We Asked: Is it OK to sell retail products to clients? Why, or why not?

Here is what you told us...

I stock Belavi products, eye pillows, hot/cold water bags, infant-massage videos and booklets. I have a sign mentioning they are available. I seldom sell very much. I have to keep them in the closet, and I have a small client base. I don't see anything wrong with having products available—things like essential oils, creams and CDs, because sometimes [clients] do ask where they can purchase them. [It’s] convenience for them, and a little bit extra for me. Personally, I wouldn't push products like a salesperson might; I only make suggestions if asked.
Debbie Kenney
Sulphur, Louisiana

I subscribe to several magazines, and one of them is a spa magazine. There was an article in it about massage therapists selling products. One of the therapists expressed concern about her ethical dilemma of trying to sell a product when the client has just gotten off the table. As well she should have! Massage therapy is a healing profession. We were taught in school that a client should first of all be safe. I think that means safe from aggressive sales tactics. If I went to a spa and was hounded by a therapist to buy products, I would not go back and I sure wouldn't buy their products. I have my own private practice, and I have a few products and unusual articles for sale. If a client wants to look for a few minutes at their leisure pre- or post-massage they are more than welcome. If you sell products, have a separate area to separate the two moods. I have NEVER tried to sell products or told a client that they NEED this product or that. I am an educated consumer; if I want something, I will seek it out and buy it. What I do NOT need is someone trying to sell me something when I need to relax.
Karla K. Hickey
Summersville, West Virginia

The sales industry has been around for as long as human beings could communicate. We sell to friends, families and loved ones without even knowing it. At the time we kid with each other, saying, "You sound like a commercial!" or, "Are you working for this company?" Honestly though, sales in itself can be a very rewarding and honest practice. Unfortunately, when the average person thinks of a salesperson, they conjure up the image of an overbearing, rude and continuously persistent person, who occasionally seems to have a grin that strongly resembles a shark. Most people detect this desperation or dishonesty. For myself, I can only sell what I have a passion for. Perhaps this sounds too in-depth, or someone would think it would take too much of their energy, but, returning to the grinning shark scenario, people will pick up either energy. If you love and believe in what you sell, then it will come without effort; you will sell the product without realizing it. When clients find themselves in a new field, they are completely unsure about the products or services that are being offered. Chances are they will greatly appreciate the guidance. That's the attitude one must convey: "I am here to help you, to guide you into selecting the best product for you." There is no need to push your sales tactics on someone, or treat them as though they are inferior due to their lack of education on the service or the product. One should take this opportunity to become a teacher of sorts, always concentrating on how this can help a person. These positive thoughts during the sale will almost always result in a good outcome. Even if the person walks out of the establishment without purchasing anything due to lack of time or money, they will remember your smile, your knowledge and, hopefully, your name.
M. Orchid Rodriguez
Miami, Florida