Is there anything more magical than a first kiss? It takes great courage to initiate, and it is accompanied by great trepidation as you wonder how it will be received. And, if reciprocated, it elevates the relationship to a whole new level.
Everyone remembers the first kiss.
And, so it is with your first sale. Who doesn’t remember writing up their very first order? Summoning up the courage to ask for the sale, the sense of pride when the customer agrees to the purchase, the relief when the credit card machine says “approved”.
But unlike a first kiss, which is often spontaneous and comes without any training or manuals, (which is part of the charm), a first sale involves proper preparation and knowledge. You can’t really successfully stumble your way into your first sale as you can with a first kiss.
This holiday season, lots of new jewelry sales associates will be looking for their first sale. And, its up to their managers and store owners to make sure they are properly trained and armed with all the information they’ll need to make a professional presentation and to close the sale. Sure, they’ll be familiar with the store’s policies, how to write up the sales ticket, where the gift boxes are, etc., but what about their technical preparation?
How knowledgeable are they about the diamonds and gemstones they are offering? How are they going to answer questions like “How do I know this diamond is conflict free?” Or, “What is the durability of the tanzanite in this ring?” Or, my personal favorite, “Pearls grow in the sea, so why can’t I wear my pearl necklace in the pool?”
To encourage those in our industry to develop their professional skills, The 24 Karat Club offers a variety of scholarships so that promising sales associates can get the training and background they need to make successful presentations. Managers and store owners are invited to recommend suitable candidates who might benefit from a scholarship to take courses in diamonds, gemology or other related fields. Please contact your favorite 24 Karat Club member for more information about the nomination process.
One never knows where that first kiss may lead, but a happy first sale can often lead to a bright and satisfying career. The 24 Karat Club is happy to stand behind you on your professional sales development. Naturally, you are on your own for that first kiss.
Howard Kelrick is President of Finger Mate and a board member of The 24 Karat Club, SEUS. Finger Mate manufactures and installs expandable ring shanks and sells to retail jewelers throughout North America. Contact Howard at 954-458-2700 or e-mail Howard@FingerMate.com.
