If there’s one profession in fashion where emotional intelligence is paramount, it’s this one. Far from clichés, sales consultants embody the liveliest and perhaps most human face of this huge industry. To paint a multi-faceted portrait of this hands-on profession, FashionUnited spoke to those who see sales as a place for personal growth and specialized expertise.
After our conversation with Lea Sibonisales consultant for luxury brand The Row, and Mathilde Robard from the concept store Center Commercial, we meet Ruven Taieb, manager of the Rendel Records boutique in Paris.
How do you describe your job?
When you work at Rendel, you are both a consultant for our customers and a brand ambassador. You listen to them in order to offer solutions tailored to their wishes and personality. The founders rely on us to represent this family-run company and to convey all of its specialist knowledge.
What was your first job in sales like?
My first sales job was in clothing. I attended fashion school and worked part-time as a consultant for a French suit brand.
Do you have fond memories of your first sales interview?
Always a bit stressful! Nothing replaces practical experience for training and development.
What is the best advice a manager or mentor gave you early in your career?
My father once told me: “You already have the no. We want the yes.” This is a sentence that stays with me to this day: dare, move forward and stand out.
What gets you going in the morning?
The challenge. Every day is a new opportunity to get better with my team and pass this energy on to customers. You can immediately feel a good atmosphere in the boutique.
What does the ‘joy of selling’ look like?
The human contact. Exchange ideas, discover shared passions, create a real connection. If a customer feels comfortable, trusts us and leaves satisfied, then everything makes sense.
What is the most memorable sale you have ever completed?
During the Rendel Café pop-up, a customer bought pairs for everyone in the boutique – like a round at the bar – even though he didn’t know anyone. There were more than 15 articles. An incredible moment.
Do you have any favorite customers?
Yes, of course. The regular customers with whom we build a real relationship, but also simply the respectful customers. A hello and a goodbye mean a lot.
What technical skill have you honed the most over the years?
Product knowledge: manufacturing, materials, screws… This is essential to building real credibility and trust.
What qualities are you most proud of?
Interpersonal skills and organization. Being able to build connections while running a structured boutique is crucial.
How do you train your eyes?
Constantly observing: faces, complexions, styles. It is also important to stay connected to fashion and culture in order to always be able to offer something appropriate and current.
What is unexpected about this job?
People often think that selling is just about selling a product. In reality, it’s mostly about understanding a person. There is real work of listening, psychology and precision behind every piece of advice. A good consultant doesn’t sell, he/she creates an experience and a lasting relationship.
This interview was conducted in writing.
This article was created using digital tools translated.
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