Maintaining an H relationship

[papertiger]

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

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[hbr]

My SM assisted me my second trip into the store because my SA was swamped. I had no idea who she was and was already so nervous about shopping at H lol. Even after the SM told me not to worry and that any sale would be put under my SA's name (I'm sure I was oozing anxiety and she could see it all over my face, hah), I was still super nervous and only picked up a couple things that day. I wrapped up as my SA freed up and then my SA told me that was her boss helping me The SM gave me her card and I texted her thank you afterwards.

I say hi every time I see her in store and I recently shot my SM a text asking if she would be willing to assist me since my SA was on leave. She was able to tell me the date my SA would be back, so it was really helpful to have some sort of relationship with the SM!

So helpful! Thank you 🙏

 

[Bdbunny]

I’d like everyone’s input on this- besides working with your SA, have any of you created a relationship eith the store manager? I ask bc during my last visit, I was offered a wishlist item and as I was taking care of payment, the store manager was helping my SA check me out etc. We got to chatting and we introduced ourselves. He was so lovely and since the store was closing he was there with my SA to walk me out.

Was thinking of sending him a thank you email. Thoughts?

What do you mean by "create a relationship"? Do you mean a hi hello relationship or a shopping relationship? I always chat with the store manager if she's on the floor. She usually comes over to say hello, or sits down with me and we chit chat about random things, especially if my SA is finishing up with another client. The SM usually helps out when the SAs are busy and they sort of just go around the floor assisting here and there, greeting different clients. One time when my SA was out on medical, the SM worked with us directly to help locate an item that needed to be transferred in, but we generally don't communicate with her directly. I had a SM who used to text or email me when something arrived at the store or invite me to events, but she's no longer there. Anyways, I would just say hi and chat with him next time you see him. Of course it's good to have a good relationship with the SM, but probably no need to send an email... at least I wouldn't. 🤷‍♀️

 

[acrowcounted]

What do you mean by "create a relationship"? Do you mean a hi hello relationship or a shopping relationship? I always chat with the store manager if she's on the floor. She usually comes over to say hello, or sits down with me and we chit chat about random things, especially if my SA is finishing up with another client. The SM usually helps out when the SAs are busy and they sort of just go around the floor assisting here and there, greeting different clients. One time when my SA was out on medical, the SM worked with us directly to help locate an item that needed to be transferred in, but we generally don't communicate with her directly. I had a SM who used to text or email me when something arrived at the store or invite me to events, but she's no longer there. Anyways, I would just say hi and chat with him next time you see him. Of course it's good to have a good relationship with the SM, but probably no need to send an email... at least I wouldn't. 🤷‍♀️

I agree. Randomly reaching out to the SM to say thanks is kind of weird and might be seen as desperate. Just always be pleasant in person and I’m sure you’ll be thought of fondly.

 

[hbr]

What do you mean by "create a relationship"? Do you mean a hi hello relationship or a shopping relationship? I always chat with the store manager if she's on the floor. She usually comes over to say hello, or sits down with me and we chit chat about random things, especially if my SA is finishing up with another client. The SM usually helps out when the SAs are busy and they sort of just go around the floor assisting here and there, greeting different clients. One time when my SA was out on medical, the SM worked with us directly to help locate an item that needed to be transferred in, but we generally don't communicate with her directly. I had a SM who used to text or email me when something arrived at the store or invite me to events, but she's no longer there. Anyways, I would just say hi and chat with him next time you see him. Of course it's good to have a good relationship with the SM, but probably no need to send an email... at least I wouldn't. 🤷‍♀️

Thanks. I should have been clear. Def not a shopping relationship as I’m happy with my SA. A hi hello would be nice but since I’m not local to this store it won’t be too frequent anyway.

I agree. Randomly reaching out to the SM to say thanks is kind of weird and might be seen as desperate. Just always be pleasant in person and I’m sure you’ll be thought of fondly.

Thanks. That’s what I was worried it would be perceived as- desperate.

 

[haute okole]

Thanks. I should have been clear. Def not a shopping relationship as I’m happy with my SA. A hi hello would be nice but since I’m not local to this store it won’t be too frequent anyway.

Thanks. That’s what I was worried it would be perceived as- desperate.

I noticed that you shop at BH sometimes. If you are talking about BH, please do not send a note to who you think is the manager. You stated that the manager is a he. The store manager at BH is definitely a woman. For some reason, some people think this very handsome SA is a manager. Although he may have a title, he is definitely not the manager.

 

[hbr]

I noticed that you shop at BH sometimes. If you are talking about BH, please do not send a note to who you think is the manager. You stated that the manager is a he. The store manager at BH is definitely a woman. For some reason, some people think this very handsome SA is a manager. Although he may have a title, he is definitely not the manager.

Thanks. I used to shop there. Not anymore.

