As a parent of a toddler in a chilly climate, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself at the mall this holiday season. It’s warm, free, and a much-needed escape from crayon-cleaning duties. While navigating the mall, you may soon realize that avoiding kiosk workers is just as challenging as shielding your little one from the Build-A-Bear store. These employees seem to multiply like rabbits during the holiday rush, eagerly pouncing on unsuspecting shoppers.
Fortunately, there are effective strategies for you and your toddler to navigate the mall without falling prey to a barrage of unsolicited sales pitches.
Strategy 1: Say No to Samples
As you step into the cheerful environment of a department store like Macy’s, it’s easy to feel tempted by a kiosk’s enticing sample. But resist that urge! That tiny cup of peppermint tea might be delightful, but it will lead to an awkward encounter where you’re stuck listening to a sales pitch while your child protests at your legs. An hour later, you might find yourself with a year’s supply of tea, a toddler in need of a change, and a lighter wallet.
Instead, remember that even seemingly harmless items—like a bamboo pillow or an ergonomic mouse—can become time-consuming traps. I once lost twenty precious minutes after being lured in by nostalgia over a gadget I hadn’t seen since my ‘Oregon Trail’ days. Don’t be fooled; stick to your plan and move on.
Strategy 2: Master the Art of Disengagement
Channel your inner TSA agent and look unapproachable. Your toddler is a natural anti-sales force, so use that to your advantage. The rule here is simple: avoid eye contact with kiosk workers at all costs. While a friendly smile may feel warm and inviting, it can quickly lead to a conversation that ends with you carrying an unwanted purchase.
If you’re not naturally equipped with a stern demeanor, consider shopping with a friend who has a more intimidating presence (perhaps a feisty toddler). Tantrums are a great shield against eager salespeople, so delay that nap and let your child’s antics work in your favor.
However, if you encounter a particularly persistent kiosk worker, you might need to take your strategy up a notch. I once faced a situation where a sales rep physically obstructed my path, attempting to sell me brow-threading services. It’s bewildering how some services claim to be life-changing when they’re offered right next to a Cinnabon stand!
Strategy 3: Take Charge
For those kiosk employees who are truly relentless, it’s time for a bold approach. Don’t wait for them to approach you—take the initiative! Bring along a product of your own, like homemade oven mitts or your own version of their overpriced wind chimes, but priced a dollar lower. This unique tactic isn’t covered in their training, and it will clear your path to the mall’s play area, where your child can have their fun.
Alternatively, you can keep asking for additional samples. If they style one strand of your hair, demand a full makeover for you and your child. When they finish, suggest that you’ll return the next day for another demonstration, and whip out your calendar for scheduling. I promise that booth will vanish overnight, leaving you free to stroll the mall without interruption—until the Build-A-Bear store comes into view!
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