Akiko

"I have a lot of knowledge about my products and I am able to pass that knowledge on to my clients so they can make informed decisions about their purchases."

Describe the contribution you make to your store and to Macy's West.

Giving outstanding service and opening credit cards helps to bring more customers into the store. By treating customers well, I'm able to help Macy's maintain a positive image, which also helps bring more people here to shop.

You were recently recognized for your exceptional sales performance. Why do you enjoy selling and what makes it particularly rewarding on a daily basis?

I like adding new names to my client book. I know I keep my customers happy because sometimes when they come in and I'm not here, they will come back to make their purchase when I am here to help them.

What abilities or personal attributes make you a great salesperson?

I have a lot of knowledge about my products and I am able to pass that knowledge on to my clients so they can make informed decisions about their purchases. I always go one step beyond what the customers actually expects from me by trying to solve any problems they have and by giving them the best possible service.

What do you do to build relationships with customers and why is this important to you?

I am very customer-oriented. That keeps people coming back to me because I try to build relationships with them beyond salesperson and customer. I follow up with people in my client book so that I know I am helping them make their house a home. I am happy when they are happy.

Providing consistent customer service is an ongoing challenge. How does your personal contribution and passion for the customer make your store the best it can be every day?

You have to establish a trusting relationship with your customers. Because I follow up with my clients and have a good relationship with them, they trust me and depend on me for good service. They will keep coming back to the store to shop.

What are your trade secrets? Are there any "techniques" you use to help initiate and/or close a sale?

I enjoy coming to work everyday. By providing good customer service, I'm rewarding myself. When I see a customer leave our store with a smile on her face, I know that I have done my job well.

What is your most memorable sale?

I had one client come in to make a small purchase and no one else understood what she was looking for. I was able to talk with her and help her find the product that she was searching for. I added her to my client book and later found out that she has five houses for which she buys kitchen items. We still talk regularly, so the relationship keeps growing and she is consistently happy with her purchases.