Maintaining an H relationship

[papertiger]

Please focus on the title of this thread rather than each other, TY

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For advice on how to shop at your local store please do a search in Hermes Shopping sub-forum and look for your store/region/country.

 

[Gal4Dior]

@Gal4Dior - Hi, do you know if your home store has implemented the online appt request with a randomly assigned SA per their scheduling time slots for all their clients? (of course this prob doesn't apply to their VVIPs). I recall reading a post from a couple of weeks ago that the same happened at her local store - not sure if it's the same store)

I have a feeling it's only for some clients. VVIPs still get to text the SA directly for appointments, which I totally understand and had no issue with, but 5 months with this route was quite excessive, and I couldn't even wait in line for my SA either. That was the other issue I ran into.

The other person might have indicated that it went to all appointment system for another reason - I don't think it's related to my home store, which is considered a high volume store.

 

[leechiyong]

What is an appropriate response if you’re SA isn’t available than to offer another time or another SA? I agree the scheduling system could use some (a lot of) improvements, but every time I book an appointment for anything from hair to doctor’s appointments, there’s back and forth. How far in advance are these appointments booking up now?

 

[GabrielleS]

What is an appropriate response if you’re SA isn’t available than to offer another time or another SA? I agree the scheduling system could use some (a lot of) improvements, but every time I book an appointment for anything from hair to doctor’s appointments, there’s back and forth. How far in advance are these appointments booking up now?

My store just stopped appointments and product reservations and I am a long term client and have a big annual spend. It’s exhausting. I don’t have a whole day to spend in line for items that might not be there. To my detriment I told my store to let me know when appointments are available again.

I think your SA expects you to offer another time. I don’t think another SA bodes well for you but someone else may have better insight but a certain point my view is just wait it out. The economy isn’t on an upswing.

 

[880]

What is an appropriate response if you’re SA isn’t available than to offer another time or another SA? I agree the scheduling system could use some (a lot of) improvements, but every time I book an appointment for anything from hair to doctor’s appointments, there’s back and forth. How far in advance are these appointments booking up now?

I say, hey, when is your next free slot this week am or ____ dates

or I will say, I’m gone for three weeks, can I come in the week of Sept __, first or am appt, to look at —- category.

SA will say I am available x, y, z.

or hey, I’m not in this week, but rather starting back on date. Mornings are open

ETA: he usually knows what types of things I want, ie, RTW
ive texted him at length over a relatively small present, and we joked that it takes less
time to decide a bag or jacket lol

@GabrielleS , so sorry this is policy at your store
ETA: as per below, for a client of your spend, I’m sure things will loosen up again asap

 

[leechiyong]

My store just stopped appointments and product reservations. and I have a big spend. It’s exhausting. I don’t have a whole day to spend in line for items that might not be there. To my detriment I told my store to let me know when appointments are available again.

I think you SA expects you to offer another time.

I think no appointments at all is absurd, but if a store is, I’m curious what the expectations are for those who don’t feel the suggestion of an alternative time or SA is appropriate as I personally find this reasonable.

 

[GabrielleS]

I think no appointments at all is absurd, but if a store is, I’m curious what the expectations are for those who don’t feel the suggestion of an alternative time or SA is appropriate as I personally find this reasonable.

I am not sure. It’s not the first time my home store has done no appointments in covid. It didn’t last long for good clients and I had time visit and wait then and when limited appointments started I always got one. it seems to apply to everyone for now as I saw some VIP clients I know losing it when I was last there. There’s still online which is very good where I am located but I suspect no appointments won’t last forever as I have been told many clients without an appointment do not buy or buy in small quantities. It’s far wiser to give strong long term clients appointments or take product reservations. For an annual six figure spend, I am not chasing it. Love the products but a luxury shopping experience should be for mutual benefit and pleasurable. I am not chasing anymore.

 

[Miarta]

