The phrase “knowledge is power,” was coined by Sir Francis Bacon in 1597. While that was over 400 years ago, the phrase still rings true today and is prevalent in the remodel industry. Yet, we still come across them: salespeople that go blank thinking of ways to either answer your question, or get out of answering it. It’s bad enough when all you want to know is where the bathroom is, but if you’re asking a kitchen professional about a product they carry – and they can’t answer you – then you should be worried.
Your duty as a kitchen buyer
As a consumer, it’s important that you do some homework so that you’ll have an idea of what you want to incorporate in your kitchen or bathroom project; but it’s the kitchen expert’s job to know their products well enough to try to fit your needs. Good kitchen professionals know the products they sell like the palm of their hand.
You need to be able to spot these knowledgeable salespeople in order to get the best value for your money. Here are a few ways you can tell if the person you’re talking to has the expertise to lead you to the room of your dreams.
Confidence and Enthusiasm: A sales person that knows his/her products should be confident that they can help you, and they should believe in what they are offering. If they’re uncertain and ignorant about their products, how can you place your confidence or enthusiasm with them as designer?
Communication Skills: Knowing ones product allows the professional to craft their product message to your unique situation. Make sure your salesperson is listening. They shouldn’t be giving you a canned sales pitch once they know more details about your situation. A knowledgeable salesperson should not only give examples of products that will work for you, but they should also explain why they will work.
The following are some questions a good salesperson should be able to answer:
- How is the product priced?
- What are the available colors, sizes and options?
- What are the cabinets made of?
- How long will delivery take?
- Is there a warranty?
- Is this product considered a green product?
Some design professionals are great “talkers,” but you should work with the one that makes you feel secure and excited about placing your kitchen project in their hands. Ask yourself, “Am I confident that this person will know what to do if a problem arises during my remodel?” Chances are, a designer with good product knowledge will have the expertise needed to make your remodel experience as smooth and pleasant as possible.
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