 

[MacawGuy]

Hey all - sorry for this long post, but I feel like I’m in a weird situation now at my local shop and not sure what the best thing to do is. Last year I switched from SF to Dallas because I live in the DFW area and my business travel to SF stopped. During my first visit we worked with a new SA to get a bracelet for my mom and twillies for my B35. Another SA during that visit gave us a tutorial on how to tie them on. On our next visit the original SA was not in and so the SA who helped with the twilly tying (SA #2) helped us. I went been back a few times after that, too, and made purchases with her each time.

A few weeks ago I reached out to see if she was around but never heard back. When we arrived, our original SA found us and helped us that day. I did see SA #2 for about 10 seconds but she was busy and it turned out to be an Easter event weekend at the shopping center which was why I assumed she’d never txted me back. I went again this past weekend, did not hear back from SA #2 after txting earlier in the week but this time she wasn’t in (and I think she’s probably on a trip she had mentioned). But our original SA was there and came up to us and ended up helping me find the bracelet I’ve been wanting.

So now I’m working with both? Is this bad, or am I overthinking it too much? I’m loyal to the store, but I know SA relationships are important too. And I feel like it’ll be super awkward next time I go in. They’re both nice, although the first SA never even shared contact info with us, and the second did share and told me to txt but rarely replies (I know she reads them because she mentions the content about wishlists, etc when we do chat in person).

For context, the reason I still go despite not hearing back is because the store is still quite far from me, and I go when I am able, on days off work. Not trying to be difficult.

 

[hbr]

Hey all - sorry for this long post, but I feel like I’m in a weird situation now at my local shop and not sure what the best thing to do is. Last year I switched from SF to Dallas because I live in the DFW area and my business travel to SF stopped. During my first visit we worked with a new SA to get a bracelet for my mom and twillies for my B35. Another SA during that visit gave us a tutorial on how to tie them on. On our next visit the original SA was not in and so the SA who helped with the twilly tying (SA #2) helped us. I went been back a few times after that, too, and made purchases with her each time.

A few weeks ago I reached out to see if she was around but never heard back. When we arrived, our original SA found us and helped us that day. I did see SA #2 for about 10 seconds but she was busy and it turned out to be an Easter event weekend at the shopping center which was why I assumed she’d never txted me back. I went again this past weekend, did not hear back from SA #2 after txting earlier in the week but this time she wasn’t in (and I think she’s probably on a trip she had mentioned). But our original SA was there and came up to us and ended up helping me find the bracelet I’ve been wanting.

So now I’m working with both? Is this bad, or am I overthinking it too much? I’m loyal to the store, but I know SA relationships are important too. And I feel like it’ll be super awkward next time I go in. They’re both nice, although the first SA never even shared contact info with us, and the second did share and told me to txt but rarely replies (I know she reads them because she mentions the content about wishlists, etc when we do chat in person).

For context, the reason I still go despite not hearing back is because the store is still quite far from me, and I go when I am able, on days off work. Not trying to be difficult.

I can understand why you’re confused about this! Can you ask SA 1 to give you her contact info so you can create a dialogue with her and plan future visits? Seems like SA 2 is busy and maybe doesn’t have as much time?

 

[MacawGuy]

I can understand why you’re confused about this! Can you ask SA 1 to give you her contact info so you can create a dialogue with her and plan future visits? Seems like SA 2 is busy and maybe doesn’t have as much time?

Yeah, that’s a good idea - as soon as we were driving away Friday I realized I did not ask for her cell number and smacked myself.

The other complicating factor that I didn’t mention in my first post is that SA 2 offered and sold me my Evelyne and knows about my ‘dream bag’ wish while SA 1 hasn’t ever asked. SA 2 even brought out the SO kit once so I can look at all the blue leather options in person vs pictures online.

What I’m really worried/stressed about is walking in next time and seeing them both at once. I know I brought this upon myself though.

 

[Capitaliste]

Hey all - sorry for this long post, but I feel like I’m in a weird situation now at my local shop and not sure what the best thing to do is. Last year I switched from SF to Dallas because I live in the DFW area and my business travel to SF stopped. During my first visit we worked with a new SA to get a bracelet for my mom and twillies for my B35. Another SA during that visit gave us a tutorial on how to tie them on. On our next visit the original SA was not in and so the SA who helped with the twilly tying (SA #2) helped us. I went been back a few times after that, too, and made purchases with her each time.

A few weeks ago I reached out to see if she was around but never heard back. When we arrived, our original SA found us and helped us that day. I did see SA #2 for about 10 seconds but she was busy and it turned out to be an Easter event weekend at the shopping center which was why I assumed she’d never txted me back. I went again this past weekend, did not hear back from SA #2 after txting earlier in the week but this time she wasn’t in (and I think she’s probably on a trip she had mentioned). But our original SA was there and came up to us and ended up helping me find the bracelet I’ve been wanting.

So now I’m working with both? Is this bad, or am I overthinking it too much? I’m loyal to the store, but I know SA relationships are important too. And I feel like it’ll be super awkward next time I go in. They’re both nice, although the first SA never even shared contact info with us, and the second did share and told me to txt but rarely replies (I know she reads them because she mentions the content about wishlists, etc when we do chat in person).