I would like some sort of reward, I finished all 436 pages . On a serious note, I have been fortunate enough to get what I wanted through years in regards to QB so me saying something may not be … well sensitive enough . The last one that I really really, reeeealy wanted was in 2014 and things were much different then. We did not have to jump through hoops to spend money and reading this is disheartening.
Me saying that I would never put up with this and I would not (unfortunately, alpha with no bull#%$$ type personality ) is very rich considering that I have large collection home. Reading this tread I almost feel guilty (in a sense how easy it was) to buy whatever was that I wanted, isn’t that the way it should be? I still shop in Hermès but I’m loyal to …… myself! That means that when I travel I go in as many stores as I please and buy what speaks to me. I have no shame telling my SA what I scored and where. We have understanding that I see other SAs and don’t want to be monogamous unless she can satisfy all my cravings, lol. I travel a lot and it would be … I don’t even know what word to use, stupid, not to go and buy things that I want, knowing that she can’t provide them.
She is also aware that I don want any QB and that takes pressure out of our relationship.
Earlier, I was reading someones post about dating pressure (after how many dates you put out) and this tread sounds very similar.
My understanding is that stock is very low right now and wouldn’t be (for people who really, really love the brand) to lay low for a while until it level off? True H love can wait for better service, better stock, better atmosphere. The shopping frenzy cheapens and lowers the whole …… experience. I don’t want to stand in line to spend 10s of thousands . I don’t want to kiss someones you know what to be given the chance to spend my money. Now, keep in mind that this is coming from someone who has the bags but , in whole honesty … I don’t think I would be buying now I don’t have stomach for it.
There is another group here, the ones who are after the THE BAG. It just doesn’t make any sense to me. If you are after the bag as 880 (sorry, don’t know how to tag) said why not go to a reseller? You are spending 1 to 5x and waiting for an offer that will not be your dream offer(likelihood of getting exact specks on first offer are pretty much 0) , why? Reputable resale places will have exact brand new babe for same if not less money and definitely less hassle and stress of never ending pursuit of holy grail.
I don’t mean to offend anyone but I’m genuinely curious. Why sustain relationships that are not on equal grounds the ones that you are afraid to ask questions ,set rules ,make moves, say no ? Now again I don’t need another bag, but if this was how i would be made to feel in order to maybe be offered one… I don’t think that I would own any. Some of the posts were breaking my heart. I know that you guys in any other aspects of your life are not easily intimidated and reduced to whisper so, what gives?
From the bottom of my heart I hope that you all get soon what your heart desires in exact leather you want. Forgive me, for I have no desire to offend.

 

[880]

Thanks for the tag, @Miarta I am flattered that after reading 437 pages,
you mentioned me lol

I agree, if you don’t want a QB from your local boutique, you can then spend freely wherever you like. The only caveat would be if a new customer who previously did not want a QB, merrily buys all his stuff retail on line, suddenly changes his mind.

Personally, I think the fact that H is now all over social media makes more people flock to the stores. That and the fear of replica bags.

most of my collection is authentic heritage leather from reseller; im pretty happy with what I have. But, I adore box, VN, barenia with patina, so vintage makes sense. people today want BNIB, prefect condition and then balk with outrage at paying a reseller price that reflects a percentage of prespend. ( I am not defending reseller premiums and I personally would not pay one)

hugs

p.s. to tag, as per above. As you type the name handle, tpf should start to prompt, so you don’t always have to recall precise spelling

Also, if you want a really challenging, emotional read lol, try the Paris thread

Paris trip for Hermes

Please try to stay on topic. I realise because of the complexity of some of the posts members may veer off but in answer do not 'go there'. For info and questions on US customs please post on the thread below: post...

forum.purseblog.com

@GabrielleS , I forgot to say that with respect to premier luxury brands, i agree with you. I only shop by appt too.

 

[Gal4Dior]

S

What is an appropriate response if you’re SA isn’t available than to offer another time or another SA? I agree the scheduling system could use some (a lot of) improvements, but every time I book an appointment for anything from hair to doctor’s appointments, there’s back and forth. How far in advance are these appointments booking up now?

So I don’t know your experience, but there was no chance to go back and forth on appointments assigned through the online system. There was just a confirm or cancel appointment button that is through automated email.

Also, there was only possibility to book 7 days in advance through the website and often times there would be no available times at all. If there were appointments, they were limited to certain days and times. Weekends there were no appointments due to the volume of customers.

H needs to do a better job managing the online system. The process for obtaining fine dining restaurant reservations are less of a pain than the H appointment request platform.

 

[rachrach1017]

S

So I don’t know your experience, but there was no chance to go back and forth on appointments assigned through the online system. There was just a confirm or cancel appointment button that is through automated email.

Also, there was only possibility to book 7 days in advance through the website and often times there would be no available times at all. If there were appointments, they were limited to certain days and times. Weekends there were no appointments due to the volume of customers.

H needs to do a better job managing the online system. The process for obtaining fine dining restaurant reservations are less of a pain than the H appointment request platform.

I’m so sorry that the appointment system wasn’t working out for you. I would be super frustrated too if that happened. I’ve read that you’ve been their client for 3 years and purchased in various categories. Were you with the same SA throughout the 3 years that you shopped at your store? (Sorry if I missed that part somewhere)

I totally understand that everyone has different experiences with their SAs. My personal experience, if I shop with the same SA for a long period and spend substantial amounts (regardless of the brands), I would make sure that I have the direct contact with the SA or the SA should at least give his/her direct number out to you knowing that you are most likely to shop exclusively with them as a courtesy.

