An open letter to all retail sales people . . .

disclaimer: I'll start off by saying, I am in no way bashing anyone who works in retail with this post.

Dear Mr. Nordstom shoe salesman,

I wanted to send this out to you in the cosmic universe that is the internet in hopes of expressing my profound confusion at your behavior with me today while I was shopping at your store.

I had come into your store in the hopes of finding a pair of shoes that would match some outfits that I had purchased at another store. I rarely get a chance to go shopping by myself, and was looking forward to a relaxing browse around your department.

You were extremely helpful in pointing out some very nice shoes that were very close to what I was looking for. And when I mentioned that $235 for a pair of thong sandles were a little out of my price range, you didn't bat and eye and were very kind to show me some others I could afford.

It was also very nice of you to arrange to have the right size shipped to my home at no cost to me.

What I don't understand was why, after I told you I was using gift cards (that I had received as presents) to pay for the shoes that you suddenly developed a nervous issue regarding my purchase. Particularly regarding the subject of returning the shoes.

I never expressed an interest in returning them, nor did I ask about a returns policy because I rarely return items (especially if I have tried them on, etc.)

On top of that, when I explained to you, very calmly I might add, that I understood there might be some issues regarding a return and that I was fine with that, you proceeded to get more jumpy and began treating me like a child who doesn't know how to keep track of things like receipts/gift cards/etc.

I have spent nearly my entire working career in retail in many areas including: food, clothing, and furniture . . . and I would never, and I mean NEVER have treated a customer the way you treated me today.

I have two words of advice for you . . . Lighten up!

Thank you!