HELOISE: Shoppers should be allowed to browse

Dear Readers: Recently, one of my assistants was shopping for a sofa. She was greeted at the door by a sales associate, asked specifically what she was looking for, walked right over to two sofa choices, then asked which one she liked.

From that point on, the sales associate would not leave Laura’s side, showing fabric swatches and pushing for selections to be made (even following polite attempts to ask for time to consider all the choices). Laura stated that she felt there was no way she could take her time in selecting a sofa, much less wander the entire store (she was actually interested in other furniture pieces as well, but just never stated that), and because of this pressure, she left and never went back.

Discussing this in the office, we all agreed that we appreciate the sales associate’s attentiveness and understand she is most likely working on commission, but some thought the technique was a bit rushed.

Do you like to browse alone, or do you prefer to have a knowledgeable salesperson there with you to answer questions, give you options, etc.?

And let’s hear from salespeople. What do you expect from consumers?

Heloise

Dear Heloise: A reader suggested putting a deadbolt on the bedroom door for people who live alone. When my mother utilized her emergency alert system, which automatically calls the paramedics and/or fire department, they found her door locked. This increased the time it took to get to her. They told her not to lock the bedroom door in the future.

Anne, via e-mail

Anne, thanks for the information. Most times, this should not be a problem. Readers, keep this in mind when deciding whether to lock your door.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: I have an aunt who is bedridden. We put a multipocketed shoe bag under the lamp base and let it hang off the night table.

She is no longer frustrated when grabbing for something. We put her eyeglasses, tissues, candy, magazines, comb and everything else in these easy-to-reach and organized pockets. It is amazing how well it works.

Danny in New York

Keeping organized is important in any situation. Just be sure the shoe bag is secure and doesn’t cause the lamp to fall.

Heloise

Dear Heloise: After having my pillbox (with the press-open lids) come open in the baggage area during a plane flight, I didn’t want the same thing to happen again. I found the best solution ever — plastic wrap wound around the box!

G.F. in Carrollton, Texas

Dear Heloise: I can’t seem to remember my car tag number, so I took a picture of it with my cell phone. Now if my car is stolen, I have the tag number on my phone to give to the police.

Janine in Bowie, Texas

Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000, fax it to 210-HELOISE or e-mail it to Heloise@Heloise.com.

King Features Syndicate