I’ve been with H for almost a year (also spending in all categories) and my SA gave me her direct contact the second time I visited her. She introduced me to her ASM and SM on the third visit and by all means, I’m not a VIP or VVIPs. I’m just another small fish in the big H pond.

I’m sure you probably tried to talk to your SA about the appointment system issue. did h/she try to resolve the issue for you? I don’t think any SAs would want to lose 3 yrs solid business relationship when you always bring the business back to h/her.

 

[Miarta]

Thanks for the tag, @Miarta I am flattered that after reading 437 pages,
you mentioned me lol

I agree, if you don’t want a QB from your local boutique, you can then spend freely wherever you like. The only caveat would be if a new customer who previously did not want a QB, merrily buys all his stuff retail on line, suddenly changes his mind.

Personally, I think the fact that H is now all over social media makes more people flock to the stores. That and the fear of replica bags.

most of my collection is authentic heritage leather from reseller; im pretty happy with what I have. But, I adore box, VN, barenia with patina, so vintage makes sense. people today want BNIB, prefect condition and then balk with outrage at paying a reseller price that reflects a percentage of prespend. ( I am not defending reseller premiums and I personally would not pay one)

hugs

p.s. to tag, as per above. As you type the name handle, tpf should start to prompt, so you don’t always have to recall precise spelling

Also, if you want a really challenging, emotional read lol, try the Paris thread

Paris trip for Hermes

Please try to stay on topic. I realise because of the complexity of some of the posts members may veer off but in answer do not 'go there'. For info and questions on US customs please post on the thread below: post...

forum.purseblog.com

@GabrielleS , I forgot to say that with respect to premier luxury brands, i agree with you. I only shop by appt too.

Dear Jesus, you gave me a lots of homework!!! Lol By the way , thanks! Because of you I bought my fist pair of… gasp …Birkenstock!

 

[Gal4Dior]

I’m so sorry that the appointment system wasn’t working out for you. I would be super frustrated too if that happened. I’ve read that you’ve been their client for 3 years and purchased in various categories. Were you with the same SA throughout the 3 years that you shopped at your store? (Sorry if I missed that part somewhere)

I totally understand that everyone has different experiences with their SAs. My personal experience, if I shop with the same SA for a long period and spend substantial amounts (regardless of the brands), I would make sure that I have the direct contact with the SA or the SA should at least give his/her direct number out to you knowing that you are most likely to shop exclusively with them as a courtesy.

I’ve been with H for almost a year (also spending in all categories) and my SA gave me her direct contact the second time I visited her. She introduced me to her ASM and SM on the third visit and by all means, I’m not a VIP or VVIPs. I’m just another small fish in the big H pond.

I’m sure you probably tried to talk to your SA about the appointment system issue. did h/she try to resolve the issue for you? I don’t think any SAs would want to lose 3 yrs solid business relationship when you always bring the business back to h/her.

Hi, yes. Same SA. The appointment system was implemented earlier this year due to level of volume the store was experiencing. So when I asked about appts with my SA, I was sent the link to the appointment platform on the website, so I understood it as a change in store policy and the SA could not book appointments for me anymore direct. With all things, H - who knows what is real store policy. Lol.

I’m sure direct appointments were made with VVIP clients - which, as I said, I understood completely if appointments are limited, but to make the platform so cumbersome with no follow-up options was incredibly exasperating.

Also, I believe it’s been closer to 4 years now with the same SA, now that I think about it.

 

[smoothsailor]

Hi, yes. Same SA. The appointment system was implemented earlier this year due to level of volume the store was experiencing. So when I asked about appts with my SA, I was sent the link to the appointment platform on the website, so I understood it as a change in store policy and the SA could not book appointments for me anymore direct. With all things, H - who knows what is real store policy. Lol.

I’m sure direct appointments were made with VVIP clients - which, as I said, I understood completely if appointments are limited, but to make the platform so cumbersome with no follow-up options was incredibly exasperating.

Also, I believe it’s been closer to 4 years now with the same SA, now that I think about it.

You shopped with an SA for 4 years and you don’t have her contact number? If you have, wouldn’t it be easier to get her assurance that shopping with any other SAs in the same store will not affect your chance to be offered a QB in future since the system is working this way. Then just make an appointment to go in according to your schedule. After all, it is the SM who is approving your bag.

Actually if your SA treasures your relationship, he/She will find a way to make it work. If he/she is not trying hard enough to sustain the relationship, it’s probably time to end and start another one.