For context, the reason I still go despite not hearing back is because the store is still quite far from me, and I go when I am able, on days off work. Not trying to be difficult.

So, I assume that you got your B35 from San Francisco store last year; Is that right? And, you have decided to shop in a local store nearby where you actually live (i.e., DFW area). You found 2 great SAs who have been helping you in the same Dallas store, correct? The issue is that these 2 SAs are not always available or not responsive at times, etc. resulted in having 2 SAs, correct?

I think even if the pre-spend is store-specific, it should have been really 1 SA who you should have consistently collaborated with. Which SA do you feel better to work with? I think you will eventually need to stick with one SA and work consistently with that person only in the future.

I could be wrong, but it's purely my thoughts thus far. I am also hoping to learn from other advanced shoppers.

 

[hbr]

Yeah, that’s a good idea - as soon as we were driving away Friday I realized I did not ask for her cell number and smacked myself.

The other complicating factor that I didn’t mention in my first post is that SA 2 offered and sold me my Evelyne and knows about my ‘dream bag’ wish while SA 1 hasn’t ever asked. SA 2 even brought out the SO kit once so I can look at all the blue leather options in person vs pictures online.

What I’m really worried/stressed about is walking in next time and seeing them both at once. I know I brought this upon myself though.

Oh well that really makes it even more complicated! Based on all you’ve shared it seems like SA 2 is your SA- she knows your preferences and has more of a connection with you.

As awkward as it will be to walk in a see both, you need to make a decision sooner than later. I’m sure this has happened before so don’t worry too much about upsetting SA 1. She clearly wasn’t too invested since she hasn’t offered her contact info after multiple opportunities.

If you still want SA 1’s phone number maybe you can call the store and ask?

 

[hbr]

I’d like everyone’s input on this- besides working with your SA, have any of you created a relationship eith the store manager? I ask bc during my last visit, I was offered a wishlist item and as I was taking care of payment, the store manager was helping my SA check me out etc. We got to chatting and we introduced ourselves. He was so lovely and since the store was closing he was there with my SA to walk me out.

Was thinking of sending him a thank you email. Thoughts?

UPDATE: I went with my gut and decided to call the store and speak to the manager directly. He was unavailable so I left a message. He called me back and he couldn’t have been more grateful and appreciative of my call. I expressed my gratitude and appreciation for the level of service that he and my SA provided. It was a lovely conversation. I was being very honest and authentic and I believe that is important. People can read through BS

Anyway- just wanted to share. Hope this is helpful.

 

[storytotell]

Looking for advice /etiquette when it comes to reminding your SA about QBs for introverts. In general, I would avoid asking for anything at any cost lol

My home store is in Canada, I'm ~1:1, 1+ year with my SA, and am looking for a K28 in a neutral colour (first QB). I visit H store monthly and feel too uncomfortable enquiring about my QB status every time.

I have not gotten particular timelines from my SA yet, but through the conversations, there seems to be an acknowledgment of "getting me a bag". Being an introvert, I do not really chat for hours with my SA, we typically briefly chat about travel/weather/how busy the store is and then go straight to the point. I pay, and my SA walks me to the entrance...and then I find myself walking away with my purchase questioning myself why I did not ask about the wishlist item lol.

Any advice /coaching tips?

 

[GreenBagsOnly]

Looking for advice /etiquette when it comes to reminding your SA about QBs for introverts. In general, I would avoid asking for anything at any cost lol

My home store is in Canada, I'm ~1:1, 1+ year with my SA, and am looking for a K28 in a neutral colour (first QB). I visit H store monthly and feel too uncomfortable enquiring about my QB status every time.

I have not gotten particular timelines from my SA yet, but through the conversations, there seems to be an acknowledgment of "getting me a bag". Being an introvert, I do not really chat for hours with my SA, we typically briefly chat about travel/weather/how busy the store is and then go straight to the point. I pay, and my SA walks me to the entrance...and then I find myself walking away with my purchase questioning myself why I did not ask about the wishlist item lol.

Any advice /coaching tips?

I love this. Fellow introvert. I posted years ago about being an introvert and shopping at H (in addition to the challenge of moving around a lot in the last decade) and got a suck-it-up, Buttercup-type response...

I will PM you about my experiences... Why? Because we are introverts!

 

[benjinito]

Looking for advice /etiquette when it comes to reminding your SA about QBs for introverts. In general, I would avoid asking for anything at any cost lol

My home store is in Canada, I'm ~1:1, 1+ year with my SA, and am looking for a K28 in a neutral colour (first QB). I visit H store monthly and feel too uncomfortable enquiring about my QB status every time.

I have not gotten particular timelines from my SA yet, but through the conversations, there seems to be an acknowledgment of "getting me a bag". Being an introvert, I do not really chat for hours with my SA, we typically briefly chat about travel/weather/how busy the store is and then go straight to the point. I pay, and my SA walks me to the entrance...and then I find myself walking away with my purchase questioning myself why I did not ask about the wishlist item lol.

Any advice /coaching tips?

Get married. Let your significant other do the talking for you