah, blah, blah.
Me: You know, you’re right. I could stand to improve and I can see how the tip you just provided would make an immediate difference.
S: We have a great offer right now, for only $xx we will go over your situation with you in more depth to show you specifically how we can help you. And there is no obligation on your part to go any further.
Me: I appreciate your offer, but you are a shiny bauble.
S: A what?
Me: A shiny bauble. You see each quarter I review my strategic plan to determine what I need to concentrate on for that quarter in order to achieve what I want to accomplish. I write three clarifying questions to help keep me on track. This helps me to identify where I want and need to spend my time and money at this time.
And while I can probably benefit from the services you are offering me they are not what I am concentrating on right now. So, for me at this time, you are a shiny bauble.
S: (Laughs) I’ve never been called that before, but it makes sense. When do you think that your priorities might change?
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how I called a salesperson a shiny bauble.
I encourage you to try this the next time a shiny bauble, excuse me salesperson, calls you up on the phone. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you.
Have a great day!
Karen