Frankly, I have had a selling supervisor told me he was ending a relationship and trying to pass a customer to another SA within the same store. Roadblocks could be there for a reason.

 

[Gal4Dior]

You shopped with an SA for 4 years and you don’t have her contact number? If you have, wouldn’t it be easier to get her assurance that shopping with any other SAs in the same store will not affect your chance to be offered a QB in future since the system is working this way. Then just make an appointment to go in according to your schedule. After all, it is the SM who is approving your bag.

Actually if your SA treasures your relationship, he/She will find a way to make it work. If he/she is not trying hard enough to sustain the relationship, it’s probably time to end and start another one.

Frankly, I have had a selling supervisor told me he was ending a relationship and trying to pass a customer to another SA within the same store. Roadblocks could be there for a reason.

I have had my SA’s contact information for at least 3 years, so that’s not the issue. I honestly think it’s store policy and not necessarily SA. My home store is a high volume store with many big spenders. I’m at the low end of the spectrum, I’m sure. SM/H corporate is likely making the decision regarding the QB bags and many times the SAs have to dole out these lazy excuses on their behalf to unsuspecting clients.

Except this client is suspect, lol! H doesn’t need me and honestly, the excess of some folks who need hundreds of QBs is getting to be too much for me to stomach, especially while I witness others around me in lower income brackets struggling to make do on the daily.

 

[WingNut]

I would like some sort of reward, I finished all 436 pages . On a serious note, I have been fortunate enough to get what I wanted through years in regards to QB so me saying something may not be … well sensitive enough . The last one that I really really, reeeealy wanted was in 2014 and things were much different then. We did not have to jump through hoops to spend money and reading this is disheartening.
Me saying that I would never put up with this and I would not (unfortunately, alpha with no bull#%$$ type personality ) is very rich considering that I have large collection home. Reading this tread I almost feel guilty (in a sense how easy it was) to buy whatever was that I wanted, isn’t that the way it should be? I still shop in Hermès but I’m loyal to …… myself! That means that when I travel I go in as many stores as I please and buy what speaks to me. I have no shame telling my SA what I scored and where. We have understanding that I see other SAs and don’t want to be monogamous unless she can satisfy all my cravings, lol. I travel a lot and it would be … I don’t even know what word to use, stupid, not to go and buy things that I want, knowing that she can’t provide them.
She is also aware that I don want any QB and that takes pressure out of our relationship.
Earlier, I was reading someones post about dating pressure (after how many dates you put out) and this tread sounds very similar.
My understanding is that stock is very low right now and wouldn’t be (for people who really, really love the brand) to lay low for a while until it level off? True H love can wait for better service, better stock, better atmosphere. The shopping frenzy cheapens and lowers the whole …… experience. I don’t want to stand in line to spend 10s of thousands . I don’t want to kiss someones you know what to be given the chance to spend my money. Now, keep in mind that this is coming from someone who has the bags but , in whole honesty … I don’t think I would be buying now I don’t have stomach for it.
There is another group here, the ones who are after the THE BAG. It just doesn’t make any sense to me. If you are after the bag as 880 (sorry, don’t know how to tag) said why not go to a reseller? You are spending 1 to 5x and waiting for an offer that will not be your dream offer(likelihood of getting exact specks on first offer are pretty much 0) , why? Reputable resale places will have exact brand new babe for same if not less money and definitely less hassle and stress of never ending pursuit of holy grail.
I don’t mean to offend anyone but I’m genuinely curious. Why sustain relationships that are not on equal grounds the ones that you are afraid to ask questions ,set rules ,make moves, say no ? Now again I don’t need another bag, but if this was how i would be made to feel in order to maybe be offered one… I don’t think that I would own any. Some of the posts were breaking my heart. I know that you guys in any other aspects of your life are not easily intimidated and reduced to whisper so, what gives?
From the bottom of my heart I hope that you all get soon what your heart desires in exact leather you want. Forgive me, for I have no desire to offend.

@Miarta you took the words right out of my mouth. Just about everything you said (including personality , and being able to get bags in the past) is spot on with my experience and perspective. I plan on waiting till the dust dies down. I'm not going to twist myself in a knot spending more than I should to play some dumb game to achieve that status bag. I've got plenty. I will use this opportunity to get the bags or items I don't yet have (Bolide, GP, 24/24, non-H items...I plan my spends carefully) and if something else QB-related (How I HATE the term "quota bag") comes along, fine. If not, fine. There are far more important things in life than the chase to me. The power ultimately lies in the hands of the consumer. We can chose to walk away till the environment suits us.