Our Shutters Speak for Themselves: 8 Pain Points We’re Skipping
As a big DIYer, I’ve been on both sides of the in-home sales appointment (both as customer and sales rep), and I always suspected there was a better way of doing business. That’s what we’re striving to do. The traditional in-home sales appointment often has several pain points that can make it uncomfortable or frustrating for customers. Here are some of the worst aspects:
High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Many customers find that these appointments can feel aggressive, with sales reps pushing hard for a commitment on the spot (or with annoying “follow-up” calls that no one asked for). This pressure can make customers uncomfortable and feel rushed into a decision.
Lengthy Appointment Times: These appointments often last much longer than expected, with some stretching over an hour as reps go through detailed product pitches, claims of how “their” companies are different, measuring processes, financing options, and upsells. For busy customers, this can feel like a significant inconvenience.
Opaque Pricing: Traditional in-home sales appointments sometimes involve opaque pricing structures, where the final quote isn’t transparent or feels arbitrary. Reps may not give a clear breakdown, leaving customers unsure of what they’re really paying for. Sloppy hand-written quotes are often added into the mix.
Awkward Social Dynamic: Inviting a stranger into the home for a sales pitch can feel uncomfortable, especially when the person stays for a long time or uses tactics to build rapport that feel insincere. For some, the in-home setting amplifies this discomfort.
Confusing or Overwhelming Information: Sales reps may overwhelm customers with technical jargon, detailed product specs, or multiple up-charges, which can lead to confusion rather than clarity.
Limited Time to Compare: Many traditional sales reps try to create a sense of urgency, suggesting that the price or promotion is only available during the visit or “end of the month.” This tactic discourages customers from taking time to compare options, adding pressure to make a quick decision.
Unexpected Additional Costs: Some sales appointments lead to unexpected costs or surprise fees, which may be added later in the process. This lack of transparency can make customers feel misled.
Distrust of Sales Tactics: Many people today are skeptical of traditional sales tactics, especially if they feel they’re being "sold" rather than guided. This distrust can taint the whole experience, leading to a sense that the rep is prioritizing the sale over the customer’s actual needs.
These pain points are some of the reasons why we’re encouraging a shift towards buying from companies with transparent pricing, which allows for more control and convenience.